A family room is the heart of the home, a space for relaxation, entertainment, and family bonding. However, toys can quickly turn this haven into a chaotic landscape. Smart toy storage is essential for maintaining a sense of calm and order while ensuring your little ones have easy access to their favorite playthings. Here are 18 design ideas that blend functionality with style to create a family room that’s both playful and inviting.
Open Shelving with Colorful Bins
This classic solution is versatile and visually appealing. Opt for open shelving made from natural wood, painted white for a clean look, or even reclaimed wood for an industrial vibe. Fill the shelves with colorful storage bins, choosing hues that complement your room’s color scheme. In the US, soft pastels like mint green, lavender, and blush are popular. In Europe, bolder shades of turquoise, mustard yellow, and terracotta are trending. Label the bins with fun, whimsical labels or simply use colorful fabric scraps for easy identification.
Built-in Toy Cubbies
Built-in cubbies are a space-saving and stylish solution. They seamlessly integrate with the room’s design, creating a sense of cohesiveness. Choose from a variety of materials, including wood, MDF, or even brick. In the US, a farmhouse-style aesthetic with whitewashed wood and simple lines is popular. In Europe, a Scandinavian look with light wood and minimalist design is trending. Add a touch of personality with decorative details like rounded edges, playful hardware, or integrated lighting.
Toy Storage Bench
A multi-functional toy storage bench offers both seating and storage. Choose a design that complements your family room’s style. Upholstered benches with hidden storage compartments are a popular choice in the US, offering comfort and practicality. In Europe, minimalist wooden benches with built-in drawers or shelves are trending, providing a sleek and streamlined look. Consider adding a cushion in a vibrant color that adds a pop of personality to the space.
Storage Ottomans
Storage ottomans are a stylish and practical addition to any family room. They offer extra seating while concealing toys within their hollow interiors. For a contemporary look, choose ottomans with clean lines and neutral fabrics. In the US, plush velvet ottomans in jewel tones like emerald green or sapphire blue are popular. In Europe, linen ottomans with geometric patterns are trending. Make sure the ottoman’s size is appropriate for your family room, and choose a fabric that’s easy to clean.
Wall-Mounted Toy Hammocks
This playful storage solution is ideal for smaller spaces. Wall-mounted toy hammocks are made from strong netting and can be easily hung on a wall or ceiling. Choose a hammock with a fun pattern or a solid color that complements your room’s decor. In the US, geometric patterns and bold colors are popular. In Europe, natural materials like cotton or hemp with subtle designs are trending. This solution is perfect for storing plush toys, stuffed animals, and lightweight items.
Mobile Toy Cart
A mobile toy cart offers flexibility and portability. It’s perfect for keeping toys organized and easily accessible. Choose a cart with wheels that roll smoothly and a design that complements your room’s style. In the US, industrial-style metal carts with open shelves are popular. In Europe, minimalist wooden carts with drawers or baskets are trending. You can even add a chalkboard or whiteboard to the cart for a personalized touch.
Hanging Toy Organizers
Hanging toy organizers are a space-saving solution that maximizes vertical space. They can be hung from the ceiling or attached to a wall. Choose a hanging organizer with multiple compartments or pockets for easy sorting and storage. In the US, canvas organizers with playful prints and bright colors are popular. In Europe, fabric organizers with a neutral color palette and minimalist designs are trending. You can even use fabric scraps or ribbons to customize the organizer’s look.
Under-Bed Storage Bins
Utilize the space beneath your furniture with under-bed storage bins. Choose bins with lids to keep dust and dirt out. In the US, clear bins are popular for easy visibility of their contents. In Europe, opaque bins with minimalist designs are trending. Opt for bins with handles for easy access and labeling options for organization.
Ladder Storage with Baskets
A ladder storage system with baskets offers a unique and decorative way to store toys. Place the ladder against a wall and add baskets of varying sizes to each rung. In the US, repurposed wooden ladders with natural finishes are popular. In Europe, metal ladders with a sleek, industrial look are trending. The baskets can be made from woven materials, fabric, or even metal for a contemporary look.
Toy Closet with Sliding Doors
A dedicated toy closet provides a centralized location for all your child’s toys. Choose sliding doors to maximize space and avoid any swinging doors that could obstruct the flow of your family room. In the US, white-painted doors with simple hardware are popular. In Europe, glass sliding doors with frosted finishes are trending. You can even add a chalkboard panel to the door for a playful touch.
Floor-to-Ceiling Toy Bookshelf
A floor-to-ceiling bookshelf provides ample space for storing toys and books. Choose a bookshelf with adjustable shelves for versatile storage options. In the US, rustic wooden bookshelves with open shelves are popular. In Europe, minimalist white bookshelves with closed doors or drawers are trending. You can add baskets, bins, or even decorative boxes to the shelves to keep toys organized and visually appealing.
Toy Storage Cabinet with Drawers
A toy storage cabinet with drawers provides a closed storage solution for toys. Choose a cabinet with sturdy construction and easy-to-open drawers. In the US, cabinets with painted finishes in neutral colors like white or gray are popular. In Europe, cabinets with natural wood finishes and minimalist hardware are trending. You can even add labels to the drawers for easy identification.
Wall-Mounted Toy Organizer with Pockets
Wall-mounted toy organizers with pockets provide a visually appealing and space-saving solution. Choose an organizer with pockets of varying sizes to accommodate a range of toys. In the US, fabric organizers with colorful prints and patterns are popular. In Europe, canvas organizers with neutral colors and simple designs are trending. These organizers can be easily mounted on a wall using hooks or adhesive strips.
Hidden Toy Storage Behind Sofa
Utilize the space behind your sofa for hidden toy storage. Build a custom storage unit that seamlessly blends with your existing furniture. Choose materials that complement your sofa and family room’s style. In the US, built-in shelves with doors or drawers are popular. In Europe, hidden compartments with sliding doors are trending. This option allows you to keep toys tucked away while maintaining a clean and uncluttered look.
Toy Storage Unit with Foldable Table Top
A toy storage unit with a foldable table top offers functionality and versatility. The table top can be used for playing, crafts, or even dining. When not in use, it can be folded down to reveal the storage unit below. In the US, units with painted finishes and open shelves are popular. In Europe, units with natural wood finishes and a minimalist design are trending. This solution is perfect for smaller family rooms where space is limited.
Wooden Toy Crate Stack
This rustic and charming storage solution adds a touch of farmhouse charm to your family room. Choose wooden toy crates of varying sizes and stack them on top of each other. In the US, crates with a distressed white finish are popular. In Europe, natural wood crates with a subtle patina are trending. Label the crates with chalkboard labels or fabric scraps for easy identification.
