Around the House

Most of you know by now that I also write for Apartment Therapy.  I write about kids' design there and one of the topics I love to explore is incorporating kids into the home.  We've been to many homes where the main living areas have absolutely no trace of the children that live there.  All of the toys and books are stored in a separate playroom, usually in the basement.  And while I marvel at the feat, I do not desire to live in such a home.

On the contrary, I love a home where every room is a family space.  A kitchen that has a cabinet devoted to kids' dishes; a family room with kids books and puzzles alongside shelter magazines; a bathroom with bath toys and spa candles.  I see nothing wrong with it.  In fact, that is the beauty of a family home.  The key is to buy good looking, quality pieces that don't need to be hidden in the basement, and to keep a reasonably tight rein on the quantity of toys.