10221061 – blond baby standing on a sofa in the living room
If you think that a kid-friendly home can’t incorporate pin-worthy style, we think that these 4 decor substitutions will help to change your mind!
One comment that a lot of homeowners make about the gorgeous interiors shown on HGTV, in magazines and found on Pinterest is that while these rooms are beautiful, they aren’t practical for families with small children. Between grubby, little fingers, smelly sports gear and fear of bumps, breaks and bruises, the thought seems to be that stylish, kid-friendly interiors are simply not possible.
Here are four ways to enjoy high style with low risk.
White (or light-coloured) Couches
Image Source: AKA Design
Over the last several seasons in interior decor, white, ecru and other very light-coloured couches have been at the centre of many living room designs, from coastal to farmhouse and traditional design. As lovely as these couches are, a lot of people who live with small children (and sometimes even adult partners) are convinced that they can never have a light-coloured couch – that it would be a recipe for disaster.
The Solution: Slip Covers and Stain Proofing
The secret to having white or light-coloured couches in a busy, kid-friendly home is 1) to choose a slip-covered couch and 2) to opt for stain guard treatments. If you go for both options and have your slipcovers treated with a stain guard, you’ll only have to spot clean when needed and wash them occasionally.
Beautiful Countertops
Image Source: Décor pad
Granite has a reputation for being easily stained or chipped, which when you consider how much these countertops cost, it makes them a big no-no for families with small children. However, that doesn’t mean that homes housing boisterous broods have to be relegated to ugly, builder-grade surfaces.
The Solution: Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops are beautiful, non-porous (which means spilled grape juice, or wine, will not stain) and can stand up to anything a busy family has to throw at them. Because quartz countertops are most often 93% natural stone and 7% resin binder and colour, the stone is scratch-resistant and harder than granite or marble.
Note: If you have your heart set on granite countertops, you’ll be pleased to know that new sealants are making them non-porous and much easier to clean.
Hardwood Flooring
Image Source: Fresh Home
Whether due the presence of kids, pets or both, there is often the fear that hardwood won’t stand up to the wear and tear caused by busy households. This is because even the hardest of hardwoods can be susceptible to scratches,dents and stains.
The Solution: Wood-look Tiles
Wood-look porcelain tiles will let you enjoy the beauty of hardwood flooring, but with the strength and durability of tile. They are tough, moisture resistant and very easy to maintain.
These tiles are available in a vast array of colours and patterns that accurately mimic the look of different wood species. You can even find tiles that have been textured to take on the look and feel of distressed flooring, such as hand scraped and wire brushed.
Beautifully Uncluttered Living Rooms
Image Source: Ana White
This last “item” may seem as mythical as a unicorn, but believe it or not, you really can have kids and an uncluttered living room at the same time.
The Solution: Secret Storage
Rather than interrupting your living room’s design with a cartoon character themed toy box, opt for stylish, multi-functional storage pieces that work with your decor. Try incorporating a console table or a bench fitted with storage baskets, a coffee table that hides a secret toy box.
Ask about creating a stylish, kid-friendly home
If you need help creating a style, yet kid-friendly home, be sure to visit the interior design and decor listings on eieihome.com. There you’ll find local interior design pros and Canadian furniture stores to help you achieve high style with low risk.
Republished with permission.
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