Fun Playroom Ideas to Create the Ultimate Kids' Den
Every child loves a den: a space that feels like their own, where they can build, read, imagine and flop. Whether you have a whole playroom or just a corner of the living room, these ideas will help you create a den that's fun to be in and easy to tidy.
1. Divide the space into zones
Even a small room works better with zones. Try three:
- A cosy corner: for reading and quiet time.
- A making table: for drawing, crafts, puzzles and play dough.
- An open floor: for building, role play and active games.
A rug can mark out each area and gives a soft place to sit.
2. Build in a hideaway
Children love somewhere to hide. If the den is also a bedroom, a bed with a built-in hideout does double duty. The Lifetime Adventure Hangout Kids Bed with Treehouse Den has a den in the frame. The Luxury Childrens Teepee Tent Bed with Toy Storage by Circu and the Mathy by Bols Original Kids Tent Cabin Bed bring a camping feel. Browse treehouse beds and teepee and tent beds.
3. Add soft, flexible seating
Beanbags and pouffes are easy to move, so the room can change from reading nook to cinema in seconds. Try the Extreme Lounging Mini B Teddy Indoor Bean Bag for little ones, or the bigger Extreme Lounging Mighty B Teddy Indoor Bean Bag for sharing. See all kids beanbags.
4. Give them a table of their own
A child-height table and chairs makes crafts and snacks easier, and keeps mess in one place. The Kidsaw Kids Peppa Pig Table and Chairs Set is a favourite with younger children. Browse kids tables and chairs, or a kids desk for older children.
5. Make tidying easy
The secret to a den that stays fun is storage children can use themselves. Go for low, open units and boxes, and keep heavy items on the bottom.
- Clip-on or cube-style storage, like the Noomi Clip On Storage Unit, keeps favourite things close at hand.
- A storage cart on wheels, like the Vox Muve Kids Storage Cart with Wheels Beige & Oak Effect, moves to wherever play is happening.
- A tree bookcase, such as the Mathy by Bols Handmade Tree Bookcase in Tess Design, puts books on display so they get read.
Rotate toys: keep some boxed away and swap them every few weeks so old favourites feel new again. See all kids storage.
6. Get them moving
For younger children, an indoor climbing frame, such as the Tutti Bambini Scala Montessori 3 in 1 Pikler Climbing Frame with Climbing Wall, encourages active play on rainy days. Always supervise climbing play.
7. Light it softly
Use a mix of daylight, a main light and something softer for wind-down time. Keep cables and plugs out of reach, and choose children's lighting designed for kids' rooms.
8. Keep safety in mind
- Fix bookcases and tall storage to the wall with anti-tip fittings.
- Keep blind cords tied up and out of reach.
- Use rug grippers on hard floors.
- Check toys and furniture are suitable for your child's age.
Looking for gift ideas to fill the den? See our toys and gifts.
Frequently asked questions
How do I make a playroom in a small space?
Use zones, low open storage and flexible seating like beanbags. A bed with a built-in den makes a bedroom work as a playroom too.
What's the best storage for a playroom?
Low, open units that children can reach, with boxes or baskets for sorting. Wheeled carts and cube units are especially practical.
How can I keep the playroom tidy?
Give everything a home that children can reach, label boxes with pictures, and rotate toys so there's less out at once.
Is a teepee bed suitable for a toddler?
Floor-level teepee and house beds suit younger children. Check the age guidance and mattress size on the product page.