We all remember our childhood homes. As moms we have the opportunity to create a space that is not only the backdrop but also part of the experiences. For kids it can go past just being pleasant to feeling magical.

When designing a space it is good to view it from the kid’s perspective, get on your knees and see how differently you see the space. It will influence the design, even where you hang the art to having built in stools at vanities and such. Think through the activities and functions, the kids will be performing in the space, reading corners, play area with storage for toys, nooks that can magically turn into anything from a castle to a grocery store.

Kids rooms don’t need to be over designed or thematic. In fact keeping a looser design, still well done, with interesting colors, textures, and patterns and of course scale creates an environment that has a positive emotional response. Its better to have a design that becomes a platform for your children’s imagination versus it laid out in a theme specifically. You can use interactive finishes that allow for input such as touch or white board, chalk board paint, or metal wainscot with magnets for display.

Design is a powerful tool that can be used in creating an amazing experience for your family.

Interior Motives, Inc was founded by Anita Lang, a member of American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) for over 17 years. She has been recognized with 24 ASID Design Excellence Awards over the past seven years. As well as the Designer of Distinction Award in 2008 for the work her firm does within the community. As an extension of her philosophy of the power of good design, IMI’s Inspire Foundation, a nonprofit 501(3)(C) corporation was created to benefit local community organizations as well as nurture young design talent. For more information, visit www.interiormotivesaz.com.