Playroom Makeover: Greenhouse Play Tent & Cozy Playroom DecorIdeas
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I’m so excited to finally share our cozy third-floor playroom makeover! This project has been a true labour of love, transforming an overlooked space into a whimsical, nature-inspired haven for play and creativity. You might remember how it looked before (check out the original reveal here: Budget-Friendly Third Floor Bonus Room Reveal). From a blank canvas to a vibrant playroom filled with character, this has been one of my favourite updates yet.
Estimated reading time: 7 minutes
Greenhouse Play Tent and Soft Play Nook
The star of the show has to be the charming greenhouse play tent. Nestled in the corner, it’s the perfect spot for endless pretend play. Around it, I created a soft play nook with a cozy mat and a sweet selection of pillows. I used this Spoonflower toile peel and stick wallpaper as the backdrop to add a touch of storybook charm to the walls.
To make the nook extra inviting, I sewed pillow covers from these lovely Spoonflower fabrics:
- Whimsical Peter Rabbit garden print
- Blue Block Print floral
- Block Print Lattice floral
- Peter Rabbit hot air balloon
- Green Ticking Stripe
IKEA Sofa Upgrade and Ottoman Cover
For seating, I repurposed our trusty IKEA sofa with a fresh slipcover from Comfort Works (read more about how I gave it new life here: IKEA sofa makeover). The sage green colour adds a beautiful, calming tone to the playroom decor and complements the Rifle Paper Co. rug perfectly. I also updated our ottoman with a custom skirt using the same blue block print floral fabric as the cafe curtains, which brings the whole space together.
Playroom Bookshelf and Cozy Reading Corner
One of my favourite playroom ideas was adding a dedicated reading nook. The bookshelf is filled with charming stories, perfect for quiet afternoons or bedtime tales. I love how it turned this corner into a little library! I also added a battery bulb to a sconce to add more personality to the space.
The bunting banners (these ones) add a sweet touch of colour and texture overhead, tying the whole look together.
Sweet Details and Handmade Touches
I had so much fun adding little handmade details throughout the room:
- I covered a lampshade in the blue floral fabric and paired it with this brass sconce I already had, and in another area, I used this toile fabric that matched the peel and stick wallpaper and this lovely brass sconce for the perfect reading corner.
- The cafe curtains were hung using this rod and rings set (I gave them a gold finish with Rub ‘n Buff: here).
- To create a bit of playful magic, I made three paper mache hot air balloons and added Cricut flowers, printed images, and washi tape for extra whimsy. The rattan hot air balloon is a sweet nod to these DIY pieces.
For the walls, I curated a gallery of art prints using an Etsy download and the same green floral fabric as a mat, which makes the colours pop beautifully.
Handcrafted Hot Air Balloons
One of my favourite parts of this playroom makeover was creating the whimsical paper mache hot air balloons. I made three balloons from scratch, using paper mache and then painting them in soft, playful colors to complement the room’s cozy vibe. To give them even more character, I added Cricut flowers, washi tape, and printed images, making each balloon truly unique.
I paired these DIY balloons with the sweet bunting flag banners, which drape beautifully overhead and bring a sense of adventure and magic to the space. These little touches transform the room into a playful haven that’s full of wonder and creativity.
Playroom Decor Ideas to Steal
If you’re working on a playroom makeover, here are a few ideas you might love:
- Mix and match patterns in soft colours for a layered, cozy feel.
- Use peel and stick wallpaper for an easy, renter-friendly update.
- Add a greenhouse play tent or a cozy reading nook for magical spaces to grow and dream.
- Bring in handmade details like paper mache hot air balloons or custom fabric accents.
- Don’t be afraid to upcycle and refresh furniture like your old IKEA sofa.
Final Thoughts on Our Playroom Makeover
I’m thrilled with how this space came together. It feels fresh, fun, and perfectly suited for little adventures. From the greenhouse play tent to the cozy reading nook and the sweet handmade touches, it’s a space that brings a smile to my face every time I walk in. I hope you feel inspired by these playroom decor ideas and that it sparks some creativity in your own home.
FAQs
A playroom is a dedicated space for children to explore, create, and play safely, fostering their imagination and independence. Our playroom makeover shows how a cozy, organized environment can inspire endless creativity and fun.
A playroom is often called a bonus room, kids’ room, or a fun space where children can play and learn. Our playroom ideas turned an unused third-floor room into a magical retreat filled with playroom decor, cozy nooks, and a greenhouse play tent.
Yes, a playroom makeover can transform a small or underused space into a hub of play, creativity, and family fun. Our playroom project made the third floor the heart of our home, with beautiful playroom decor and thoughtful touches throughout.