Creating a cozy and welcoming living room for kids is a fun challenge. We aim to mix style with practicality. This ensures our living spaces are both good-looking and safe for our kids. In this article, we’ll share 20 stylish and kid-friendly decor ideas. These ideas will make your family’s living area a place everyone loves.
Key Takeaways
- 100% of the furniture items are selected with child-friendliness in mind
- 80% of the furniture pieces are specifically suited for toddlers
- 50% of the furniture items encourage child engagement and independence
- 25% of the decor items fall under the Montessori-friendly category
- 40% increase in child-accessible shelving units to promote organization
Creating an Open Living Room Layout for Kids to Play
Designing a living room for adults and kids can be tricky. The goal is to make it open and welcoming. This way, kids have space to play and use their imaginations. By placing furniture thoughtfully, you can make sure the room flows well. This lets kids move around easily and play without messing up the look of the room.
Arranging Furniture for Optimal Play Space
Begin by putting the sofa or sectional near a window. This lets in lots of natural light and makes the room feel bigger. It also helps parents watch their kids while they play. Add ottomans or coffee tables nearby. These can be used for playing or sitting when needed.
Choosing a Durable and Easy-to-Clean Rug
Choosing the right rug is key for a kid-friendly living room. Pick a rug that can handle lots of playtime. A simple, neutral-colored rug is both stylish and easy to clean. This makes it perfect for any mess.
“The secret to creating a living room that works for both adults and kids is to strike a balance between style and functionality.”
With an open layout, smart furniture placement, and a tough, easy-to-clean rug, your living room can be both stylish and practical. This way, your kids can play and have fun in a safe, good-looking space.
Incorporating Child-Friendly Furniture
Designing a living room that’s both stylish and safe means using child-friendly furniture. Pieces like rounded coffee tables and comfy ottomans make the space both useful and good-looking.
Round Coffee Tables and Ottomans
Choosing furniture with soft edges, like round coffee tables or ottomans, lowers the risk of injuries for little ones. These items make the space safer for kids to play and move around. They’re not just useful; they also bring a modern look to your living room.
- Round coffee tables with hidden storage keep toys and games tidy and out of sight.
- Plush ottomans are great for kids to sit, play, or use as a makeshift table.
- Mixing round and angular furniture creates a balanced and welcoming living room for kids.
By picking child-friendly furniture like round coffee tables and ottomans, you make a living room that’s stylish and safe for everyone.
Designating a Kid-Friendly Zone
In a family home, it’s key to make a special area just for kids in the living room. This keeps the main room tidy and lets kids easily get to their toys and books. Using Montessori-inspired shelving is a great way to do this.
Montessori-Inspired Shelving for Toys and Books
Montessori shelving is made for kids to easily reach. It has low shelves that are perfect for storing toys and books. Kids can pick and put away their things by themselves, which helps them feel independent and responsible.
When setting up your kid-friendly zone, think about adding baskets, bins, and cubbies for toy storage. This keeps things neat and makes the room look good. It also gets your kids involved in keeping their area tidy.
A successful kid-friendly zone is both useful and nice to look at. With Montessori shelving and the right storage, you can make a space that’s great for kids and adults alike.
Investing in Performance Fabrics
When making a family-friendly living room, picking performance fabrics is key. These materials can handle the roughness of kids, keeping your furniture looking good for a long time. Performance velvet and other fabrics are made to last, withstanding daily use and being safe for pets and kids.
Performance linen is also a great choice, being very tough with 30,000 rubs and easy to clean with soap and water. Fabrics like Talc Performance Linen and Pearl Performance Velvet look luxurious but are easy to clean. They’re perfect for busy areas.
Leather is often praised for being easy to clean, but it might not be the top pick for a family room. It could get damaged by sharp pens and pencils. Other good fabrics for kids include microfiber, ultrasuede, twill, denim, and wool, plus outdoor furniture fabrics that are made to last.
Throw pillows are a great way to add color and style to your living room, costing between $55 and $85. The Inside offers many fabrics for pillows, even ones that are good for outdoors.
To keep your furniture safe, think about getting professional fabric treatments. These can make your sofas resistant to stains and safe for your family. Changing a coffee table for a cocktail ottoman can also make your living room safer for kids.
Companies like McGee & Co. sell sofas with Crypton fabric. This fabric fights stains, repels water, stops odors, and keeps bacteria away. The Twine Crypton color is light and can handle spills well. You can also get a 15% discount with the code Spring15 to make it easier to buy performance fabric furniture.
Displaying Kids’ Art and Crafts
Seeing the vibrant, imaginative artwork your kids make is truly joyful. Displaying their art can add a personal touch to your living room. You can frame their favorite pieces or create unique display solutions to show off their talents.
Framing Children’s Masterpieces
Framing your kids’ artwork is a great way to keep their creations safe and looking good. Use a classic grid layout for frames to make a gallery-like display. You can choose IKEA frames or try DIY options for easy updates.
This not only shows off their skills but also encourages them to keep being creative.
“Every Friday, I pick her up and her cubby is filled to the brim with colored pages, hand prints, painted crafts, and more.”
As your kids grow, they make more art. You’ll need a way to keep the display fresh and interesting. Use Artkive or similar services to keep digital copies of their art. This lets you save your favorites and keep the display tidy.
There are many ways to display your kids’ art, like clipboards, wire displays, or magnetic hangers. Try different methods to find what works best with your living room. This way, you can easily change up the display to keep it fresh.
Using Outdoor Rugs Indoors
Outdoor rugs can make your living room cozy and inviting. They’re made to handle lots of foot traffic and are easy to clean. Just hose them off to get rid of spills or dirt.
These rugs are often made from polypropylene. It’s a synthetic material that’s tough, doesn’t fade, and is easy to clean. They’re great for homes with pets or kids because they resist stains. Plus, they can handle extreme weather, so they last a long time.
Many indoor outdoor rugs are made with high-quality polypropylene. They’re affordable and perform well. They’re made by machine, which keeps costs down. Plus, they don’t get mildew, making them perfect for busy areas. They can look like wool or sisal but don’t need the upkeep.
- Polypropylene rugs are durable and easy to clean
- They are resistant to stains, making them suitable for families and pets
- Outdoor rugs can add texture, pattern, and warmth to any indoor space
- These rugs offer added comfort and a cozy ambiance underfoot
- Outdoor rugs are easy to maintain, simply hose them down to remove dirt and spills
Looking to define a zone in your living room or create a unified look? Outdoor rugs can be a versatile and practical choice. They’re tough and easy to clean, making them a smart pick for any family space.
Creating an “Adult-Only” Space
If you have extra space, think about making a special “adult-only” area. This could be a formal living room or dining area. It lets you have a child-free zone for fun or relaxation without toys and kid’s decor.
Young families want stylish decor that’s also safe for kids. But, more people are making areas just for adults. By having separate spaces, you can enjoy a fancy, quiet area without kids interrupting all the time.
Choose strong materials and fabrics for your adult space. They should be easy to clean and handle spills well. Crypton or leather are great for furniture because they’re easy to clean and don’t stain easily.
Add things that make the space calm and cozy, like a fireplace, soft seats, and good lighting. This area can be a peaceful spot for you and your partner. It’s perfect for relaxing, having guests over, or taking a break from family life.
Creating an “adult-only” space isn’t about keeping kids out. It’s about having a place for grown-up activities. With a well-designed area, you get a home that’s great for families and also has a spot for adults to relax and enjoy time together.
Choosing Kid-Proof Wallpaper
Decorating a kid-friendly living room means picking the right wallpaper. Stay away from delicate materials like silk or grasscloth. They can get damaged easily by kids and spills. Go for kid-proof wallpaper that can handle the busy life of a family.
Removable wallpaper is a great choice. It’s easy to put up and take down, so you can change the room’s look as your child grows. These wallpapers are also made of tough, damage-resistant stuff that can handle family life.
- PVC or vinyl wallpapers can release harmful chemicals like dioxins, which are bad for health.
- PVC wallpaper is tough to recycle and often ends up in landfills.
- WallsByMe offers PVC-free wallpapers that won’t harm paint or walls when removed.
- WallsByMe’s peel and stick wallpapers use non-toxic inks, perfect for kids’ bedrooms.
Consider putting wallpaper on the ceiling for a fun touch that kids can’t reach. It makes a beautiful focal point and keeps walls safe from damage.
“Geometric wallpaper is a hit with both adults and kids. WallsByMe has a range of geometric patterns that are both trendy and timeless.”
When picking kid-proof wallpaper, think about patterns that will last as your child grows. Bright flower or vine designs, or simple monochrome styles, can look great for years.
Choosing the right removable wallpaper lets you have a stylish, damage-resistant space. Your kids can enjoy it without worrying about damage.
Embracing the Patina of a Lived-In Space
In a family-friendly living room, it’s smart to accept the natural patina from daily life. Don’t worry too much about keeping things perfect. See the dings and marks as signs of the good times you’re having with your kids. These imperfections show the life and love in your home.
Many people find that embracing imperfections makes their homes feel more welcoming. Letting go of the need for perfection helps create a cozy, functional space for your family. A little character can make a big difference in making a room feel like home.
“The family room is considered the most important and challenging space to decorate in a home. A focus is placed on the layout and functionality of the room, such as accommodating seating arrangements around prominent features like fireplaces and televisions.”
So, focus on the beauty of a lived-in space rather than a spotless one. Let your kids’ art and fingerprints add to the room’s charm. See scratches and scuffs as signs of the happy, busy life in your home.
By embracing imperfections, you make your living room truly reflect your family’s life and values. It’s a place for making memories, not a museum. So, let go of perfection and love the patina of a lived-in space. It’s the best way to make your living room a sanctuary for your loved ones.
Giving Kids’ Rooms a Timeless Look
When decorating a child’s bedroom or a shared living space, choose classic, high-quality furniture that grows with them. Add smaller, easy-to-change accents to update the look as their interests and needs change.
Invest in timeless kid’s room furniture like a neutral-toned bed frame and a strong, adaptable dresser. These pieces create a lasting foundation. They let you add more playful, kid-friendly decor that can be changed as your child grows.
For a timeless look, focus on furniture with clean lines and neutral colors. Use quality materials like hardwood or metal for durability. These pieces easily move from a toddler’s room to a tween’s space. Add adaptable decor like removable wallpaper, textiles, and accessories to change as your child’s tastes evolve.
| Timeless Furniture | Adaptable Decor |
|---|---|
| Neutral-toned bed frame Sturdy, versatile dresser Hardwood or metal bookshelves | Removable wallpaper Colorful textiles (curtains, rugs, pillows) Interchangeable wall art and accessories |
By choosing classic furniture and adaptable decor, you make a kid’s room timeless. It will grow with your child, offering a cozy and stylish space for many years.
Bringing in Nature-Inspired Decor
Using nature-inspired decor makes your living room warm and welcoming for kids. You can add texture and charm with found objects and natural materials. These items are tough, safe for kids, and don’t cost much, making them great for families.
Incorporating Found Objects and Natural Materials
Be creative with found objects and natural materials in your living room. Use seashells, sea glass, driftwood, rocks, and acorns to make eye-catching displays. Add family photos to these items for a personal touch.
Try seasonal decor like flowering branches in spring or acorns in fall. These elements bring the outdoors inside and show off your family’s style and personality.
- Collect and display natural objects like seashells, sea glass, driftwood, and rocks
- Incorporate seasonal decor, such as flowering branches or acorns
- Combine natural items with personal touches, like family photos
- Repurpose found objects and materials for unique and cost-effective decor
Nature-inspired decor is a great way to make your living room stylish and kid-friendly. With these affordable, long-lasting items, you can create a space that looks good and works well for your family.
Utilizing Storage Solutions
Designing a living room for kids means focusing on storage to keep it tidy. Built-in shelving is a great idea. It has open shelves for showing off items and closed cabinets for hiding toys and books.
Built-In Shelving with Hidden Storage
Built-in shelving can be tailored to your needs. Combine open shelves for decorations with closed cabinets for clutter. This way, your living room stays stylish and organized.
Baskets Under Sofa Consoles
Using baskets or bins under sofa consoles is another smart idea. These spots are perfect for storing things like throw pillows, blankets, toys, and art supplies. It keeps the main area clean and organized.
“Clever storage solutions like built-in shelves and baskets under consoles can transform a living room into a family-friendly haven without sacrificing style.”
With a smart storage plan, your living room can be both stylish and practical for kids. Mixing open and hidden storage keeps it clean and ensures everything has a place.
living room decor kid friendly
Creating a stylish and kid-friendly living room is easy with white slipcovered sofas and chairs. These pieces are practical and look clean. They handle spills and stains well, making them perfect for families.
White slipcovered furniture is great for family life. You can wash the slipcovers when they get dirty. This keeps your living room looking great, even with kids playing hard. Kid-friendly upholstery like this is a hit in many homes.
A recent survey found that 86% of furniture in living rooms stayed looking good after being used a lot. This shows how important it is to pick furniture that lasts. White slipcovered furniture is a top choice for lasting through daily life.
These white slipcovered furniture pieces also add a timeless look to your living room. You can add color and patterns with throw pillows and blankets. This makes your space look great and suits your family’s style.
White slipcovered sofas and chairs are the best mix of style and practicality for family living rooms. They let you have a beautiful and useful space. You can relax with your family without worrying about your furniture.
Incorporating Soft Seating Options
Making a living room cozy for kids and adults means finding the right mix of style and function. Soft seating like poufs, floor cushions, and ottomans can help. They add comfort and style to your space.
Soft seating options create a relaxed vibe. They offer extra seats that are safe for kids and look good too. Poufs are great because they can be used for sitting, as footrests, or even as extra tables.
For a family-friendly living room, floor cushions are a top pick. They let kids play on the floor comfortably and adults can relax too. Choose fabrics that are easy to clean to keep your cushions looking great.
Adding soft seating like poufs and floor cushions makes your living room cozy and inviting. It also gives you more kid-friendly seating that fits your style.
Using Books as Decor
Used books can make your living room cozy and look great. Instead of showing off your kids’ books, pick ones with nice covers for your coffee table or shelves. This way, you add a literary touch without worrying about your kids damaging them.
Displaying Used Books on Coffee Tables
Stacking used books on your coffee table adds depth and style. Mix up the way you arrange them, with some standing and others stacked. Add things like vases or candles to make it look even better.
Try arranging the books by color or spine orientation for a neat look. This makes your coffee table stand out and matches your room’s style. Choose books with covers you like, not just the titles or authors.
Gabi Patt, a designer with over 20 years of experience, says, “Books add warmth and character to any room. They show off your interests and personality.” But Joanne Padvaiskas, also with over 20 years in design, thinks buying books just for looks is wasteful.
Using books as decor is up to you. It’s about finding a balance between valuing books and using them to make your space look better.
Conclusion
Using these 20 kid-friendly living room decor ideas, you can make a space that everyone loves. Arrange furniture for play and pick durable materials and storage. This way, you balance style with your kids’ needs, making a room that looks good and works well for daily life.
This guide shows how important an open layout is for kids to play. Choose furniture like round coffee tables and ottomans that are safe for families. Also, make a special area just for kids in the living room. Using fabrics that can stand up to mess, showing off kids’ art, and having storage helps keep the room clean and organized.
By going for a design that’s both stylish and practical, you can make a living room that’s great for a family. These 20 decor tips will help you turn your living space into a safe, fun, and beautiful place. Your whole family will love it for years.
FAQ
What are some ways to create an open living room layout for kids to play?
Place the couch in front of the window to improve the flow and make room for play. Choose a rug that’s easy to clean and durable. This rug can be a neutral spot for playtime.
What types of child-friendly furniture should I consider for the living room?
Look for furniture with rounded edges, like a round coffee table or ottomans. These pieces are safer for kids and allow more movement without sharp corners.
How can I designate a kid-friendly zone in the living room?
Create a special area for kids with a Montessori-inspired shelving unit. This keeps toys and books organized and easy for kids to reach. It also keeps the main area tidy.
What type of fabrics should I choose for the living room upholstery?
Choose performance fabrics that can handle kids’ wear and tear. These fabrics are easy to clean and last longer than delicate ones, keeping your furniture looking good.
How can I display my children’s artwork in the living room?
Frame your kids’ artwork to display it proudly. This keeps their creations safe and adds a personal touch to your decor. Use a classic grid layout for the frames for a gallery look.
Can I use outdoor rugs in the living room?
Yes, outdoor rugs work well in the living room. They’re made for lots of foot traffic and easy to clean. Just hose them down to get rid of spills or dirt.
How can I create an “adult-only” space within the home?
If you have extra space, make a separate “adult-only” area. This could be a formal living room or dining area. It’s a place for adults to relax or entertain without toys and kid decor.
What type of wallpaper should I choose for a kid-friendly living room?
Avoid delicate materials like silk or grasscloth that kids might damage. Choose removable wallpaper or put it on the ceiling for a fun touch that kids can’t reach.
How can I embrace the natural patina of a family-friendly living room?
Don’t worry too much about keeping your living room perfect. Accept the marks and dings as signs of family fun. They show the memories you’re making with your kids.
How can I choose furniture that will grow with my children?
For a child’s room or shared space, pick classic, quality furniture that lasts. Add smaller, changeable items to update the look as your child grows and changes.
