Open plan living encourages social spaces, which can be divided into \u2018zones\u2019 by creating different areas for different functions. If keeping an eye on your kids is imperative, we would suggest open plan schemes that allow you to see their activity from all areas. The image of our Clapham, SW4<\/a> project demonstrates a great scheme where families can conduct several activities simultaneously.<\/p>\n We also found kitchen islands are a great way to not only supervise your children but also to get them involved in your multitasking. It\u2019s also important to think about what you want to use your kitchen island for; as this will probably be the only time you\u2019re facing the room. Lots of our clients opt to put their cooker and oven on the island, but you can also opt to keep it clutter free and use it for food prep.<\/p>\n Island seating is great for when your kids are a bit older, and want to get involved in cooking. Take a look at our Gallery<\/a> to check out some innovative island designs.<\/p>\n More space and room to accommodate all ages<\/strong><\/p>\n Kids need space, and it\u2019s safe to say they\u2019ll only get bigger! Extending out and really taking advantage of your local council guidelines will add square meters onto your property.<\/p>\n You can also add space in other ways, and use the re-design to get creative with storage. \u00a0Opt for lower storage for things you\u2019d like to keep in reach of the kids, and higher storage for things you\u2019d like to keep out. Our project in Stroud Green<\/a> demonstrates low storage options and shows you don\u2019t have to sacrifice much space to store away lots of clutter.<\/p>\n Consider higher storage points for the things you\u2019d like to keep out of reach. Vertical storage is great to keep things within easy access for your needs, but impossible for little hands!<\/p>\n How to have a children friendly space but not lose adult taste and d\u00e9cor:<\/strong><\/p>\n A common concern amongst parents is how to find the balance between making the space colorful and pleasing for the kids, while also keeping it tasteful for the adults. There a couple of options you can explore here, either via colour or materials.<\/p>\n In terms of colour, we suggest you go for fun vibrant colours that reflect your kid\u2019s energy but will be timeless. The scheme below worked well as it offers a pop of colour, but keeps the tasteful, minimalistic look.<\/p>\n Material is also an important consideration which was perfectly demonstrated by our clients in Highbury, N4<\/a>. They decided to opt for a Resin Floor which is soft and calming on the kids. They even admitted their kids love to lie with their cheeks flat to the floor in the morning to take advantage of the warmth from the underfloor heating!<\/p>\n We do offer an Interior Design Service where we have tons of experience in pleasing d\u00e9cor which is both child and adult friendly. Ask about our Interior Design Service for more details.<\/p>\n![\"open](\"http:\/\/www.buildteam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/02\/open-plan-1.jpg\")
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