A Sophisticated, Baby-Friendly Living Room

Joanna and Al are young professionals who live in a house with an open layout featuring several catwalks and open stairwells connecting different levels. The couple love to entertain, and the house has served as party central to their friends. But with the arrival of a new baby, their place has changed from a haven for late-night parties into a space for late-night feedings.

Soon after becoming parents, the couple realized their house would have to undergo some changes, particularly the sunken living room. They wanted to turn the comfy but sadly outdated space into a modern room in which they could relax and entertain visiting grandparents, but they also wanted it to function as a safe, childproof environment. So I got set to create a room that proves you can have kids without sacrificing style.