Guest Picks: 20 Light and Airy Playroom Finds
Even though my basement renovation is still months away from completion, I can't help but think about possibilities for the playroom. It could be a glorious space for my little dude to build, imagine and create in, but it'll more likely be a place where I can store those Legoland mines that are forever popping up on the living room floor — wow, do those ever hurt. The play area will be open to the basement rec room, so I want it to have the same light and airy cottage vibe as the rest of the house.
Here are some of my favorite playroom picks. I went with shades of white, cream and gray and mixed in various natural materials. Toys and books will add subtle pops of color against the mostly neutral backdrop. Now all I have to do is save my pennies for these lovely items while I wait for my contractor — ahem, my hubby — to finish off that basement. — Sarah from Cozy Cottage Cute
Classic Playtime Deluxe Easel, Vanilla - $149.99 » A three-in-one art easel? This might keep the kids entertained long enough for me to finally make supper, or, you know, watch my favorite reality TV show.
3-piece Row House Set - $129 » Display these wooden row houses up on the wall, on a shelf for display or better yet, keep them accessible for the kids to play with. Now the only question is, who would love this cityscape more, Batman or Barbie?
Mason Activity Table - $529 » This play table has pretty much everything a play table should have: sturdy construction to withstand climbing and jumping, large drawers for toy storage, painted numbers just for fun and a distressed finish to help camouflage those inevitable dings and dents.
Owen Herringbone Jute Rug - $99 » This natural fiber rug is stylish and durable, and it's the perfect color to camouflage playground dust, dog fur and crushed Cheerios.
Wool Felt Animal Bookend - $55 » These felt animals are both functional and adorable. Maybe, just maybe, their stern looks will keep the children from misbehaving.
Flea Market Handle Back Chair, White - $99 » These new chairs from The Land of Nod have a charming, vintage feel to them. I'll take a grown-up size for my dining room too.
Jackson Blackout Panel, Gray - $69 » Subtle gray and white stripes add a little bit of interest and pattern without being too busy. These curtains are even versatile enough to move to another room in the house when it's time for a change.
Feathergrain Wood Bins - $12.99 » Use these wooden storage boxes for books, toys or craft supplies. Personalize them by tying simple chalkboard tags to the handles or adding inexpensive casters to the bottoms.
Three-Tier Flea Market Bin - $39 » Even an old collection of used crayons would look cute displayed in this handy storage caddy. It's also convenient to have a place to corral odds and ends that otherwise don't have a home.
Vintage Spool Play Table - $449 » Who wouldn't love a game of "Go Fish" gathered around this unique children's table? Pair it with a collection of white chairs in different styles for extra fun!
Kenwood Bookcase - $569 » I chose this bookcase because of its driftwood finish, planked sides and solid build. Although it has a high price tag, some furniture pieces are worth the investment. Once the kids outgrow it, you can steal it for your own office. Just don't tell anyone that that was the plan all along.
Crocodile Wooden Rocker - $149 » A ferocious twist on the traditional rocking horse, this crocodile is such a fun item to pass down to future generations!
Wire Hanging Globe - $49 » These hanging wire globes are light and unobtrusive. Even if you decide to hang several together, they still maintain that open and airy feel. You can even to use them for a geography lesson or two.
Alloy Numero Clock - $158 » The mismatched numbers on this quirky clock from Anthropologie make it an unexpected but fun choice for a playroom.
Beachcomber Sea Grass Basket, Round, Extra Large - $129 » Think of all the neon, flashing toys that could get hidden away in this beautiful basket. Extra large baskets are great for storing collections of items: stuffed animals, costumes, building blocks and even stinky sports equipment.
Sugarboo Designs Art Print Memory Board - $250 » I am in l-o-v-e love with this memo board. It has so many possibilities. Use it to display family photos, children's artwork, birthday cards, inspiration clippings from books and magazines, or lists of "fun" chores.
Natural Canvas Play or Prop Tent with Window by Ashley Gabby Designs - $126.52 » While I've seen many versions of play tents and tepees at various big-box stores, I love this handmade version from Etsy. I adore the side window, the tie-ups and the natural canvas material. This tent would be easy to dress up by adding some colorful fabric bunting, flags, ribbons or beads.
Wire Magazine Basket - $38 » What makes this wire storage basket different from others is that handle on top. Hang a few under a shelf with hooks, and the kids will be able to take them down and put them back as needed.
Weathered Art Frames - $30 » Wow, even stick people look fantastic displayed in these rustic frames. Use them to display your child's artwork, images from a favorite picture book or one-of-a-kind Etsy prints. The possibilities are endless.
Original Stem Mount Pendant, 200-White - $142 » Swap out your boring, builder-grade ceiling light with a crisp white farmhouse fixture. Add the metal cage for extra visual interest as well as protection from stray hockey pucks and sword fights.
Next: How to Turn Your Basement into a Kids' Playroom