Summertime is family reunion time, and an attic playroom gives the younger generation their own spot to get together. Having a special kid zone makes everyone feel welcome, and gives them something to do besides listening to the adults reminisce. (Read: Organizing a Custom Playroom That Inspires)
If you're planning to host a gathering this year, the ideal spot for an indoor kids hangout might be right over your nose!
Attic Playroom Safety Features
Because kids will come and go throughout the day, safety features are one of the first and most important things to think about. A pull-down ladder isn't safe for children. Unless the attic has direct access from a main floor, you'll need to build in a real staircase.
Windows should lock, and mechanisms that prevent raising windows more than a few inches are also a good idea. And don't forget about attic vent windows. If there's a balcony, as some attic spaces have, you'll also need to prevent access to it by bolting or otherwise securing the door. (Read: Summer Fun, Home Safety & Kids)
Attic Playroom Storage Ideas
Playrooms can become cluttered in a hurry. But with plenty of storage, you'll have room to tuck away toys, games, floor pillows, books, art supplies and everything else kids need to stay entertained. Built-ins are a great storage solution, and as Architecture Art Design recommends, their function can work for kids of different ages.
From book shelves and toy chests like the attic playroom above designed by InteriorDesignPro, should be easy for kids to access with safety closures as needed. Built-ins help prevent accidents because they're permanently anchored to the walls. You can also create storage under game tables and inside ottomans.
Durable Flooring for the Attic Playroom
Wherever kids are, stains are bound to follow. But with durable flooring, you can clean it up without leaving a trace. Vinyl is a great choice, as you can mop it and liquid spills won't soak in. It's also much softer than tile.
Carpeting is also soft underfoot, but thick carpet is a stain magnet. Shorter nap utility carpet is a better choice. And if you use carpet tiles, even the worst stain isn't a problem. You can remove one tile and replace it with a new one instead of living with a stain or replacing the whole floor.
Attic Playroom Activity Centers
Activity centers help kids coordinate and organize play. And Better Homes and Gardens also suggests using bright colors to inspire creativity. You can design one area with a durable table for arts and crafts projects, and another for board games.
Lots of oversize pillows on the floor give kids a place to relax and watch their favorite shows. For video game enthusiasts, bean bag chairs or special “gamer” seats, which sit directly on the floor with no legs, are ideal. And of course most older kids enjoy bigger games such as ping pong.
Nap Areas in the Attic Playroom
Even the most active kids need a nap once in a while. But you don't have to furnish the playroom with several beds to give them a place to catch some sleep. A few mattresses here and there along the walls gives them a spot, and you won't have to worry about anyone falling off a taller bed. With plenty of pillows, they also serve double duty as spots to sit and read.
Kids of all ages can easily become bored at grown-up functions, even when there are other kids around. And if it rains, the only place to be is inside. But when you convert attic space into a playroom, you give them a special zone where they can create memories all their own.
Are you hosting a family gathering this summer? How do you plan to keep the younger ones entertained? We would love for you to share your ideas!
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