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It’s well known that a child’s physical environment can have a profound effect on how he or she develops into adulthood. So then it goes without saying that your playroom may be one of the most important rooms in your house. At least that’s what Denise Davies of D2 Interieurs and Karri Bowen-Poole of Smart Playrooms think, leading to their decision to join forces last year to found Smart D2 Playrooms; the duo focuses on designing well-thought-out, educational play spaces for high-end commercial and residential interiors. “The playroom should be a special place where a kid can create, pretend, and have fun,” Davies says. Smart D2 Playrooms delivers on this promise, creating whimsical, aesthetically appealing spaces that include rock-climbing walls, monkey bars, playhouses, and foam pits, just to name a few attractions. Upon the company’s launch of its first online retail store, ED asked the pair to share their tips on what every playroom needs. Get creative and design away!
1
Use Bold Colors and Patterns
“When choosing colors, we always consider the size of the room and the amount of natural light,” Davies says. “We love to add a burst of color to the floor by choosing a rug that is bold and bright. These Flor carpet tiles are perfect, as they can help kids learn about patterns, provide a safe and comfortable area for floor play, and bring harmony and balance to the color scheme.”
2
Smart D2 Playrooms Monkey Bars Add Some Physical Play Inside
2
Smart D2 Playrooms Monkey Bars Add Some Physical Play Inside
“Children love to move, climb, jump, and swing,” Bowen-Poole says. “So don’t make these activities weather-dependent, especially if you live in the Northeast or Northwest. Instead, design a physical play space indoors that kids can use every day.”
3
Blu Dot Choose Modern Furnishings
3
Blu Dot Choose Modern Furnishings
“Children need seating to work on puzzles, do art projects, play games, and relax in,” Davies says. “We love these stylish, modern lounge chairs that are completely upholstered from top to bottom. They are super comfortable and cool-looking.”
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4
Organize the Toys and Materials
“Organization is always one of our top priorities in the playroom!” Bowen-Poole says. “The art area is often overflowing with all types of materials in different shapes and sizes, which can make it a struggle to organize. We love adding wall storage, such as this large pegboard, so it’s easy to store things while also keeping them within reach.”
5
Muuto You Can Never Have Too Many Storage Bins
5
Muuto You Can Never Have Too Many Storage Bins
“We love using these Muuto bins for toy storage,” Davies says. “They’re cool and modern,and they have texture. Parents love the look, and kids love the feel and ease of use. Added bonus: They are a felt material made of recycled-plastic-bottle fibers.”
6
Add a Swing!
“Every playroom needs a swing!” Bowen-Poole says. “It’s an activity that kids can really enjoy by themselves. Swinging also helps with sensory integration by stimulating the senses and helping kids to focus, balance, and control their muscles.”
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7
Smart D2 Playrooms Neon Signs Make It Bright
7
Smart D2 Playrooms Neon Signs Make It Bright
“Good lighting is important in a playroom, because lighting choices can create a safe, comfortable environment for kids,” Davies says. “We love bright lighting over the art and Lego tables, neon signs on the walls, and dimmers inside playhouses and forts.”
8
Use the Walls for Climbing...
“Playroom walls can be used for decor but also for an activity,” Bowen-Poole says. “We love adding rock-wall panels as well as our rock-climbing holds to bring a burst of color to the room, while at the same time strengthening gross- and fine-motor movements.”
9
Smart D2 Playrooms Wall Decals ...And Decorate Them, Too
9
Smart D2 Playrooms Wall Decals ...And Decorate Them, Too
“We have partnered withBilly the Artistand Allyson Monsoon Photographyto create custom, one-of-a-kind playroom decor,” Davies says. “Our decals give a punch of interest and color to the walls while also planting the seeds of a deep love for and appreciation of art.”
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10
Smart D2 Playrooms Floor Mats Use Soft Mats for Flooring
“In addition to providing a safe landing spot for climbers, our fitness carpets encourage a variety of gymnastic andyoga movements, which can increase flexibility, strength, balance, and coordination,” Davies says.
“Most homes and playrooms are filled with toys that kids truly have no interest in!” Bowen-Poole says. “To evaluate a toy, ask yourself, Is it open-ended? Open-ended toys can be used in more than one way, which is what keeps imaginative and creative children engaged.”
12
When All Else Fails...Use Your Garage
“My one-car garage was just being used to store bikes and other belongings,” Bowen-Poole says. “So I customized the design and layout to the ages and interests of my family. I created a ‘ninja warrior’ circuit—a rock wall, monkey bars, trapeze, and rings—a sleepover nook in the loft space, open space for yoga and Pilates and weight lifting, a punching bag for online boxing classes, and hooks on the ceiling to add a swing for my 11-year-old!”
Parker Bowie Larson
Style Director, ELLE Decor
Parker Bowie Larson is the Style Director for ELLE Decor, covering everything interior design-related ranging from tabletop to furniture to kitchen and bath, and has previously worked for Architectural Digest and Cottage Living.
