Dream
by JODY GARLOCK photo LINDSAY BROWN
• This ethereal playroom is set up for daydreaming, make believing, and gazing at a starry sky; lounging on daybeds or a swing; coloring and crafting at a pint-size table. It’s a happy place for the littles when you’re deep in holiday prep, the big game is on, or the house is full of cousins who need to burn some energy.
PHOTO: (ROOM) MAX KIM-BEE; STYLING: JENNIFER CONDON
The ceiling in this over-the-garage playroom sets the mood for imaginative play. Midnight blue wallpaper marks the constellations. An iconic ball pendant (about 27 inches in diameter) by George Nelson serves as the moon (inexpensive paper versions would do the trick too). White walls brighten; carpet provides shoes-off softness and muffles sounds. For kid-friendly seating, go low. Daybeds— floor cushions paired with back cushions attached to the wall— allow comfy lounging or sitting with a book. “The nice thing about a kids room is you’re able to be a kid again,” designer Marina Hanisch says. “You can dream alongside them.” Her tip: Avoid going overboard on a theme to ensure the room ages well.
• Hanisch personalized each reading nook by using different fabrics, pillows, and art. The daybeds remind her of picnic blankets and, along with a toy campfire, play up the under-the-stars theme.
Shopping
Drop a few floor cushions, pull up a pouf, or go a step further with these kid-approved options for soft seating.
There are no wallflowers among these exuberant kids rooms. They’re crushing it with lively papers that welcome a rumpus.
PHOTOS: (1) SARAH ELLIOTT,
DESIGN: CHANGO & CO.; (2, 3) LAURA METZLER, SARAH HEBENSTREIT, REGAN BAKER DESIGN