Small Play Room Design Plan
When it comes to creating a play area in a small space, the challenge can be both exciting and daunting. Recently, I had the opportunity to help transform a tiny nook behind their living area into a charming playroom for their children. Let’s dive into the design process and explore some clever ideas for turning even the smallest areas into a magical play space.
Assessing the Space: Before the Transformation
The play area was a small nook tucked behind the living room sofa. It was an unfinished space with a couple of bookcases, a little bench, and a lot of untapped potential. The primary challenge was to create a functional and inviting play area without upgrading the existing furniture. This kind of project is all about making strategic, budget-friendly changes that pack a punch.
Creating a Vision: Designing the Mood Board
Once I have the vibe or vision for the space, I put together a mood board that highlights the key elements or concepts to enhance the space.
- Central Table and Fun Chairs: Placing a small, white table at the center of the room fills the space and provides a practical surface for activities. Adding kids’ chairs in a bright pop of color injects personality and invites children to sit and play.
- Subtle Yet Playful Wallpaper: The back wall can become a feature with a subtle patterned wallpaper. This adds visual interest without overwhelming the space, making the nook feel more intentional and finished.
- Youthful and Playful Rug: A rug with a fun, youthful pattern helps to ground the space. It adds comfort and defines the play area, making it distinct from the surrounding living room.
- Textured Lighting and Warm Accents: A wicker pendant light introduces texture and warmth, creating a cozy atmosphere. Repeating this natural texture with a wicker basket for toy storage ties the room together and adds functional elegance.
Implementing the Design: Key Changes
1. Central Table and Colorful Chairs
A central table acts as a versatile hub for various activities—be it drawing, puzzles, or games. Choosing a neutral table allows flexibility with color, while vibrant chairs add a playful touch. These chairs can reflect the hues found in toys and books so it all feels cohesive.
2. Making a Statement with Wallpaper
Wallpaper is a fantastic way to add personality to a small room without taking up any physical space. For this play nook, a subtle, patterned wallpaper on the back wall was suggested. It provides a backdrop that is interesting yet not too busy, enhancing the room’s aesthetics without overwhelming the small area.
3. A Rug to Ground the Space
Choosing the right rug is crucial in small play areas. It should be soft enough for kids to sit on but also easy to clean. A rug with a fun design can energize the space and tie together the colors of the room. In this case, I chose a rug with a playful pattern yet neutral enough to tie into the rest of the living area.
4. Adding Texture with a Pendant Light and Baskets
Lighting is often overlooked in small spaces, but it can dramatically change the ambiance. A wicker pendant light was selected to add texture and warmth, echoing the natural materials often found in children’s toys.
5. Organizing with Style
Clearing up the clutter is essential in a small space. By organizing books and toys into storage baskets and arranging them neatly on shelves, the room feels more spacious and orderly. Even small touches like arranging books by color can add a delightful, organized look.
Adding the Finishing Touches: Art and Personalization
To personalize the playroom, consider adding art or family photos to the side walls. This not only brings a personal touch but also makes the space feel complete. Depending on the surrounding living area’s style and colors, choose artwork that complements the overall design.
