It's important that everyone have a comfortable place to sit. Even though this is a room for kids, Mom needs a place to sit while reading books or helping them with a project.

I think it's really important to give kids storage that's functional and easy to use. If they can't use it, the toys end up being all over the room rather than put away.

This is where everyone hangs out now. Now someone can be cooking in the kitchen or hanging out in the family room while the kids are playing in the play area. They can see and interact with each other.

Giving them space to draw and color gives them room to be creative.

Even though this is a kid space, it had to be somewhat sophisticated. It's the first room you see when you enter the house, so it had to look good.

We try to take care of immediate needs. We give them what we call comfort kits, which have basic items they'll need like a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, combs and towels.