Living Area KID APPROVED!!!

This room was intended to entertain three children. That's right, no need to re-read that, three kids. The number one priority for this space was TV and relaxation away from the main living area of the home. 

Second most important thing (to me número uno) was the look of the room. My goal is to look like we are living in a magazine at all times. This room is the first room you see when walking up to our third level where all our bedrooms and my small office space is..... I can't work in kid city. 

The best way to achieve a room that works for the family yet is still ascetically pleasing is start with a solid base, no baby stuff! What does that mean exactly? No kiddie furniture. All the furniture in this room is what I would consider casual adult furniture. The large dark sectional sofa not only defines the space but can fit a slew of kids or in my case our whole family! The color and fabric is kid friendly and the down filling is great for mom and dad. Let's face it though, it is a huge brown sofa! In comes my all time favorite thing, throw pillows..... Select stuffyou wouldn't   mind being torn to pieces or having anything a child could dream of adding too, for instance a lipstick piece of art on your cream colored pillow. 

I'll let you in on my secret when it comes to throw pillows and spaces with children as they can be rather costly for the good stuff. The pillow must be under $20. Best places to find those are Ikea (big cream pillows and down inserts). Local indoor markets (shabby chic burlap pillows purchased at The Barn) and HomeGoods. 

If your seating is dark lighten it up with pillows and throws. For this particular area I went with creams and burlap. Walls are painted Grey and the curtains are stark white (cotton).  All very washable I might add! 

For the remainder of the furniture everything in here is repurposed and Rustico Antique. All with closed storage for things like toys. I added baskets all tall and in burlap and wire or a similar color tone to hide away toys from the onlookers. There is also additional baskets with pillows to throw on the floor and kids blankets. All in the same color. Many were hand made by family members. 

Sophisticated wall hangings they can't reach really add the perfect touch. For instance in this room we have an antique Italian mirror that has monetary value hanging on the wall and the kiddos are none the weary.  

And last but not least a durable rug to protect the carpet. I chose a Sisal to go with the whole burlap and natural textures theme of the room. 

Can you see toys?!