Hey! I’m Sophie Shay
I’m a mom to two kiddos (and two rescue dogs), and the founder of Chez Shay Designs, a kids’ interior design studio based in Midtown Toronto.
After a decade in the corporate world, a pivotal moment inspired me to build something of my own — something meaningful, creative, and rooted in what matters most to families. Today, I’m on a mission to redefine what’s possible with kids' spaces, bringing together thoughtful design, child development, and elevated home interiors.
My approach blends Montessori principles with a fresh modern aesthetic and real-life practicality — creating child-led spaces that promote independence, movement and wonder.
Kids' spaces require more creative thinking than your average space.
From tackling tricky layouts, to doubling storage, to creating beautiful spaces that grow with your kids — I help you get it right the first time. And we have a lot of fun along the way!
Chez Shay (pronounced “shay shay”) means “House of Shay” in French — a name rooted in family, home & connection.
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Why Montessori?
I didn’t discover Montessori until my daughter was already a toddler. I studied it, implemented it, and fell in love.
I’ve since led workshops in Montessori schools and parent groups across the Greater Toronto Area (I’ve spoken to 250+ parents and counting!) and appeared on live television to share what I’ve learned.
Montessori is rooted in love, respect & curiosity.
It values beauty, which builds wonder and a love of learning, and order, which helps our kiddos find their bearings at home, and lays the foundation for trust, autonomy and self-mastery.
When a space is designed with Montessori principles, it brings ease, joy & fun to the whole family!
With gratitude,
My Montessori Home Design Principles
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Let me help you look into the crystal ball and get clarity on what types of play spaces will get more play, or what types of furniture will grow with your child.
If you need help bringing “Less is More” to life, let me guide you through a decluttering process and create new smart storage solutions at the start of the design process — so that everything has a home and spaces are easy to reset!
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Rooted in Montessori philosophy, a "Yes" space is essentially a safe environment that allows children freedom of movement and exploration.
Just imagine how many times we find ourselves saying "No" ("Don't touch!" or "Don't climb!") throughout the day.
Now, picture a space designed with the child in mind, where we can replace those frustrating "No's" with a sense of calm, trust, and self-directed play.
That's the power of a "Yes" space!
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When we find ways to fuel our kids’ expressed interests, amazing things happen with their learning and sense of self-mastery.
I take great care to understand your kids’ developmental needs and interests to create custom spaces that fuel their self-directed learning and play.
More creating, less entertaining.
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Little kids are immensely capable and want to be active and contributing participants in our everyday family life.
My spaces are designed to be accessible for your kid, which in turn empowers them to take care of themselves, of others, and of their environment.
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If aesthetics were ever a barrier to fully embracing your kids’ favourite colours, interests and individuality, I’m here to tell you: That’s where I come in!
With my eye for design, my goal is to create elevated kids’ spaces that your kids will love for years to come AND seamlessly integrate with the rest of your home’s aesthetics.
I promise: It’s going to be good.
Ready to transform your space?
Let’s create a space your whole family will love for years to come. Book a free call to learn how we can bring your vision to life.