As a professional decorator and mother of two, I have had a lot of experience marrying style with practicality when it comes to having kids in the home.
I find clients with children (and pets) are the most discerning and demanding when it comes to functional spaces - and delivering on budget. Whether kids are in their terrible twos or the awkward and clumsy adolescent stage, there's bound to be an element of destruction.
Here are my top five decorating tips to help a growing family keep their home functional, yet stylish and cool.
1) Choose Wood Over Glass Tables
Let's face it, no matter how many times you spray and wipe that glass surface clean, you'll discover little fingerprints and juice ring stains on it faster than you can say bedtime! To add more interest, find a cool looking reclaimed and distressed piece with an interesting story behind it. Also, look for rounded tables rather than those with sharp, square edges that kids can run into.
2) Silk and Slobber is a Shame
Save the silk draperies for rooms that don't see much kid action. Think good quality, high double rub count fabric that’s easy to clean and fade resistant.
3) Kid-Proof Accessorizing
The first rule of thumb (that every mom knows) is to keep the breakables up high and out of reach. Another way to prevent your unique items from being in the line of fire is to create more interest on the walls, so there’s less need to put things on tables. Get your kids interested in art by framing and hanging their creations too.
4) Out-of-Sight Storage
Incorporate storage-functioning furniture. Several ottomans or cubes are stylish and practical pieces that serve as occasional tables or extra seating, in addition to storage compartments. Cabinetry is also great for cargo space. Closed cabinets are ideal for storing and hiding kids toys, but if you prefer open shelving, use decorative boxes or baskets for toys and place them on the lower shelves for a chic look that’s easily accessible to kids.
5) Be in the Smart Seat
Where there’s upholstered furnishings, there’s inevitably going to be wear, tear and the odd spill. To help minimize evidence of the unsightly, first and foremost, I recommend choosing a fabric that’s washable (you’ll regret it otherwise). Fabrics that are textured, with a classic pattern rather than a smooth, solid style, look great and help hide wear better. When it comes to colours, avoid those are too light or too dark as they highlight any traces of accidents; a mid-toned colour will be your friend for life – or at least until the kids head off to college.
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