It’s Cool to be Kind

CREATIVE SPACE

An inviting art space that kids love to use and keep tidy!

LOCATION: Toronto, Canada

THE KIDDOS: 5 and 3

FEATURES WE LOVE:

Arts & crafts hub
Artwork display
Reading nook
Music nook
Open & closed storage

“The kids love how easily they can access their books and supplies.

They have been using it every day after school!”

The Tricky Space

My clients had a beautiful, sunny nook on their main floor that had sat empty for three years. They just couldn’t figure out what to do with it.

Meanwhile, big sister was becoming quite the artist, while little brother loved reading and dancing. Without an intentional space for these activities, art supplies and paper had taken over the main floor.

At just 100 sq. ft., this nook is one of the first things you see when you walk into the home. It needed to integrate seamlessly with the rest of the main floor while also maximizing the flow and function for two kids.

The Transformation

We wanted something fun and inviting, but definitely not too kiddish. Warm neutrals with pops of bold jewel tones, retro-inspired details and kid-sized chairs that match the ones in the dining room make the space feel playful, polished and authentically them.

For a shared space, nailing down the layout was key. I planned around how two kids would actually use the room, creating a clear walkway around the art table with plenty of room to move, grab more supplies or set down an art caddy.

To maximize every inch, I created a cozy reading and music nook on one side and tucked an arts and crafts hub into a recessed spot on the other. Keeping paper, markers and scissors within easy reach gives the kids the independence to help themselves and take charge of their own creativity.

And because displaying kids’ artwork is a must, I created a simple art display where their 2D and 3D masterpieces can take centre stage — giving them a space to proudly show off what they’ve made.