Joyful & Purposeful Spaces for Kids

Designed with love & Montessori principles

As Seen on

Toronto kids playroom interior designer Sophie Shay posing with balloon letters spelling design studio name Chez Shay

kids’ spaces require more creative thinking than your average space

I’m Sophie Shay. I’m on a mission to open our minds to what’s possible with kids’ spaces and elevated home design.

My unique approach blends Montessori principles with a splash of fresh modern aesthetic and real life practicality. These spaces are child-centered and promote independence, movement & wonder.

When you’re in the messy middle of parenthood, thoughtful home design can feel impossible. But life is too precious to live β€œon hold” for another 10 or even 20 years.

Love the home and the season of life you’re in today!

Not just pretty spaces

  • Turning Tricky Spaces into Loved Spaces

    Need help reimagining your space to its full potential? I love turning tricky spaces into places the whole family can enjoy! It’s kind of my superpower.

  • Guided by Child Development Research

    Montessori places emphasis on the intentionally prepared environment. I believe in creating spaces where little bodies & minds feel seen, heard and free to move and explore.

  • Designed to Grow with Your Child

    Wish you could see into the future and get it done right the first time? Take the guesswork out! I create timeless spaces that grow with your child.

How to Work with Us

  • Midtown Toronto playroom designer

    Virtual e-Design

    Available where you are (worldwide)

    For families looking to maximize the flow and functionality of their kid’s space but are happy to shop and manage the setup themselves.

  • Forest Hill Toronto kids interior design

    Full Service Design

    Available in the Greater Toronto Area

    For families seeking a white glove experience from concept to full space transformation. Sit back, relax, and watch the magic unfold!

  • Rosedale Midtown interior design and custom build playrooms

    Full Service Design + Build

    Available in the Greater Toronto Area

    For families dreaming of a one-of-a-kind play structure in a fully custom playroom, we’ll handle everything from concept to construction.

  • "Sophie created a room beyond my wildest dreams. My seven year old said that it is the best basement in the entire universe. My husband goes down there every morning now to stretch and ride the bike. We find excuses to be downstairs together as a family. "

    Andrea, Toronto

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  • β€œMy kids could not be more thrilled with their new custom-built playroom that Sophie designed. Not only will it grow with them, but it is fun for all ages. My vision came to life with Sophie’s help and we couldn’t be happier!”

    Julia, Toronto

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  • β€œSophie was a dream to work with! She nailed the vision and made all of our needs and ideas come to life so quickly! The kids have immediately taken to the space, and it’s already inviting high quality play, space for homework, social gatherings and just as a family! I cannot recommend Sophie enough!”

    Jenna, Texas, USA

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  • β€œSophie took our underused basement and turned it into a beautiful play & sports area for our kids! Sophie has great ideas, is very responsive and any questions were answered with such care and detail. She went above and beyond.”

    Laura, Toronto

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  • "The new space is far more beautiful than we could've imagined and the kids love how easily they can access their books, supplies, etc. They have been using it every day after school! They love it so much they're even committed to keeping it tidy. Thank you so much!"

    Archana, Toronto

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Children's reading nook featuring diverse books celebrating Montessori and Diwali and science

Ready to Get Started?