Creating lasting memories for your child

New York loft designed by Resolution: 4 Architecture Photos by Martyn Thompson

 

Never under estimate the role your home plays on your children.  Our deepest memories come from the place we grew up. As children, we developed step by small step, and risks were taken because retreat to a safe place was possible. 

"Life begins well. It begins enclosed, protected, all warm in the bosom of the house". 

                                                                                                                             - Gatson Bachelard

The first view from a bedroom window, textures from a small vignette, patterns from a well used sofa or rug and cooking smells from the kitchen stay with us forever. The biggest tip I can give you is to make sure when you are decorating that you allow your ideas to be flexible. Let your home grow-up with your family. 

Four key tips to help create lasting memories for a child's lifetime:

Start introducing ideas for the home to ensure stimulating and relaxed environment for the whole family

Live  make the most of your shared spaces, fun places for everyday life, lounging and learning

Share celebrate your time together in the kitchen, around the table, and with family and friends

Nest bathing and sleeping, appreciate the daily rituals for a calm household environment 

It's Not Just Me Anymore!

The design-savvy crowd that you are I'm sure will make no sacrifices when it comes to your children. Consider opting for furniture that is tactile, colourful, nostalgic and fun. Tree bookcase by Design Artist; Early Rider bicycle by Strawberry Children's Toys; Eames Elephant by Vitra; Alphabet drawers by Kent and London; Mini Togo by Ligne Roset

I have been pondering about Valeria Lazareva's photos for sometime now. A few of my friends have had babies lately and I have watched them change over night. While I'm worrying about work, clothes, haircuts and not seeing my fiance or friends enough they are focused on one little being. 

It got me thinking how our view to our home changes when we have children. I believe what we buy for the home, how it is set up and the meaning of home all changes. Suddenly the home must become a place that needs to be set up where your child can grow, be safe, have stimulation and be a place they know they can always come too. Unlike my home which is set up for dinner parties, socialising, TV watching and listening to music. When purchasing products for the home it's no longer an Ikea impulse buy but pieces that reflect you and who you want your child to be. Whether it’s fashion, furniture or technology it's extensions of your own aesthetic preferences and keeping with your  home style.There are so many stylish options now for children. But I guess you need to make sure you have a balance between kid chic and a haven of fun. 

I would love to hear from you about how your idea of home has changed since you had kids. 

The Pink & Blue Project

OK I don't know about you but after seeing these pictures I think it's safe to say no more stereotyping when shopping for your child's bedroom. It's time to mix it up. I'm a big believer that our surroundings can play a big part in who we are and who we become. Oh I can here some of you now saying "well Amanda it is only colour?" Is it? However, I do have to say as little people they do understand how to collect. One of the key ingredients for displaying a collection is to stick to a certain colour or theme.

Jeongmee Yoon via Designboom.