Families grow fast. Where it was once you and your partner, it is now you, your partner, and how ever many children you have. Heck, maybe there’s a dog or a cat, too. No matter how many live under your roof, your home will go through a lot of change over the years.
This is inevitable, after all. A home decorated for two adults will hardly suit a family with young children. The same could be said as those children grow – teenagers need different space and furniture than toddlers and young kids. They might need a desk in a study room. Or maybe they want more privacy, so an attic room might be a good idea.
If you are unsure how your home might change as your kids grow up, don’t worry. This post is here to help. Three rooms that are commonly adapted as children age have been listed below.
The Shared Bathroom
As a parent, you’ll understand the importance of a big bathroom. When the kids are younger, it might seem like chaos, but it’s actually easier. You march them in for bathtime, that’s it. When they become teens, all of a sudden, it’s a fight for the shower or toilet, especially in the morning. You hear feet racing across the hallway. You hear arguing and name-calling. It’s a lot.
And this is why the shared bathroom changes as the children age. For some families, this even leads to a bathroom remodel. A different space is needed entirely to handle your needs. While they might have used the bathtub lots as toddlers, showers are most likely preferred for teenagers and adults, so the tub is wasting space. As a result, a tub-to-shower conversion is the best option.
Of course, this doesn’t mean everything will change. You’ll still need lots of storage for toiletries and dirty laundry. You’ll still need plenty of countertop and floor space – everyone knows kids like to leave their belongings everywhere.
The Living Room
Like more rooms in your house, the living room was likely babyproofed and cushioned in their early years. It would have been cluttered with toys. A space for play and family time once upon a time. Now, a shift occurs. The living room becomes a social spot for teenagers to connect with their family and friends. It must accommodate both gaming and homework.
Such a multifunctional room requires flexibility. While the space itself might not change, the furniture within it will. Flexible furniture, for instance, will be required. Do not skimp on comfort and durability, though. There will also be a need for storage areas – primarily for books, gaming consoles, and school supplies.
Lots of parents are noticing that their kids view the living room as a central hub; they’re becoming “living room kids.” This is a big shift from the days of “bedroom kids.”
The “Flex” Room
Many families have that one room that does it all. Maybe it began as a guest bedroom. Then it changed. It was a playroom. It then became a storage space. After that, it was an office and study room. It changes time and again, and this room will continue to do so – even after your children fly the nest.
One thing to keep in mind for this room, though, is that it should suit the user. If multiple people use the space for different reasons – and this is common – then it should do so in an organized manner. Keep a storage box for kids’ toys. Have a desk space in one corner. Instead of a couch and a bed, purchase a day bed in case you ever have guests staying over.
To conclude, your home will change. That’s part of having a family and watching them grow. How well your home adapts to the family’s needs will depend on you and your own preferences, though. Just remember, it is the family that makes a house a home – and that’s the most important aspect.
