Creating a Multi-Functional Guest Room and Playroom: Tips from a Virtual Interior Designer
As a virtual interior designer, I'm often fielding questions from clients about how to tackle their design challenges. Recently, I turned to my Instagram followers to ask about their biggest design dilemmas. One issue stood out that many people deal with: how to create a guest room that doubles as a playroom without sacrificing style. In fact, we’ve had this same problem in our own house!
Here's my step-by-step guide to achieving a beautiful, functional space that serves both purposes seamlessly.
Assess Your Space
Start by assessing the available floor space. Determine the amount of space you can dedicate to the bed. Consider flexible sleeping options such as a murphy bed or a daybed. These space-saving solutions can easily transform the room from a child's play area to a comfortable guest room.
Storage Solutions
Storage is crucial in a dual-purpose room. Opt for a storage console with doors instead of drawers. This makes it easier to hide toys when guests are around, keeping the room looking tidy and stylish. Decorate the top of the console with chic decor pieces to elevate the space’s aesthetic for visitors.
Multi-Functional Furniture
Choose furniture that serves multiple purposes. Side tables that double as small dressers can provide additional drawer space for guests’ belongings or extra bedding. This approach not only maximizes functionality but also ensures that the room remains organized and welcoming.
Utilize Vertical Space
Take advantage of your wall height by installing tall bookcases. These can store books, toys, and supplies neatly. High shelves are ideal for items that need to be kept out of children's reach, while lower shelves can hold toys and books for easy access.
Creative Accents
Be creative with your accents. A children’s play table can be repurposed as an accent table for guests to use. This ensures that the furniture is not only functional but also versatile, adapting to the needs of both children and adults.
Maximize Storage Potential
Think outside the box when it comes to storage. Under-bed storage is perfect for keeping less frequently used items out of sight. Wall hooks can hold coats, bags, or hats, while storage benches and baskets can store toys and other essentials. Every bit of storage helps in maintaining a clutter-free environment.
Cozy It Up
Finally, add a touch of coziness with a large area rug to ground the space. A cohesive color palette ties the room together, making it inviting for both children and adults. Neutrals are an excellent base palette as they blend well with both adult decor and kid-friendly elements.
By following these tips, you can create a guest room and playroom that is both stylish and functional. Each piece of furniture and decor element should serve a purpose, ensuring that the room meets the needs of both guests and children without compromising on design.
If you have more design dilemmas, don’t hesitate to reach out at hello@functionalforyou.com or DM me on instagram @functionalforyou!
