The struggle is real when it comes to navigating the challenges of parenthood while keeping your living space somewhat presentable. Don’t despair though; these real-life homes with children will show you how to master the art of chic family living.
Functional nooks
![squarerooms make room singapore play area kids children toys wallpaper stairs](https://squarerooms.com.sg/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Make-Room-2.jpg)
Design by Make Room Singapore
In this family area, the awkward space under the stairs is put to good use as a welcoming play nook.
Friendly curves
![squarerooms free space intent fsi dining table curved wood chairs orange bright colourful](https://squarerooms.com.sg/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/FSI.jpg)
Design by Free Space Intent
Rounded details on furniture and fixtures will not only minimise accidental bumps on the heads of active tots, these curved edges carry a chic aesthetic as well.
Strategic storage
![squarerooms styled by pt priscilla tan dining room kids play area storage vertical cute pastel blue white pink](https://squarerooms.com.sg/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Styled-by-PT.jpg)
Design by STYLEDBYPT
Don’t let your floor be overtaken by piles of schoolbags and books—use a pegboard to encourage the smart use of vertical storage.
Fuss-free configurations
![squarerooms studio 44 fortyfour blue wall cosy floor cushions child toddler pastel](https://squarerooms.com.sg/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/S44.jpg)
Design by Studio FortyFour
Low-rise cushioned seats with movable backrests from customised furniture retailer Blafink provide a fun and configurable alternative to sofas. Opt for the Aquaclean technology fabric treatment that only requires water to remove all types of stains.
Smart zoning
![squarerooms kdot associates minimalist home interior grey monochromatic modern living room dining](https://squarerooms.com.sg/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/P58-102B-Bidadari-5.jpg)
Design by KDOT Associates
The shared living, dining and kitchen zones of this HDB unit enjoy a fluid connection to the semi-open-concept playroom, which was previously a bedroom. This allows the homeowners to cast a watchful eye on their little ones, even while multitasking in the kitchen.
Multi-purpose furniture
![squarerooms styled by pt priscilla tan living room pastel cute cosy feminine blue pink pastel](https://squarerooms.com.sg/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Styled-by-PT-2.jpg)
Design by STYLEDBYPT
Interior stylist Priscilla Tan from STYLEDBYPT says: “Go with furniture that can double as storage. For instance, a round coffee table with a flat top and deep storage for playtime and stashing toys, or a sofa with storage for hiding books and toys away after play.”
Neat attachments
![squarerooms Make Room singapore living area green couch sofa bookshelf storage grey](https://squarerooms.com.sg/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Make-Room1.jpg)
Design by Make Room Singapore
Be sure to secure tall pieces like bookcases firmly to the wall if you have young kids at home who like to climb.
This post was adapted from an article originally published in the August 2021 issue of SquareRooms.