Keeping it Funky and Family-Friendly
By Carrie Luteran
Keeping up a beautiful home is a challenge when you have an active family. Young children are so hard on the walls, floors and furniture that you might be tempted to wait until they go to college to decorate! But today’s technology has created durable housewares that can stand up to the heaviest use, all while looking great.
Here are some decorating ideas that can withstand even the most active kids and pets:
1. Buy durable rugs. Rugs made from synthetic fibers are the easiest to care for. They won’t absorb food and pet stains, so you can blot away any accidents. If you prefer natural materials in your home, try wool rugs. Steer clear of sisal or jute; they are easily stained and almost impossible to clean. If you have pets, pay attention to the pile of your rugs, as well; cut pile is much less likely to get caught and pulled by your animal’s nails than looped styles.
2. Stick with patterns. Whether it’s upholstery, curtains or rugs, patterns can hide a multitude of spills and smudges. There’s no need to be afraid of mixing multiple patterns in one room. Keep them all in the same color palette but vary the scale for a cohesive look.
3. Bring the outdoors in. Outdoor furnishings have come a long way. Check out the garden section in your favorite store for furniture and accessories that can be incorporated into your interiors. If it’s sturdy enough to stand up to the elements, it can stand up to your family! Many furniture retailers are now making sofas, sectionals and chairs in outdoor fabrics like Sunbrella. Spills bead right up on them, so you won’t have to watch the kids every second.
4. Make storage easy. Let’s be honest — kids’ toys are a constant source of clutter. When you’re setting up storage systems, make it as easy as possible to put things away. Try large bins or baskets for the big items, and a set of small drawers for those little Legos, puzzle pieces and craft supplies that are always underfoot. The simpler it is for your kids to clean up, the more likely they will actually do it.
5. Create a rotating artwork display. You want to display your kids’ masterpieces, but hanging them all over the fridge can look messy. Instead, set aside space on one wall to serve as a rotating art gallery. Hang some large cork boards there, or try several rows of curtain rods with clip rings. Let your children pick their best work to display. When they bring home new creations, it’s easy to swap them out.
6. Consider secondhand. Used furniture often comes with a few scratches and dents. While that may sound like a negative, it can bring peace of mind if you have kids or pets who are tough on their stuff. Since secondhand pieces are already a little brokenin, you won’t sweat it when the little ones add more “personality.” Always clean used items thoroughly and test painted finishes to be sure they don’t contain lead.
7. Use quality paint. Walls take a beating when you have an active family. You might be tempted to go with the cheap stuff and plan on repainting often, but using high quality paint will save you time and money in the long run. Talk to a paint expert at your local store about the most washable options.
8. Be realistic. The most important consideration when decorating your home is making it practical for your family. Light-colored upholstery and glass end tables may look beautiful on Pinterest, but they will be a constant source of worry in your home if you have little ones. Parenthood is enough of a challenge, so make your life a little easier by selecting furnishings that are no-fuss and – most importantly – safe for your kids. SWM
Carrie Luteran makes spaces totally functional and fab. She provides interior design and professional organizing services to the Syracuse area through her company, Pretty Neat. Learn more at prettyneatsolutions.com or call (315) 400-1966.
