|
|
|
|
|
|
EXAMPLES THAT ILLUSTRATE "ASK THE PROS," an interview with Sandra Edwards, president, CHILDESIGN, in the February 2004 issue of HOME MAGAZINE:
[© CHILDESIGN. These images and the ideas expressed may only be used with permission in writing from CHILDESIGN.] Said Edwards, "Before choosing the color or style of a room, think about how your family will really live in it, and be honest about your expectations for your children's behavior." The question to ask is "What is the goal for our family and this home." The design, no matter how pretty, will not be successful unless it supports your particular family and how you actually live your lives. So, honesty about what you find permissible is crucial. For instance, children have a need for large motor activity. However, HOW that occurs will vary widely from one family to another. One family may allow space for riding toys indoors; another would be horrified at the very thought. Design can create possibilities; it can also communicate your limits to children. It is important to note, however, that unless you have access to daily outdoor physical play, in a yard or public park, for instance, then this gross motor activity should be built into the home environment somewhere.
"I encourage families to consider whole-house design and to use spaces and furniture that can adapt as your child grows." In CHILDESIGN's Design Demonstration homes, I apply many often-overlooked principles that you might keep in mind for your house: "Room solutions must work for both adults and children." The "KinderZeat" from Stokke USA adjusts to accommodate the entire family, see the counter below, and enables children to independently and comfortably join in at The Family Table, a concept CHILDESIGN advocates for strongly.
  Another chair that can adjust dramatically is the "Ambi" chair from Herman Miller. Designed as ergonomic office seating, it adjusts in seat height and depth and arm width so that a single chair can instantly adapt, with the light touch of a lever, to fit either a child or a parent.
  "Make sure storage items can be easily and safely taken out and put back." It can be simple: a basket "tells" children "Your things belong in here." By placing it low, it makes it possible for him to get the toys himself and to comply with a parents wish for a clean room. Limited choice is also key here. Cabinetry designed for offices - (R) from Techline Studio-is strong enough to hold blocks safely.
 
Photos: © CHILDESIGN, Photographer: Luis CazzanigaIn CHILDESIGN's Long Island Design Demo Project, below, Pier One cabinets provide ready-made storage solutions in this custom-designed loft structure.
In the Art Center (photo, L), a cabinet marketed as a nightstand holds paper and art supplies; its top is perfect "counter height" for young children. A cabinet (photo, R) with six canvas drawers provides ample storage to keep a Dramatic Play center well-stocked AND neat.
 "Invest in good-quality products and expert installation; it'll pay off later." The photos below document Union volunteers installing CHILDESIGN's Kansas City Project. Installation matters.
 Remember: it's often what you DON'T see that makes the difference.
"Use products in unexpected ways, like kitchen cabinets in a playroom."
"For family health and harmony, use products that are multifunctional and green, like cork flooring (insulating, antifungal, nonslip)." 
|
|
|
