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6 Favorite Family-Friendly Homes
Visit some fun, comfortable and stylish spaces that cater to all ages
Style and child-friendliness are not mutually exclusive. These homeowners have found clever ways to provide spaces for gathering, homework, artwork, kicking off muddy shoes, corralling jackets and toys and spending time together as a family. Here are six homes we've toured that work for all ages.
1. Pure style in Northern Virginia: Chalkboard paint on the refrigerator means mom can keep a running grocery list and schedule up top, while tots can draw whatever they like on the bottom.
More chalkboard paint, this time in green, covers the bottom of these closet doors, while a vintage floral wallpaper lion roams on top of it.
Across the room, the big boy bed also serves as a cozy daybed.
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More bedrooms that grow with your child
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More bedrooms that grow with your child
2. A photographer's home in Alabama: A good landing spot near the back door is essential when there are two kids under 10 around. This built-in provides places for coats, scarves, mittens, boots, knapsacks and sports equipment.
The home includes a bright playroom full of toys and soft places to laze around and read books.
An important element of family-friendly design is having a place of honor to hang all of that wonderful children's artwork.
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3. Cozy ranch renovation in vermont: The entry hallway/mudroom you can see peeking through on the right is a good place to ditch snowy clothes and mucky boots before entering the house. The formal living area is full of light and soft textures with nothing too precious for sticky little fingers.
The kitchen provides a spot for kiddos to keep parents company while they prepare dinner. It's also a great place to do homework.
An awkward box covering the stairs to the basement was covered with shelves for books and toys and a loft overhead, creating the ultimate secret fort for little ones.
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4. '50s ranch in Upstate New York: A family of four enjoys this well-organized and fun home. It has great places tucked all around for being creative, like this nice long table.
I had to throw this shot in because of those toys on the floor; remember those? I just realized my love of A-Frames started with that little house with the green roof.
Where would you go first if you were a tot who wanted to get cozy? The VW Bug-ish bed or the tipi?
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5. Chic San Francisco 3-story: This home proves that you can design with little ones in mind without losing style points. This playroom alcove is comfortable, current, and provides storage for stashing toys, movies and books.
A bright blue accent wall in this child's bedroom is so fresh and pleasing. Note that the major pieces like the rocker and shelves, and accessories like the pendant and rug are not babyish or themed. As this kid grows up, his room will grow with him. It could also easily transform into a guest room with a different bed and accessory editing.
Likewise this chic nursery could grow up in an instant. Lose the crib and the branches and it could serve any purpose with modern style.
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6. Colorful Victorian beach house in Delaware: This seasonal home is bursting with bright hues. It takes risks and makes the house fun for everyone.
Yup, literally F-U-N, in neon lights.
A cozy, pink, girly bedroom with a bay window is perfect for summer sleepovers for the owner's grandchildren.
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More:
Welcome to Camp Freckle!
Front Yard Family Room
Decluttering: Minimalism with Children
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More:
Welcome to Camp Freckle!
Front Yard Family Room
Decluttering: Minimalism with Children