Our previous few posts have focused on the technical church design elements of children’s spaces in a church building. These spaces should not only meet building code and regulatory requirements, but they should also look dazzling. Here are some best practices that church leaders can follow when planning the interior design of church spaces for kids.
Breaking Up the Flow
In most areas of a church design, maintaining a sense of flow is the goal, where each space naturally leads into the next. However, children’s spaces should break from this norm. These areas need to stand out, signaling to both children and parents that the space is unique for kids. Doing so will make children feel both comfortable and welcome. By creating an area that distinctly says “we are for kids,” you also emphasize the value your church places on young members.
Make a Solid Plan
Creating a master design plan for the children’s area is essential. This plan should detail all the elements that you wish to include, such as furnishings, signage, play equipment, carpeting, and flooring. By planning these aspects upfront, you make certain that all components work together cohesively, and that your budget can accommodate all your design choices. Consider the themes that you might want to incorporate, as well. Themed environments can be particularly engaging for children, turning a simple space into a magical place that sparks their imagination and joy.
Quality vs. Cost
When selecting materials for your children’s spaces, quality should be a top priority. While it’s important to be good stewards of the funds provided by your congregation, this doesn’t always mean choosing the cheapest options. Investing in higher-quality materials can be more cost-effective in the long run, as they often last longer and require less maintenance. This is particularly true for high-traffic items like flooring and furniture, as well as play equipment, which needs to be both durable and safe.
Color, Color, Color
There is one element that always plays a vital role in the design of children’s spaces, and that’s the use of color. Color can create a welcoming, stimulating environment that children love. Don’t shy away from using bold and vibrant colors. Color can be incorporated in many ways. Obviously, it can be used on walls, but it can also play a role in flooring, furniture and accessories. In our next article, we will delve deeper into the use of color and provide examples of how it can be effectively utilized in children’s spaces.
For more detailed insights and practical advice on all elements of church design and building, we invite you to attend our free i3 webinars. A complete list of topics, dates and a link to sign-up are available on .