How to Create a Small Space Playroom
Interior Stylist, Magdalene Liacopoulos from The Bebe Style Co. is here to share her advice for putting together a children’s playroom when working with limited space.
It doesn’t matter if you’re living in an apartment with kids or simply don’t want to give up your entire home to toddler toys, you’ve come to the right place.
The truth is, you don’t need a ton of square feet when it comes to maximizing your child’s opportunity for fun and learning.
By utilizing wall real estate, choosing clever storage solutions and opting for multi-use toys, you can easily create a small space playroom!
In this guide we’ll go over:
- Space-saving playroom toy storage tips & solutions
- Why you need to consider your playroom play zones
- The #1 must-have playroom essential
Scroll down to learn more!
Space-saving playroom toy storage solutions & tips
Floor space is valuable real estate, and for this reason, it’s important to make maximum use of your walls—the good news is that the possibilities are endless.
Tip#1: Invest in custom cabinetry
Consider built-in shelving. Yes, it’s an investment, and for this reason, I highly recommend choosing a design that suits the general feel and style of your home. Built-in shelving means that toys, books and the like have a home. Bringing in accessories like storage bins to custom cabinetry will help keep things organized and neat.
Pehr Pom Pom Storage Bin
$46
Available in more colors
Tip #2: Choose versatile shelving units
Bookshelves don’t need to just hold books! Try using them to hold blocks, craft supplies, or plush toys. If you’re someone who knows they like to hide their mess, you might even want to consider a credenza with sliding doors that shut.
Nico & Yeye Minimo Modern Kids Bookshelf
$358
Available in more colors
Nico & Yeye Lukka Modern Kids Credenza Console – Walnut
$1,848
Available in more colors
Babyletto Presto Acrylic Bookcase Cart
$299
Tip #3 Fall in love with storage bins
Unfortunately, there is nowhere to hide in a small space, which is why sufficient storage is another important one to add to the shopping list. You’ll need organizers and baskets like the Lorena Canals Woody Basket to help manage toys and keep organized.
A small space can get overcrowded easily, so I will always recommend having some of the toys stowed away in tubs, and replacing them in and out of the playroom regularly. As a bonus, this will also keep things stimulating for your child.
Lorena Canals Woody Basket
$55
Available in more colors
Nico & Yeye Toy Box Chest on Casters
$168
Available in more colors
Pehr Happy Days Hamper
$72
Tip #4: Explore wall mounted bookshelves and dress up racks
If you aren’t quite ready to commit to something tailor-made, then at the very least I would suggest a bookshelf that can be fixed to the wall and positioned within reach for your child to access.
My go-to for small spaces is the Ubabub Booksee wall bookshelf set. The modern acrylic design makes for a streamlined look, and in a small space you want to minimize bulky and fussy additions. I also love the Olli Ella Pollie Shelf because you can hang dress-up clothes from it, use it for a roll of art paper or hang craft projects from it.
Ubabub Booksee Wall Bookshelf Set
$199
Set of 2
Olli Ella Pollie Shelf
$39.90
Why you need to consider your playroom play zones
When working within a small perimeter, it’s important to consider how the room will be used. Think about your child’s preferences, the available space, and what will comfortably work within the playroom.
With this information in mind, plan how you will utilize your walls – map out and establish your play areas.
Ideas include:
- Reading zone
- Arts & crafts zone
- Indoor active play zone (a soft mat!)
- Block/ Building zone
Keep scrolling to see some of my favorite suggestions.
For block/car play….
The genius double-sided play rugs from Ruggish make small spaces super useful! When it’s not adding style to your tot’s room, it can be flipped over and used as an engaging play scene to build blocks, race cars and more!
Ruggish Double-Sided Cali Play Rug
$199
Available in more colors and designs
For active & reading play….
Toki Mats Grid Playmat w/ Organic Insert
Ranging from $195 to $305
Available in more prints
For arts & crafts play…
Olli Ella Pollie Shelf
$39.90
For educational fun…
Mushie Feelings Poster
Ranging from $22 to $28
Raccoon Society Notable Animals in Literature Poster
$25
For imaginative play/reading…
Babai Play Tent
$129.99
Available in more colors
The #1 must-have playroom essential
Furniture and accessories can take up valuable space, which why it’s important to have a list in mind and be selective with your choices. With that being said, one should never sacrifice seating!
Incredibly versatile, play tables allow kids a space to craft, read, assemble, rest and eat! Below are my top picks!
Lily & River Creator Table
$299.95
EXCLUSIVE
Nico & Yeye Poco Table – Walnut
$361
Available in more colors
PlanToys Round Table
$120
The Bebe Style Co. is a nursery, toddler and children’s room interior styling service. Visit www.thebebestyleco.com
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