Overhauling a Basement Playroom into an Organized and Kid-Powered Space
A basement playroom is a dream for kids—giving them a space to play, explore, and bring their friends. But without regular upkeep, it can quickly become overwhelming. In this case, the playroom had accumulated years' worth of toys, games, and loose pieces, making it nearly impossible to maintain order. The goal was to create a system that made clean-up easier, encouraged the child to take ownership of the space, and showcased his favorite toys and creations.
BEFORE
THE BIG SORT WITH THE FAMILY
This was a multi-day project that required deep sorting, decluttering, and intentional organization. Together with the child, we sorted through Legos, games, and small toy pieces—keeping what was meaningful and letting go of the unnecessary extras.
To create a structure that would actually work, we built upon an existing cube storage system by adding a second white cube organizer. Each cube was assigned a purpose, with one dedicated to active games and small, contained toys while the other became a display area. Labels were added to each bin to reinforce organization, making it easier to maintain order—because when something has a designated "home," it's more likely to be put back where it belongs.
AFTER
The Result:
The playroom transformed from a chaotic dumping ground into a space the child felt genuinely proud of. With labeled storage and a structured system, the room became easier to maintain while still allowing for creativity and play. Most importantly, the young boy took ownership of his space, excited to show it off to friends rather than just seeing it as a room his parents let him use. The result? A playroom that wasn’t just organized but also empowering.
Inspired by the transformation, the kids even took the initiative to organize their own closets, extending the sense of ownership and pride beyond just the playroom.