Home by Novogratz: Create a chic, kid-friendly home

Home design tips for chic parents

Have you always wondered how you can create a home that is kid-friendly, yet also chic and adult-friendly? Cortney and Bob Novograzt are not only stars of the #1 design show on HGTV, Home by Novogratz, but they are also busy parents of seven kids. Check out their practical (and affordable!) tips for creating a home that is pleasing to kids -- and parents!

Husband and wife design team Cortney and Bob Novogratz know a thing or two about designing a kid-friendly home that is chic and comfortable, as they are not only the stars of their own HGTV show, Home by Novogratz, but are also parents to seven children, including Wolfgang, 14, twins Bellamy and Tallulah, 13, Breaker, 10, twins Five and Holleder, 5, and 2-year-old Major.

"Don't take your home too seriously. Your home should be warm, fun and represent the people that live there," Cortney tells SheKnows.

The designer duo told us that having a kid-friendly house doesn't mean your house can't have nice pieces. "Don't be afraid to buy great antiques. If it's chipped and old it's even better," she says. "That way if your kid skateboards into it, it just adds to the history and charm of it. Sprinkle nice things (art, furniture, books) throughout the house to teach your kids about great art and designers. Also, limit the amount of plastic. Just because you have children doesn't mean everything needs to be plastic."

Practical playroom tips

Cortney and Bob suggest thinking outside of the box and using everyday household objects to keep toys organized. "A great vintage champagne bucket houses my kids Lego's," says Cortney. "We often stock up on many budget-friendly pieces that organize our different spaces at home and keep it looking great with items found on The Foundary as well as retail stores such as Bloomingdales, Macy's and Bed Bath and Beyond."

If space is limited, optimize the play space. "This means putting storage against/on the walls to keep everything off of ground level but still reachable," she suggests. "Put a fun, soft rug on the floor and add some pillows or poofs to create a comfortable play space. "

Baby nursery know-how

What is the key to having a nursery that will grow with your child?

"Stay away from themes and keep in mind any bins that hold toys and dolls one year, can hold belts and shoes in a few years," Cortney says. "Also, don't be afraid to put some of your great, original art and some of your favorite pieces of furniture in your kids' rooms. Whether we're reading them a book, helping them with homework or sitting in a chair helping them get ready for their first school dance, their room should be a space that adults enjoy and want to be in as well."

Her nursery must-haves are practical, as well. "Some kind of love seat or daybed for when you're up all night or for afternoon naps. Also, a great, hip laundry basket is a 'must-have' since it will get lots of use!"

Next page: Tips for teen rooms and home office must-haves