An extra bedroom previously used as storage has been converted into a fun and whimsical play space for two children: a boy aged 2 ½ and a girl aged 11 months. To transform the room, Greenwich Play Founder and Chief Play Officer Courtney Gault says the parents and homeowners wanted the space to “feel happy, bright, gender neutral, and really work for the whole family.” Mission accomplished.
“We design each playroom with the child at the center,” says Gault. “They are the main client. Although each play space is personalized for the unique family, the steps we take are always geared toward improving the executive function for their children to make it easier to play independently.”
The space, which is approximately 150 square feet, was initially inspired by the rainbow wallpaper by Chasing Paper. There are five different areas within the space — a pretend play zone, a gross motor zone, a book nook, a crafts table, and a general play area.
“When we break the space out into zones, it helps direct a child’s play without the need of an adult guiding the way.”
— Greenwich Play Founder and Chief Play Officer Courtney Gault
She adds that they follow these steps to get started with any design:
- Organization: Have a designated spot for everything, which can help improve working memory.
- Labeling: Labels, color-coding, and pictorial signs can support memory and task completion.
- Focus: Designating a quiet area can help with focus and self-control.
- Flexibility: Rooms that can be rearranged easily can encourage cognitive flexibility.
- Accessibility: Having resources such as books, educational toys, and art supplies within reach can encourage independent learning and problem-solving.
“Our number one rule is to create a space that the primary user will understand and be able to use without adult supervision,” she says. “We like to say our spaces are a foundation and could work with any age, but the materials and design elements we often recommend are age appropriate.”
Zones and breaking up the space into different areas of play is essential for helping children to use designated spots for everything, to focus on various forms of play or quiet time, and more. “In order for children to make the most of play, it’s important that they understand what is expected of them,” says Gault. “When we break the space out into zones, it helps direct a child’s play without the need of an adult guiding the way.”
She says her favorite part of this design is the rainbow wall that was transformed into a rock wall by Cornerstone Construction. We (and the kids) couldn’t agree more.
Source List
Wallpaper, Chasing Paper
Magnet boards, Shelfology
Wall pads, Vant Panels
Table and chairs, West Elm
Related: 7 Landscaping Tips to Design a Gorgeous Westchester Garden
