5 Ways To Make Your Home More "Life-Friendly"
Just yesterday, my toddler was tossing strawberries on the floor at breakfast and throwing his milk at dinner. I'm in the go-with-it stage of life right now friends, so these tips are coming at the perfect time! Plus, they're coming from a designer that I adore beyond words—the ever-talented Bria Hammel. Bria also has kiddos (Brooklyn and Louie), which means I trust her advice 110% when it comes to "life-friendly". And, she just launched her gorgeous new shop, Brooke & Lou this week, named after those little sweeties of course! It's filled to the brim with beautiful, livable pieces for everyday homes... just what this toddler mama needs. Anyone else with me? Let's read on for the tips!
(Pictured: Brooke & Lou Kiawah Coffee Table)
1. Rethink the Coffee Table. Avoid sharp edges when you have kiddos running around! We love something made of Rattan like this piece from our Brooke & Lou collection. Not only does it hide crumbs, stains and imperfections, it’s not made of wood or glass so you don’t have to worry about scratches or fingerprints.
(Pictured: Caitlin Wilson Rug)
2. Play with Pattern.We love to build our clients’ spaces around patterned rugs like this one from Caitlin Wilson. Not only are they beautiful, but a rug with heavy color and pattern will hide kids’ messes, food stains, and dog hair.
(Pictured: Brooke & Lou Eloise Sofa)
3. Pay Attention to the Fabric. Invest in pieces with timeless styles and durability. Leather, prints, and darker fabrics are all a safe bet. But for those who would like to go lighter in color and still feel secure in their investment, we have some great options at Brooke & Lou. I worked with my team to create our very own life-friendly fabrics that withstand everyday messes (goodbye red wine stains and peanut butter fingerprints - you can truly just wipe them away!).
(Pictured: Pottery Barn Beachcomber Lidded Tulip Basket)
4. When in doubt, throw it in a basket! Nothing hides a mess or makes for easy clean up like a chic basket. Perfect for tidying up a room quickly, these baskets from Pottery Barn can store toys, games, and blankets - you name it. Bonus points if the basket has a lid!
(Pictured: Brooke & Lou French Pine Dining Table)
5. Embrace the Weather.Choose a dining table that already has a weathered or distressed look so that as time goes on, it looks natural and you don’t have to worry about the wear and tear.
Interior Design: Bria Hammel Interiors | Shop: Brooke & Lou