Guest Blogger: Gideon Mendelson ’07 (AAS)

I started Mendelson Group in 2003 and slowly gained traction and a loyal client base.

Then, my husband and I had three kids. The clients and the projects didn't really change. But, my perspective shifted.

I’ve always focused on designing spaces that make life better and easier. However, once I understood that with three kids running around, it’s a challenge to get anything done, I developed a greater appreciation for the power of a well-designed home. In a space that’s carefully designed by an expert, it's possible to make sure certain things happen for your family - whether it’s playtime, work time, stress-free meals, or sleep time.

So, how do we approach designing for families?

Firstly, we believe that you don’t need to sacrifice style just because kids are involved. Our goal is to create sophisticated spaces that can grow with children. We design “the bones” of a bedroom or playroom to work for any age. For example, we encourage our clients to consider timeless, smart storage and millwork that can hide away the clutter of a toddler or a tween. Then, it’s “the stuff” that makes a space a child’s room vs. a young adult’s room, so smart choices mean a room can remain stylish and age-appropriate over time. We select fun, less expensive accessories, pillows, linens, and lampshades for younger children that can easily be swapped out as they get older.

The graphic floral print on the window and the dresser are fun enough for a baby and still sophisticated enough for a young girl. Swap out the crib and chair for a full bed and desk, and the space easily becomes a teenager’s room.

Secondly, we focus on materials and pieces that are durable - they should take a beating but keep on looking beautiful. We love the new vinyl wallpapers that are fun, easy-to-clean room backdrops. We also often specify synthetic leathers and indoor/outdoor fabrics for spaces like mudrooms or kitchen counter stools. And, we encourage clients to use natural fibers when possible because they’re easier to clean. It’s about choosing materials and pieces that don’t cause anxiety, so you can focus on the people, not the potential spills and stains.

Indoor/outdoor fabrics, a Caesarstone table, and a vinylized banquet transform breakfast insanity into zen breakfast calm and conversation

Lastly, when designing for families, we’re focused on encouraging time together. A family room that has spaces for working, watching, and playing means that a family can be with each other even while doing different things. Game tables, project areas or desks in family rooms, living rooms or kitchens encourage this multi-tasking. Kids can finish up homework while a parent finishes cooking dinner. And for mealtimes, we like to make cozy breakfast table banquets and comfortable seating for round dining tables to create regular gathering spots for friends and family.

We created this multi-purpose room that has spaces to work, to lounge, to chat. Everyone can do their own thing and still be together.

I know firsthand that with three kids, the days are complicated. Then, toss in today’s constant distractions from phones, work, electronics, and the news - it can all make family life feel like pure chaos. Amid this, it’s comforting to me that design retains its unique ability to shape and shift our daily lives and make more of the time we spend with those we love. As we like to say around our office, that’s the power of what design can do.