CHILDREN’S PLAYROOM, Scarsdale, NY: “Optimism” was the inspiration word given to me by the mom of the household for this children’s playroom design. This word and others she expressed like “creativity” and “imagination” stuck with me throughout the room’s development. The goal was to infuse the design with the girls’ favorite colors – pink and purple – and give the space some natural elements. The ethereal, painterly wallcovering is the focal point featured at each end of the room as well as the staircase that acts as the magical transformation to their special space. The goal was to create a children’s playroom that had staying power, so each selection had to be young and fun but not babyish. While adults are meant to feel comfortable in the space, for example in the wide swivel chair specifically for reading time with little ones, window benches or the table nook for snacks and crafts, this fantastical site fitted with sparkling twinkle lights is personalized for the two little girls of the family.
The room has three distinct playing zones; art and creation, reading and quiet time and the third for eating. The main art area is punctuated above with four custom purple wood veneer and iridescent double drum lights. Art tables are equipped with rolls of paper and legs that adjust as the girls grow. Artwork can be displayed with the lighted art gallery clips hanging above the art supply buckets that can be taken to the tables for projects then put away afterward. On the opposite wall is a custom magnetic dry erase white board with a personalized quote, “Never let anyone dull your sparkle.” Cubbies provide ample space for art supplies, books and crafts.
The reading and quiet area features an organic natural hanging chair with custom star cushion, beanbag chairs that can be adapted into chairs and a velvet swivel chair big enough for two. The tile rug delineates this section and allows for the replacement of single tiles should there ever be an accident that needs cleaning or replacing.
The walls of the table and built-in bench area are painted a soft purple fittingly named “Inspired” to further distinguish the alcove from the pink walls of the main playing area fittingly named “Peace and Happiness.” The linen fabric of the custom bench cushions is treated with a clear vinyl lamination so they can be wiped clean and its lively pattern mimics artistic scribbles a child might draw. Starry pillows complete this cheerful, hopeful haven.