Creative Living
from A-Z
In Partnership With
Home is where kids learn and discover— a place to nurture and shape their world.
Ahead, we asked 10 design-savvy parents to curate the coolest Walmart Kids products and share smart solutions for the littlest members of the family. Here’s to making kids’ spaces 100 percent more fun.
Words by Erin Cunningham
The Fitzgeralds
Portland, Oregon–based illustrator and calligrapher Joy Fitzgerald’s home functions like a blank canvas. A creative with a penchant for soft lines and neutral colors, she’s cultivated a space where she and her family—husband James and their kids, James, 5, and Lucie, almost 3—can work, play, and grow.
Abstract Shapes
A
Bed Heaven
B
Cozy Corner
C
A-Z
from
Living
Creative
"When you have a
blank canvas to work from, creative possibilities are open and endless. I'm drawn to neutrals because they endure through changes and provide a solid foundation to
build off of."
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Buy our first ever kids issue
Favorite Colors
F
Extraterrestrial Art
E
Dessert Vibes
D
Breegan Jane, a Los Angeles–based interior designer and HGTV star, is a pro at taking someone’s vision and bringing it to life. A single mom to Kingsley, 6, and Kensington, 4, she loves adding subliminal design elements that tie in life lessons. Rounding out her artistic interests, she also writes children’s books that connect kids with topics underrepresented in literature.
Breegan Family
“Quinn has a
curtain along her bottom bunk bed that she can close when she wants privacy. And yes, 7-year-olds want that! We made one with a simple retention pole, and I stitch-witched a colorful textile.”
Have an Imagination
H
Graphic Prints
G
Domino’s executive creative director, Kate Berry; her husband, Ian; and their 7-year- old daughter, Quinn, live in a New York City apartment filled with color, patterns, treasured items from different design eras, and a lot of plants (she’s our resident flora expert). For Berry, home is a space for her family to channel their creativity through art, music, cooking, and gardening.
The Berrys
Keep It Neat
K
Joyful Imagery
J
Industrial Details
I
Interior designer Saudah Saleem treats decorating for her children like working with a client: A big part of creating a space that reflects who they are is listening to them. Now that three of her kids are teenagers, the Baltimore-based mom of five knows exactly what to invest in for her son Samori, 7, and daughter Zaria, 5: items that are functional, stylish, and make their little hearts happy.
The Saleems
Nature Rules
N
Mondrian-Inspired
M
Little Touches
L
At the small Brooklyn apartment of Domino Kids editorial director Alex Redgrave and her husband, Grant, almost every corner has the potential to be a play zone for their 2-year-old son, Misha Moon. Woven poufs slide out from underneath the sofa, stools double as toddler-scale tables for keeping toys and books, and suncatchers cast rainbow patterns on the walls.
The Redgraves
“I start with a base of
sophisticated tones I love—lots of pale wood and natural materials, fun graphic wallpaper, and nubby neutrals—and then add pops of color they enjoy.”
Quiet Time
Q
Play With Purpose
P
Over the Rainbow
O
For Domino editor in chief Jessica Romm Perez, home is a place for her family to enjoy the things they love to do together—art, cooking, music, and having friends over. While their jam sessions are hilariously out of tune (think: guitar, piano, ukulele, and loud singing), she’s committed to creating a space where her daughter, Emilia, 10, and sons Nico, 6, and Theo, 2 ½, can explore their passions and feel empowered to create a world that inspires them to dream.
The Perezes
“We’ve filled their
space with photos of family, colorful art, and loads of books. They sometimes add to that with a picture they’ve drawn or something special they’ve built out of their toys.”
Thematic Accents
T
Stay Tidy
S
Retro Visuals
R
Photographer David A. Land says he and his husband, author Rumaan Alam, are there to help sons Simon, 10, and Xavier, 7, stay organized so they can just be kids. Their Brooklyn home is a creative paradise—a space that allows them to explore their interests and passions, from transportation and animals to space and mythology.
The Alam/Lands
Win-Win
W
Versatile Furniture
V
Unconventional Decor
U
Texas-based husband-and-wife design duo Brett and Kara Phillips have their hands full: Their three boys, Walker, 6, Grant, 5, and Hayes, 3, love to be in motion, whether it’s working on a puzzle, throwing a football, or playing with Legos. And they need a space that can keep up. Expert builders and decorators, Brett and Kara have built a home that is a mix of heirloom pieces witha story for the adults and plenty of washable or outdoor fabrics and storage pieces for the kids.
The Phillipses
“We do a lot of big
family paintings together. We’ll study different artists and their techniques, then we work on a piece. I think the constant creating
and exposure to art really stretches my kids’ imaginations.”
Zany Prints
Z
Yellow Statements
Y
X Marks the Spot
X
Maker, craft stylist, and author of Let’s Sew Together, Rubyellen Bratcher has one rule when it comes to her home: She only brings items into her Southern California space that make her and her family—which includes her husband, Ben, and their five daughters, True, 14, Brave, 13, Soul, 10, Glow, 9, and Red, almost 3—dance. A full house means tons of different personalities and preferences, which Bratcher caters to through artwork and thrifted items.
The Bratchers
Badge of Approval
Abstract Shapes
Bed Heaven
Cozy Corner
Click to Shop
Q
My home is often labeled as minimalistic, but I try to add pops of color that feel harmonious and are easy on the eyes. I love how this lamp features solid shapes instead of a busy pattern.
Abstract Shapes Shade with Ceramic Cloud Base by Drew Barrymore Flower Kids
Abstract Shapes
As my kids grow and their tastes change, we can easily swap out their bedspreads without having to find a different frame. I’m drawn to this wood and white design because it goes with anything.
Modern Platform Bed in
Cloud White by Drew Barrymore Flower Kids
Bed Heaven
I believe some of the richest creativity comes from a place of rest, so having things like a spacious working surface paired with cozy throw pillows and a consistent spot for their belongings is a must.
Table and Stool Set
by ACEssentials
Large Storage Basket
by BasinCo
Cloud Decorative Throw Pillow by Phantoscope
Cozy Corner
My kids have been through 20different favorite colors each since childhood, so I always start with a neutral base. That way, the adult gets a versatile and refined foundation without sacrificing interesting design choices, like crisp, bright-colored bedding or a polka dot floor lamp.
Rainbow Dots Shade with
Black Tripod Floor Lamp by Drew Barrymore Flower Kids
Rizo Geometric Duvet Set
by Your Zone
Favorite Colors
Find art that excites your kids. Currently, stars and outer space have captured both of my boys’ interests. Something as simple as this solar orbit photo is a great way to use art to spark conversation when they’re getting ready for bed at night.
Solar Orbit Print by Drew Barrymore Flower Kids
Extraterrestrial Art
A desert-inspired room is great because it’s not a traditional theme for kids. It’s also gender-neutral and has a timeless symbolism—strength, resilience, protection—that will forever be inspiring.
Prismatic Cactus Rug
by Mohawk Home
LED Cactus Night-Light
Dessert Vibes
A
B
C
Dessert Vibes
D
Extraterrestrial Art
E
Favorite Colors
F
Zany Prints
Z
Yellow Statements
Y
X Marks the Spot
X
Unconventional Decor
U
Versatile Furniture
V
Win-Win
W
Thematic Accents
T
Stay Tidy
S
Retro Visuals
R
Over the Rainbow
O
Play With Purpose
P
Quiet Time
Q
Nature Rules
N
Mondrian-Inspired
M
Little Touches
L
Keep It Neat
K
Joyful Imagery
J
Industrial Details
I
Have an Imagination
H
Graphic Prints
G
It’s important for Quinn to have a space that makes it easy for her to channel creativity. She creates worlds and stories out of everything in her room: The cloud night-light acts as a mountain for her little figures, while the lines of the rug are a character’s obstacle course.
Pink Ceramic Cloud Night-Light by Drew Barrymore Flower Kids
Zigzag Stripes Rug in Ivory/Black by Safavieh Kids
Have an Imagination
I like having a neutral foundation with pops of colors and graphic lines. My daughter’s room is full of statement pieces, like bold bedding and throw pillows, that can be paired with anything, from the simplest furniture and hand- me-downs to vintage items.
Jungle Tiger Bedding Set by Drew Barrymore Flower Kids
Checkered Cushion Case
Cover by STOAG
4-Piece Wood Stacking Stool Set by Costway
Graphic Prints
Clutter makes it hard for moms and kids to get the most out of a space, so I find value in items that keep things organized. This chest is a classic that’s been updated with a fun, modern look, while the giraffe shelf can act like a rotating exhibit where kids change out books and toys each month for their new favorite pieces.
Mac n’ Cheese Giraffe Wall Shelf by Drew Barrymore Flower Kids
Doll Cottage Wood Chest
in Pink by Acme
Keep it Neat
I love art that inspires and really taps into a child’s sense of imagination and the idea that possibilities are endless. Choose pieces that are cohesive—so there is commonality between colors, shapes, and frames—but not themed.
Astro Boy Galaxy Party Print by Drew Barrymore Flower Kids
Joyful Imagery
With its kid-friendly size and low profile, this mini metal table–and–modern chair pairing won’t overwhelm the space. Both surfaces are easy to clean, making them great for the inevitable snack-time spills or paint and crayon markings that happen during art projects, crafting, or homework.
Modern Plastic Chair in
Black by 2xhome
Graham Metal Industrial Table
in Blueby Mainstays
Industrial Details
Misha is really into gardening with his grandma and recently learned all the flower names—lilac, buttercup, daisy, lily. This bright little number doubles as toy storage in the winter and can be wheeled around to different play areas.
Metal Wheelbarrow in Red
by Gymax Kids
Nature Rules
Primary hues don’t have to look predictable in a kid’s space when you mix in some natural wood, like this easel and table-and-chair set. Channel your inner Ellsworth Kelly or Henri Matisse for a modern take on color.
Nantucket Table and 4-Chair Set by KidKraft
Little Artist Van Gogh Easel
by Teamson Kids
Mondrian-Inspired
A multicolored polka dot print goes with everything and looks good layered (having a soft, woolly landing for somersaults is a bonus), while animal-inspired lighting creates a magical vibe in a kid’s room, especially at night. I love the idea of little creatures watching over him as he sleeps.
Rainbow Dots Shade with Alligator Lamp Base by Drew Barrymore Flower Kids
Christabella Polka Dot Rug in Ivory by Safavieh Kids
Little Touches
I like to have smaller seating areas in the kids’ rooms for them to do projects or play with Legos in their own zone, that’s their own size. It’s kind of no adults allowed.
3-Piece Finn
Table-and-Stool Set in
White by Mainstays
QUIET TIME
I tend to gravitate toward art, graphic design, and toys (well-designed wood puzzles in vibrant colors make us all happy!) for kids’ spaces that have an educational component: botanical photos, animals, real maps, letters, and numbers.
Wood Geometry Puzzle
by Popvcly
Animal World Map and
Happy Fruit Print
by Drew Barrymore Flower Kids
Play with Purpose
Bedding is a great place
for your kids to feel like their style can shine through. Embrace their passion points: Whatever they’re into, make that a part of their decor and space.
Rainbow Sheet Set by
Your Zone
Over the Rainbow
Don’t worry too much if your kids want a dinosaur rug and a rocket ship lamp— they have their entire lives to have matching things. Childhood should bea little silly and unpredictable.
Rocket Table Lamp
by Your Zone
Prismatic Dino Rug
by Mohawk Home
Thematic Accents
We’re big on staying tidy;
it just makes life simpler. We have no shortage of toys, art supplies, board games, balls, and sports equipment, but if there’s a place for everything, it’s easier to get down to
the business of having fun.
16-Bin Toy Storage Organizer
by Tot Tutors
Set of 2 Rectangular Rugby Striped Storage Bins in Navy
by Urban Shop
Stay Tidy
Art is so important to us. There’s something hanging in every room of our house, often on every wall in that room (yes, including the bath). You can’t go wrong with art if you choose something your kids love and will love to look at.
Retro Lightning Print by Drew Barrymore Flower Kids
Retro Visuals
To keep them from squabbling, we assign each of our kids a color. These bins and cups are both versatile and pull double duty: The former can be filled with toys, blankets, the works; the latter can hold art supplies during craft time and a favorite beverage during mealtime later on.
Set of 3 Linen Storage Bins in Navy by Urban Shop
Set of 6 Sailboat Cups by Drew Barrymore Flower Kids
Win-Win
When choosing furniture for kids’ spaces, we opt for items that will grow with them. The bold color and curved lines of this chair make it the perfect statement piece, while providing function to curl up and read a good book.
Selena Velvet Accent Chair–and–Ottoman Set in Green by Meridian Furniture
Versatile Furniture
There’s nothing like dropping your clothes as a kid and laughing at the one-eyed, one-toothed monster below your toes before getting into the bath. Our middle son is the ultimate collector— he loves finding all sorts of odds and ends. This alligator storage shelf is the perfect way for him to proudly display his latest finds.
Snap Pea Alligator Wall Shelf
by Drew Barrymore Flower Kids
Monsters Rug by SKL Home
Unconventional Decor
Rugs are great for laying out in their rooms, reading books, drawing, and playing. We pick designs that we can easily switch around to other parts of the house or hang on the wall as art.
Confetti Rug by SKL Home
Multi-Striped Rug
by Safavieh Kids
Zany Prints
Floor and table lamps add visual interest to a room.
This tripod lamp is so sculptural, and since it has metal legs, kids can stick their magnet blocks to it.
Jungle Tiger Shade with Marshmallow Tripod Floor Lamp by Drew Barrymore Flower Kids
Yellow Statements
We love baskets! They are perfect for holding books and all their little toys and knickknacks. Kids are natural collectors, and giving every item a place it belongs makes cleanup easier for everyone.
Seagrass Wicker Basket
Set of 2 Soft Baskets
by Your Zone
X Marks the Spot
Read the full interview
in our first-ever Kids issue,
and subscribe here for
design inspiration for the
whole family all year round.
Words by Erin Cunningham
Ahead, we asked 9 design-savvy parents to curate the coolest Walmart Kids products and share smart solutions for the littlest members of the family. Here’s to making kids’ spaces 100 percent more fun.
Home is where kids learn and discover— a place to nurture and shape their world.
Creative Living
from A-Z
A-Z
from
Living
Creative
In Partnership With
In Partnership With
Walmart Kids