CASE STUDY
Basement in Motion
Transforming a basement into a fabulous family playroom
Start My Sensory SpaceStart My Sensory Space
The Background
This New Jersey family dreamed of a playroom where their five energetic kids could get active, explore, and create lasting memories. Their basement was the right size, but it needed a complete makeover. They turned to Fun and Function’s new interior design service, DesignUp, to transform the space into an immersive play experience.
The Vision
To create a bold and energetic playroom that inspires movement, creativity and growth.
The Challenge
Since the room would be used by all five kids, the space needed to include elements that would be engaging for different ages and stages.
BeforeAfter
BeforeAfter
The Process
Step 1: Choosing the Sensory Tools
To meet kids’ diverse sensory needs, the design team incorporated a balance of calming and active sensory tools throughout the space.
Climb, Crash and Build Confidence!
At the heart of the space is a fully equipped gross motor zone! A bold, custom rock climbing wall challenges the older kiddos, and coordinating monkey bars encourage them to hone their budding ninja skills. The team also added a giant foam pit and crash mat for epic landings.
Climb, Crash and Build Confidence!
At the heart of the space is a fully equipped gross motor zone! A bold, custom rock climbing wall challenges the older kiddos, and coordinating monkey bars encourage them to hone their budding ninja skills. The team also added a giant foam pit and crash mat for epic landings.
Pretend Play and Sliding Fun
To ensure that the space would be inviting for the younger bunch, the team designed a charming playhouse and collaborated with a trusted third-party vendor to bring the vision to life. The marketplace theme sets the stage for endless pretend-play adventures, while the attached slide encourages active play and endless fun!
Pretend Play and Sliding Fun
To ensure that the space would be inviting for the younger bunch, the team designed a charming playhouse and collaborated with a trusted third-party vendor to bring the vision to life. The marketplace theme sets the stage for endless pretend-play adventures, while the attached slide encourages active play and endless fun!
Calm & Engagement
An abstract mural completes the contemporary aesthetic, striking the perfect balance between trendy and cheerful.
Focus & Stress Relief
An abstract mural completes the contemporary aesthetic, striking the perfect balance between trendy and cheerful.
Calm & Engagement
Students can also enjoy satisfying visual and tactile input from the Fiber Optic Light Strands or cozy up with Heavy Herbert for hugs and deep pressure input that’s sure to put a smile on their face!
These sensory tools create a nurturing environment where kids can relax, explore and unwind in the way that works best for them.
Step 2: Design & Layout
The team began by defining the design direction for the space. They selected a color palette of crisp white and cool gray accented by energizing blues and greens to give the room a fresh, modern feel. soothing and engaging.
The End Result
Exactly what we imagined and we wouldn’t change a thing!
- Michelle Howlett, assistant principal of Washington Elementary School
After weeks of hard work, the playroom was ready for action. Now, their magnificent space is in full swing, creating memories and keeping boredom at bay – once and for all!
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