Let’s be honest—parenthood is beautiful, but it can also turn your home into a chaotic playroom in a matter of minutes. If you’ve ever tripped over a pile of toy cars or questioned whether your living room will ever feel grown-up again, you’re not alone.
As a designer and a mum, I’ve lived the toy explosion and survived to style again (not always). And I’m here to tell you: you don’t have to choose between a home that feels calm and one that works for your kids.In fact, here’s how to create a stylish, soothing space without hiding your children (or their toys) away.
Rethink Toy Storage (Style + Function Can Coexist)
The key to maintaining calm is to contain the chaos. But instead of plastic bins that scream “playroom,” opt for design-led storage solutions that blend in with your décor.Here are a few of my favourites:
Woven baskets with lids
Stylish, breathable, and soft enough for little hands. This one from Etsy is handwoven and sustainable.
Storage ottomans or benches
Double-duty furniture that hides mess and offers extra seating.
Low sideboards
Great for zoning the room and hiding toys behind closed doors.
💡 Tip: Keep toy storage at your child’s eye level so they can help tidy up. Bonus: it empowers their (and yours) independence!
Designate ‘Zones’ in Shared Spaces
When your living room is also the playroom, boundaries are everything. Use rugs, lighting, or furniture layout to visually divide the room:
- A cosy rug + reading chair = adult sanctuary.
- A corner with toy baskets and a soft mat = play zone.
This helps keep the mess contained and reminds everyone where things go at the end of the day.
Keep the Palette Calm (Even if the Toys Aren’t)
Opt for a neutral or soft colour palette in your main spaces. Think warm whites, soft taupes, earthy greens. These tones help balance out the visual noise of colourful toys.
If you want to bring in personality, do it through art, cushions, or wall hangings that are easy to swap out, rather than big furniture pieces.
Choose Beautiful, Kid-Friendly Materials
You don’t need to sacrifice aesthetics for durability. Look for:
- Wipeable, stain-resistant fabrics (velvet is surprisingly durable!)
- Rounded furniture to avoid sharp corners
- Wood, rattan, and natural fibres for a calming, tactile look
Make Tidy-Up Time a Ritual
Kids love routine. That’s why making a simple 10-minute clean-up part of your evening rhythm can work so well—put on music, set a timer, and turn it into a game.
I’ll be honest: I struggle with this one. Sometimes I don’t even feel like asking them to tidy up or play the clean-up song. But I know it works, they do it at school, and it can be fun.
Lucie, mum of 2 from London:
“Our ‘tidy-up dance party’ before dinner helps reset the space and my sanity!”
Moodboard Inspo + 3D Visual
Need a visual boost? Here’s a calming family living room idea I designed that balances play and peace.
You Deserve a Beautiful Home (Even With Kids)
Creating a home that feels calm, stylish, and family-friendly is 100% possible—it just takes a bit of intentional design.
To begin, focus on one corner. One basket. One moodboard. After all, you don’t need perfection—just a space that feels like you again.
Ready for a Full Room Refresh?
If you’re dreaming of a peaceful, functional living space that works for your whole family, I’d love to help. Explore my 3D Virtual Design Services or grab my Small Living Room Masterclass (coming soon) to learn how to transform your space on your own terms.