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Tuesday, May 1, 2012

302

Playroom Progress: A Bunch of Baskets!

I have some really exciting playroom news!

I found baskets!  Can you hear the birds chirping?  The choir singing?  The sounds of my super excited squeals?

I just may be a little in love with baskets.  It's a sickness....

When it comes to the Expedit bookcases, each cube has a fantastic large opening, which makes the furniture super amazing for storage in just about any room you can imagine.  Especially toys.  The openings measure approximately 13" square.


To really maximize all of that space, I was on the hunt for baskets that happily fit majority of the large opening.  Here are all of the options I considered:

{ 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 }


First, lets talk about what I wanted.  I wanted number three.  Like really really wanted.  I loved the natural feeling.  I loved the color {especially with our floors}.  I loved that it fit.  I didn't love the $35 price tag which would make the total cost of filling the cubbies, $350!!!  No thank you.  So, I looked at number one as an alternative.  Coming in at $13 per basket, I would still be able to fill the cubbies and get that natural texture and feeling I was going for.  But again, $130 total and I wasn't quite sure that woven baskets would be the best option for a play space.  I love the look and natural feeling, but I just wasn't convinced that for $130 they would stand the test of playroom time.  Next option was also IKEA, number two.  They are made for the Expedit, so I know they hold boatloads of toys.  In fact, in our past playroom, we had some of these.  But, they were large, clunky, heavy and ultimately cracked and chipped quite easily.  Total for number two would be an even $100.  I almost pulled the trigger on number four.  We have some of these in Expedits in the boy's shared closet and LOVE them.  Canvas, durable, fit the Expedit perfectly.... I was sold.  I even almost paid the $100 price tag for ten of these babies.  But, they were completely sold out {and still are}.  Boo.  Leaving us with number five.  I have used this type of basket around the house a few times, and we really really love them.  I love the texture and the durability.  They are really super fantastic baskets.  I had been eying them up for awhile, but at $12 per basket, I was having a hard time taking the $120 plunge.  But then last week I spied a pretty little clearance sticker on the bottom of those bad boys.  $6 for the giant size that I needed?  Heck YES!  My Target store only had two in stock.  So this crazy lady may have driven to multiple Target stores to snag all ten clearance baskets....


Is $60 a bit pricey and crazy for ten super sized baskets?  Yes and no.  They were the cheapest option for the Expedits, but absolutely not inexpensive.  Although, I felt like I won the lottery when I found them for 50% off and I am positive they will hold up for the long haul.  Not to mention that someday when my boys are too big to want and need a playroom, these babies can be recycled to the garage, laundry room, bedroom or even sold in a yard sale...


But do they hold a lot of toys?  Do they ever!





We have now removed almost every single toy from every single room in our home, and they all live happily in one friendly playroom!


It feels so good to finally have adequate storage and to no longer stash giant rubbermaid bins of toys under our stairs.  We still have oodles to do before we can call this playroom update complete.  Here is my current list:
  • Paint entertainment center
  • Update light fixture
  • Window treatment
  • Seating
  • Additional toy storage
  • A fun wall treatment
  • Photographs/Artwork 
  • Book storage 
  • Basket Labels

You may have noticed that I haven't crossed off seating yet.  Bench is done, but I am still pondering adding a pouf or two or floor pillows or something around the table.  We also have a lot of blank walls to fill and a giant bare window to tackle.  Oooh, and I can't WAIT to get started on making labels for the baskets... 



Wondering how the bench was made?  You can find part one here and part two here.

302 comments:

  1. I love your playroom space and how it is coming along. Your style is fantastic and simple! So glad I found your blog to follow - thanks for the ideas, tips and information!

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  2. At first I liked #4 because it would tie the blue wall and green cushions together. But I loved the color of #5 too, and when I saw the final picture with the blue table, it looks beautiful. The blues of the wall and the table frame the top and bottom and the two greens together in the middle look great. If I were a kid I'd want to be in there all the time! Love it all!

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  3. it turned out so beautiful :] I've been stalking since day 1 of the renovation process, looking forward for more.

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  4. I'm both happy and sad that these baskets are going on clearance. Its nice since the collection seemed a bit overpriced, but I'm sad that they will not be stocked anymore. I've bought a TON of them the past few months for various projects around the house. I'm still waiting for the teal ones to go clearance, only the white and green were marked down at my Target this weekend.

    The green baskets go great with the pattern on the bench cushions!

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  5. Love the final product, but as I was reading along, I figured you'd mix and match for sure to get the best of both worlds (cost AND design). :)

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  6. I've just used basket 3 in our book shelving and as they are clear I have cut a square of card from the box and covered it in wrapping paper to place inside the front so we get a decorative box instead of messy books!

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  7. Gorgeous!! I've been wanting to try some of the pinterest floor cushions, so I'll be super happy if you decide on those and give us an awesome tutorial. ;)

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  8. What a wonderful way to store toys. I love it!!

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  9. I absolutely love how you're able to store everything under the bench like that. They look great and keep everything clean and tidy. Great find!

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  10. Good find and I love the idea.

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  11. Very pretty and how lucky and cool were you that the baskets perfectly matched the seat cushion?? I have a question though - what happened to the lego storage you just did with labels by color? Wasn't that this room?

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    1. The blocks in this photo are larger Duplo blocks which we plan to phase out as soon as our youngest is no longer interested in them. We still have all the regular Lego pieces stored in the same way as I originally posted. I will do a whole room recap soon. :)

      xoxo,
      Jen

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  12. Great work!! This is exactly the color scheme and basic theme I've wanted for my son's portion of the kids' room. Thank for the inspiration! I just might make progress during my "Project Eliminate" this month :)

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  13. I have those exact baskets from Target (in 3 different sizes) and I LOVE them. :)

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  14. WOW! That works perfectly together. Such an inspiration! I would love to have an area of my home designated to just toys. Thankfully, most of my children are growing a bit older... ages 12, 10, 8 and 4... so there are not many tiny toys left around. My son does love to play with legos... maybe I can do something of this sort for under his bed?! Ideas ideas! Thank you so much for always posting your progress!

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  15. Looks great and colorful! Love the organization!

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  16. I love a good basket. I am working on my playroom right now and am loving these posts.

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  17. I love those baskets! I've been coveting them every time I go to Target, but the price holds me back too. Good to know they have actually gone on sale! Where did you get the owl pillow? It's so cute!

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  18. Love Love what you have done with the playroom, love the baskets wish they had them when my kids were younger.
    Not to be picky But there are baskets of Legos with the colors mixed up, what happened to your color seperated Lego stand/drawers??
    Great room!!

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    1. Lol, not picky at all! The blocks in this photo are larger Duplo blocks which we plan to phase out as soon as our youngest is no longer interested in them. We still have all the regular Lego pieces stored in the same way as I originally posted. I will do a whole room recap soon. :)

      xoxo,
      Jen

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  19. Looks great. Love the baskets and love the blue and green together.

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  20. I like those baskets more than the rest of the options. I love that toy storage isn't taking up additional floor space, since you paired it with the seating. :) Nice job!

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  21. That. Is. Incredible. I wish I had the space for something like this!
    xoxo
    kerri at HollyMuffin

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  23. I may be wrong, but those appear to be "Duplo" which is the younger kid version of Legos. They may also have legos. Just a thought?!

    We too LOVE IKEA. We currently use two of the square four spot EXPEDIT shelves in black brown (currently next to each other, but sometimes separate depending on rearranging!) with the DRONA fabric bins in black. We divide and conquer toys by plastic animals, Thomas, Mega Blocks, Pretend play, matchbox and small trucks/cars, large trucks, puzzles/games, miscellaneous. We also have five of the Target rectangle brown fabric laundry baskets for items that are too large and most often played with- 3 for Little People items and 2 for Imaginext. It works great for us being in a small townhome and only having a limited space to work with and small kids. Love this blog for ideas for a future home!

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  24. Wow so pretty and useful!!! I've been looking for similar green baskets for our expedit and you've hit the mother lode! Off I go to Target's to grab five of these and I REALLY HOPE it's 50% off here as well! Thanks!

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  25. I love how you used the Expedit bookcases for the storage. Did you make the cushions yourself?

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    1. Sure did! :) Here is the post: http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2012/04/playroom-progress-sweet-seating-part-1.html

      xoxo!
      Jen

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  26. Cannot believe you got those bakes on sale! I just bought 2 of them on Thursday a full price!

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    Replies
    1. You can bring your receipt in within two weeks for a price adjustment at Target.

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    2. Michelle is right. However, I tried to do a price adjustment and they wouldn't let me on "Clearanced" items, so you may have to return it and re-purchase it.

      xoxo,
      Jen

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    3. I went back to target to pick some more baskets up and they are still regular price in Texas

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    4. They are still regular price in California too! After I read your blog last night I ran out to my Target to pick up a few because I love those baskets as well! Unfortunately they aren't on sale here :(

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  27. Looks fabulous, Jen!! I have a bit of an obsession with those new Target baskets...already used multiple sizes in my kitchen, laundry room and am currently reorganizing my closet so I know I'll get some more there too :)

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  28. Awesome find on the baskets! I just ordered the blue ones online for our expedit!

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  29. We are in the process of a basement refinish and building a playroom from scratch. Your blog has been so helpful! I love love LOVE the basket/bench idea and I am copying it 100%! Thanks for sharing and keep us updated :)

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  30. omgoodness... can i just take your playroom and put it right into ours?? it looks so so good! i love the baskets you chose... they look perfect in that room! great job!!!

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  31. Jen! I love the baskets you went with. I have 2 of the same size from Target in blue that sit in our bottom pull-out freezer! It keeps things more organized and easier to find. The plastic in the freezer holds up well. Good thing you didn't go with your first choice; we have 3 almost identical ones in an entry way bench and they get scuffed up pretty easily. Not the most durable for a playroom. -Lauren

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  32. Gorgeous playroom...I love how the bins are tucked away so you can barely see the toys inside!!! so clean looking

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  33. I bought the same containers today in teal! Awesome price!

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    1. Vanessa where do you live??? I am hunting for the teal ones and cannot find anywhere =( they are also sold out online......

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  34. love! i also have the same baskets (in white for my bedroom and teal for family area). I also got them for 50% off at Target and like you I drove to multiple targets to get a few more!

    Do you think they can easily be spray painted? I LOVE the teal color, but it doesn't really match with our family room decor and white would just blend in with our white Expedit. i've never spray painted anything so not sure if it would work for these baskets.

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    1. Not sure - they have spray paint for plastic, which I have used on planters and it has held up to planting and outdoor weather really well. So maybe? I would just make sure that if you do spray them, you do a few light coats and then let the paint fully cure before using them. Maybe even add a protecting clear coat...

      xoxo!
      Jen

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  35. LOVE.

    I would not bother with floor cushions for two reasons: 1) your pillows will get used AS floor cushions whether you plan on it or not, and 2) tripping hazard, especially around the table corners (ow!)

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    Replies
    1. I agree, it has to be something safe for the munchkins! <3

      xoxo,
      Jen

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  36. Oh awesome!!!! I love it! I love the green. When I saw that in your choices above, it really jumped out. It was a great choice. I would also have driven around to all the different Targets! :)

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  37. No wonder I have been loving this room, I got a huge surprise when I saw your accent pillows today. I have been swooning over the fabric for months in fact it is on my list of things to purchase for my son's room and featured in his inspiration board. http://chaoticallycreative.com/2012/03/06/judes-room-mood-board/ I love what you have done here! So many ideas I just don't know what to use from this post. Lesley

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  38. The baskets look great! I love how large they are.

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  39. Your playroom is coming together and I love it! I love the basket... I didn't know it was on sale...have to check it out. Thanks!

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  40. anxiously awaiting Ikea to open here... few more months.. my friend tells me the walls are up now! :) I'll have to drive by. :)

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    1. I am excited for you! Ours is under construction right now and hardly has any inventory, I have been freaking out!

      xoxo,
      Jen

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  41. I am so in Love with your playroom!!

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  42. Wow. I have to admit to having a craving for wicker baskets so agreed with choice number 3 until I read down to the price - eek. $6 each for those green ones though - what a bargain. And LOL about you driving around various stores! The overall effect is amazing. What do you have planned for the walls? Shelves, hooks for drawstring playmats, blackboard paint, a Lego wall?? I've got all these ideas - I'll get there one day!

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  43. I love how your playroom turned out. You projects are always an inspiration.

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  44. Jen it looks so great in there all ready! I'm working (at a much slower pace) on our girls' playroom and I love looking at your post about the one your creating for your boys. I think the green baskets keep the space looking fun and kid like (even though I too love a natural woven basket). Can't wait to see the rest! Thanks for the beautiful inspiration. :)

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  45. I love the amount of storage space this created!

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  46. I LOVE everything about this room, I guess the boys love to play in it. The pillows are also supercute as they combine the green and the blue so perfectly. I LOVE the owl pillow! ;)
    Jule

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  47. So glad you posted about the baskets being on sale! I'm going to stop by my Target on the way home and see if they have any left.

    I do have one question about the bench. It doesn't look very deep, so if you sit with the pillows behind your back it looks like you would be sitting very close to the edge. Maybe the scale is different in the picture. It's absolutely gorgeous, but I'm just wondering how much you can recline on it or if you will just sit up straight--if that makes sense.

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    1. For adults, you have to sit up pretty straight unless you use the corner to recline. But for the kids, it works great since they have itty bitty bottoms. And when they have playdates, they can line a whole slew of them up!

      xoxo,
      Jen

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  48. Oh, I love how the room is coming together!! The baskets really give a nice burst of color without being too overwhelming. I must say that the light fixture is amazing!! I can't wait to see the finished room!! Thanks for sharing :)

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  49. I love the baskets. They are the perfect addition to this awesome playroom. How fun it would be to play in! Heck, it would even be fun to clean up the toys in this room. Well done! As with everything you do!!!

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  50. I love those baskets too! I have some smaller ones I recently used in my linen closet. I'm going to have to check if my Target has any of these on clearance! I think that's a great price for them. They will last a long long time! :)
    ~Angela
    sunnysweetlife.blogspot.com

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  51. Oh I am excited to hear that those baskets are on clearance--I have been eyeing them in the target stores for awhile now, but just couldn't bite the bullet on the price. I will have to check them out!

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  52. THIS ROOM IS SPECTACULAR!!! :)

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  53. I love the baskets. After reading your post I went to my target...but they are still regular price. I'll have to check back next week.

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  54. This looks so amazing. What an inspiration!

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  55. Major SCORE!! It was meant to be -- the green make everything look balanced~ Score another step in your room's progress~~

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  56. great baskets. and i really think they give a cohesive look to that whole bench/toy storage area!

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  57. If you wanted to give it a natural "look" you could always paint them a brown finish but with the green in the seating I think they look great. $60 for all 10 is a steal. I spent almost that much on 4 of something similar to option number 3 for my new sofa table.

    xoxo,
    Melissa

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  58. Oh, love this! So creative and i love the colors you chose. So inspiring. And I think $6 for those giant baskets was a pretty good deal.

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  59. In the future (I'm not affiliated with this store in any way - I just happened to find it when I was in need of baskets) something similar to #3 can be found here: http://www.cymax.com/Winsome-Small-Wired-Baskets-Set-of-3-92310.htm

    I love the green though, I think it's a perfect match for what you are doing in that room!!

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  60. Love what you chose for the toy storage. I've been hunting down the teal ones for our entryway. Sadly they aren't on clearance in any toargets near me - they are actually gone! I was wondering though if they are the large baskets or the extra large? I saw online both sizes and you can buy 4 XL for about $47. Before I purchase I'd love to know so they fit in my Expedit. Thanks in advance.

    Eileen

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  61. Those are perfect! I saw those exact baskets when I was in California a week back and spent a good 5 minutes staring at them trying to figure out how I could wedge them into my suitcase without the airline crushing them. Had to sadly walk away. I'm in Canada so no Targets here yet.

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  62. I know I shouldn't covet but this playroom is beautiful!! I am pinning this so I can replicate it in our new house. (I can copy designs like nobody's business!)

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  63. This room looks GREAT!! Oh if only Canada had Target!
    Sandra

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  64. i love this room it is amazing how many toys the baskets can hold

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  65. Girl, you did it again. Huge score and I LOVE them. I actually really like the green right under the green. It is a nice cohesive look. You are knocking this one out of the ballpark. So nice to have all the toys in one spot.

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  66. Oh My goodness!!! That playroom is looking AMAZING!!! Love Love Love the green baskets!
    Ashli

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  67. This looks INCREDIBLE! You've totally inspired me to do this in our basement/craft/play area where legos usually cover teh floor. AND, I just scored a big roll of 3" foam for just $6! I'm TOTALLY using this idea :-) Right now it's painted red and gold....but I like your bright cherful colors much better. Hmmm....that's getting to be a big project.....but you've completely inspired me! Thanks!

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  68. I love it! It looks so clean and modern!

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  69. I love that you went with the green- it looks great in the room! So funny about driving to multiple stores- totally have done that! Also, my son has that same monkey and sleeps with it every night:)

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  70. I am a basket fanatic too; to find what you want in the color you need is beyond awesome; I would have driven all over the world too; or shopped online :)

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  71. I love tose baskets! I use one in my bathroom to corral all the bath toys, since it kind of drains as well!

    Jessica
    stayathomeista.com

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  72. Have you seen these floor cushions from UO? I'm in love, I've had my eye on the turquoise one for awhile! I think they are perfect kids seating!

    http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=18428151&color=046&itemdescription=true&navAction=jump&search=true&isProduct=true&parentid=A_DEC_PILLOWS

    The bench turned out great! I love reading your blog- all of your rooms and projects are so inspiring!

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  73. Haha! You made me laugh with the last line of your post. I was just thinking, "Hmm...I'm surprised she didn't label them."

    Love this project. It's beautiful!

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  74. Hi I was wondering where the pillow behind the owl pillow is from ?

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  75. LOLOLOL! I was JUST at Target and looking at those same exact baskets! It was all I could do to NOT buy them since I don't have a place in mind for them. I loved the color, texture, size, but had nowhere to use such a lovely basket. Glad you did!

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  76. Must go to Target in the morning and score some of those baskets! Great job. The first thing I thought of when I saw your pics was how fun it would be to make labels for all those containers. Is there a support group for labelaholics like us? :)

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  77. Just saw these at our Target today, but none of the colors are on clearance yet - good to know I need to stop in and check periodically, though! I LOVE all the colors, and I have an Expedit in a guest room that's needing some punches of teal, too. :)

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  78. Good score, Jen! It may seem like a lot of money for baskets, but the organization they will provide will be well worth it. Can't wait to see what else you come up with! It's looking fantastic so far.

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  79. I love it. A playroom is next on our "to do" list. Can't wait to see what the labels will look like.

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  80. Jen you absolutely cease to amaze me! You make it all seem so easy and so very possible. Thanks for the inspiration.

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  81. Oh Jen. I had to laugh at your post. I could just imagine you frantically driving to every Target store for your baskets. I'm so glad you got them all. The fit perfectly. I think that's a good price too. Oh and I saw something really nifty on Pinterest for a floor cushion. You wouldn't even have to sew it. You could join the pillow cases with velcro. http://pinterest.com/pin/233413193157547133/

    Anne xx

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  82. Great update! I so wish we had Target here in the UK. How do you fancy doing another drive around and shipping me some baskets like those?!!

    We've a few of these in the grey spot in our expedit for the kids toys http://www.gltc.co.uk/fcp/product/-/storage_tables_chairs_toy_boxes/Canvas-Storage-Cubes/10000001179

    Just look at the price! Sob!

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  83. Those baskets are perfect paired with the bench cushions! Such a good job :)

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  84. Love your toy room! We just updated ours too! Went with canvas bins in target cube storage with the same target weave/plastic baskets on top! Love! (only mine weren't on clearance!)

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  85. Wow it such a pretty room and so organized. Great job.

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  86. I love what you've done with the playroom and the baskets are perfect! I have one quick question. What is the best way to add labels to a textured basket like the ones you bought? I'm trying to figure out a solution to use in my own home and figured you would be the right person to ask.

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  87. That Ikea light is my fave...I really want it in my home someday!

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  88. I love the outcome of this room, the way the different patterns and colours work together and how you accented everything with cute pillows and accesoires. Also it looks so clean and tidy, might be right out of a picture-book. A picture-book for the organizing lovers ;)

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  89. Aaargh! The only Target I could make it to today didn't have any more! Only the smaller sizes and not a big one in sight. All the smaller ones are still full price, too! What gives, Target??? Gotta do my Target rounds tomorrow! Thanks for the inspiration! I love them!

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  90. LOVE the look Jen! The green baskets look like you had planned it perfectly! Can't wait to see the final result!
    ~Angela

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  91. I have seen those baskets and loved them, but didn't want to pay $12 a piece for them. I will have to check my Target and see if there are any left. Your playroom is looking good!

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  92. I just saw this on Pinterest and I am DYING!!!! I'm officially obsessed with this playroom. :)

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  93. i abolutey love these benches...I do not have a play room in our current house or a corner...but I do have a wall, maybe two I can do this idea in our family room where some toys are...I can't wait for IKEA to put the Expedit shelves on sale :)

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  94. I'm not sure if the one by you would have it but I just bought giant floor pillows at Home Goods for $12 each. They are big and fluffy. I bought white (I know but they are machine washable and they looked so soft). I don't remember what other colors they had but the was navy blue as well which might work for you. At $12 each they are quite a bargain and work great when the kids sit or lay on them. Great Jo o the room it certainly looks fabulous already!

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  95. This is outstanding, loved watching it progress. Good for you getting the baskets on sale too, they really work in the room.

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  96. They look wonderful! And I'd say $60 is great for ten of those babies - I can't imagine I'd find anything like that over here!
    And they go really well with the cushion cover, too! :-)

    Take care,
    Chantelle

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  97. Not sure if you addressed this, in the post or comments, but what is under the "corner" pillow? Would love to do something at our house like this.

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    1. I was wondering the same thing.....????

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    2. Wondering how the bench was made? You can find part one here {http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2012/04/playroom-progress-sweet-seating-part-1.html} and part two here {http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2012/04/playroom-progress-sweet-seating-part-2.html}.

      xoxo,
      Jen

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  98. I love it! Love your blog :)

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  99. I'm sure I would have said this no matter which baskets you ended up with, but I REALLY love the ones you chose!

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  100. I know you are still looking for some pillows and I saw these which might totally rock the bringing the outdoors in theme you have going on.

    There are called Livingstones

    http://design-milk.com/comfy/

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  101. I love this room. Now I need to go find some baskets like that.

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  102. I have wanted to do this with the Trofast toy organizers from Ikea that we bought awhile ago, because they are also sturdy enough to use as a bench. Now I can use your bench cushion tutorial to make one for that! Thanks!

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  103. You are so amazing! I covet this play room! It's even the same colors as my boys room. I really like the baskets you ended up getting. Actually, they were my first choice when I first saw the 5 baskets pictured. I think I'd like to do this to my kids' room. Can I adopt you?

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  104. This is brilliant! Absolutely this post!

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  105. this is J.U.S.T amaziiiiing:)I want to do this,thanks for inspiring this great idea.

    Lusine
    Enjoy Teaching English

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  106. My daughter LOVES this room... said she doesn't "mind that they are not pink" LOL Congrats on a beautiful job. Your organizational skills are truly amazing.

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  107. How did you make the cushions??

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  108. How did you make the cushions??

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  109. I love these benches and we are currently buying a new house that will have a designated play room! So excited!! Do you have somewhere how you made the cushions? Love Love Love!!

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    Replies
    1. Hi Emily!

      I posted a two part tutorial on the bench seat:

      http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2012/04/playroom-progress-sweet-seating-part-1.html

      http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2012/04/playroom-progress-sweet-seating-part-2.html

      Hope that helps!

      xoxo,
      Jen

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  110. Next time there's an item at Target you love but they don't have all that you need, check with a salesperson. They might be able to check other area stores to find out which stores have what you need. That way you don't needlessly run all over the place looking for it. I did this recently so I need exactly which store had what I was looking for. Love the shelves turned into seating!

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  111. I LOVE your organization! In fact I'm dying to do this in my playroom. Just one question for you. What did you do in the corner where your bookcases meet?

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    Replies
    1. Hi Kylie!

      I posted a two part tutorial on the bench seat:

      http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2012/04/playroom-progress-sweet-seating-part-1.html

      http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2012/04/playroom-progress-sweet-seating-part-2.html

      Hope that helps!

      xoxo,
      Jen

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  112. This comment has been removed by the author.

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  113. Jen,
    Thanks for the two links to show me how you supported the corner of your room. It totally makes sense, and might I add......LOOKS AMAZING! Thanks again! Can't wait to show my husband his "new project"!!

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  114. Thank you for this & the tutorial on the bench seat! I've going through this very debate in our master bedroom—we have a similar setup with 2 white expedits along a wall underneath some tall windows. I've been looking for just the right baskets for a while, but I can't quite bring myself to spend > $200 on baskets (eek!) And I love your cushions! They would make for very cosy window seats... This give me just the inspiration. Thanks, Jen!

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  115. This is such a great idea for storage :) We are planning on something similar. One question though, what did you do to fill the space in the corner? The bookshelves look like they are pushed together at their corners so I assume that left a one square area open...am I explaining myself correctly? :) Thanks for the help. Love you website. I'll be coming back many times in the future I'm sure!

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    Replies
    1. Hi Jamie!

      I posted a two part tutorial on the bench seat:

      http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2012/04/playroom-progress-sweet-seating-part-1.html

      http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2012/04/playroom-progress-sweet-seating-part-2.html

      Hope that helps!

      xoxo,
      Jen

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  116. I am so excited to join your blog, you did such a nice job on the play room!! I am going to have to make a bench like that in my nursery. I am due to have a baby in October, so we are working on coming up with lots of different ideas for the nursery, and I think that is going to be a must. :) Thanks for all the Tutorials on everything!!

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  117. Love this seating, fantastic, creative, colorful and FUN! I have 3 boys as well and I know they would love this. One question, where did you get the owl pillow or fabric?

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    Replies
    1. Hi Erin!

      I cut out the owl with my Silhouette and then transferred it onto the blue pillow with an iron {heat transfer material}.

      xoxo,
      Jen

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  118. This is fantastic! We have the giant expedit but I love the seat-cushions on the single row!

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  119. What did you do for the corner where they come together? Are they overlapped?

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  120. Maybe I missed it, but could you tell us where you got the fabric for your bench seat? I LOVE it!

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    Replies
    1. Thanks! Here is the source for you: https://www.fabric.com/ProductDetail.aspx?ProductID=b51d2fb8-160b-477b-9cbb-a225969f11d0

      xoxo,
      Jen

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  121. Hi! I adore everything about this room makeover!!! I am literally drooling at how the stenciled wall came out - just amazing!

    I wanted to let you know that I featured your project on my 13 DIY Green Projects post this evening. You can check it out here:

    http://www.thecolorfulones.com/2012/05/inspirations-13-diy-green-projects.html

    Thanks, and God Bless!
    ~Jess

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  122. love this idea and i am actually doing this in my sunroom/mudroom for shoes football boot helmets all those bits that dont really have a home, it looks fantastic! one question what is in the corner as the ikea cupboards are both 5 squares and the cushion goes right the way along so its got me wondering?

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    Replies
    1. Hi Haley!

      I posted a two part tutorial on the bench seat:

      http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2012/04/playroom-progress-sweet-seating-part-1.html

      http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2012/04/playroom-progress-sweet-seating-part-2.html

      Hope that helps!

      xoxo,
      Jen

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  123. LOVE this! where did you find the top of the bench? (the padded top)

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  124. Hi Jen! I love this idea and am definitely doing this in the play room for my day care kids. I was just wondering what you did in the corner where the book shelves come together. Is there a space in the corner and if so, what did you do to support it under the cushions? I can't wait to get started :)

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    Replies
    1. I posted a two part tutorial on the bench seat:

      http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2012/04/playroom-progress-sweet-seating-part-1.html

      http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2012/04/playroom-progress-sweet-seating-part-2.html

      Hope that helps!

      xoxo,
      Jen

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  125. Hi Jen! You did such a wonderful job transforming a plain old EXPEDIT shelving unit from Ikea into a beautiful and functional storage and seating solution. One quick question for you... after the cushion was added, what was the total height of the bench? I'd love to DIY an EXPEDIT shelf in this same fashion, but am wondering if it will fit under our windowsill once fully "assembled." Thanks!

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  126. I just read your previous posts and found my answer to the question about the open space in the corner. I love how you secured the open space and attached the cushions to the bench. Thanks for the great ideas! :)

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  127. How much weight can the bench support? It's something I'd love to try in our playroom but am curious how you determined that it would be stable enough to support adults sitting on it since it's not the intended purpose.

    Thanks!

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    Replies
    1. Hi Kristin!

      Our IKEA had an Expedit set up as a bench right in the store that we sat on in the display room before we purchased it. We have all been cozy on it, they feel very stable, but you could always check in the store to see if you can take it for a "test" before purchasing it. ;)

      xoxo,
      Jen

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  128. where did you find the cusion for the seats. love this but do not have sewing ability.

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  129. Looks amazing. I'm in awe! Love it so much I've blogged about it over here (www.nooshkids.blogspot.com) hope you don't mind! and of course I linked back ;)
    For extra seating have a look at our Frankie Kids Modular sofas at Noosh.com.au - we've got an amazing alphabet in bamboo that would look gorgeous in there too! Might even be able to arrange you a trade discount (shhh)... Love the blog! Keep up the ah-mazing work!!!!

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  130. How much material did you find you needed for this? Were you able to get 2 lengths out of each yard (I saw it was 54 inches wide)? If that makes any sense! I don't want to have a million extra yards if I don't have to! :)

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    Replies
    1. Hi Allison,

      I used just under three yards total, since I was able to use both benches side by side. Hope that makes sense?

      xoxo,
      Jen

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    2. It sure does! Thanks! I was worried the foam and board would take it over the top. Ordering it TODAY! (Now to get my hubs to take the 4 hour trip to IKEA...and boy is my list long!).

      Allison

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  131. I saw that you posted a link to the green fabric that was used for the bench seating. Do you mind sharing where you got the fabric for the throw pillow that is sitting in between the owl pillow and the monkey? It's hard to see in the photo but I think it's a white, blue, and lime green print.

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    Replies
    1. Hello!
      I found the fabric here on Etsy: www.etsy.com/shop/swankyswell?ref=seller_info

      xoxo,
      Jen

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  132. i really love this idea!! i CAN NOT wait to do this to our new house that has a big finished basement for our kids playroom. im a little confused with the set up?? what did you put in the corner?

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    Replies
    1. Hi Daniela!

      We built support for the corner, you can find that here: http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2012/04/playroom-progress-sweet-seating-part-2.html

      xoxo!
      Jen

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  133. I just love how this is transforming the playroom ! But I have a question about the lamp (Maskros from Ikea, right?): how do you clean it? I mean it is so white and fragile, I can't believe the amount of dust it can hold ... :)
    To be honest, I am just looking for someone that has the lamp and can give me an extra reason to buy it :)

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  134. Of Course ILUV this cause it nourishes my OCD :D

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  135. Beautiful job....as for Artwork...IKEA has inexpensive frames and I used those to frame my daughter artwork masterpieces she has brought home :) and then hung those in her playroom :)

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  136. I found your blog from Pinterest. I absolutely love love love this idea. I want to do it for my boys room. Where the bookselves meet in the corner what did you put under the pillow so they can sit in the corner area if they wanted to? And what pillows did you use? Such a wonderful idea!

    Thanks!
    MJ

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    Replies
    1. Hi MJ,

      We built support for the corner, you can find that here: http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2012/04/playroom-progress-sweet-seating-part-2.html The pillow are a mix and match of slipcovers a friend sewed up for me.

      xoxo!
      Jen

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  137. i love this idea! i'm going to use it in my breakfast area and store small appliances like the blender, mixer, etc. in the baskets. perhaps also some seasonal items like picnic supplies. i'll also use one for filing. girl scout papers, school stuff for the kids, the possibilities are endless. the room is windows on 3 sides, so this will be the perfect bench for two sides of the room. thank you for such an amazing idea!

    ReplyDelete
  138. I just discovered your blog this morning and I think I found a new my newest addiction! We are moving very soon from our quite small apartment to our first house and I plan on using a lot of your ideas. I had two questions about the benches- I have not used idea products often and I see you used a lot throughout your beautiful home- how do find the quality? Specifically with these bookcase/benches? Secondly, I was wondering if you ever had a safety issue if a child were to stand in the corner of the benches where you filled in the gap? My kids love to climb and be rambunctious ;) and it was a small concern. Other than these two questions- I absolutely LOVE this idea and can't wait to use it!! Thank you for all your inspiration!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I meant *ikea products not "idea" :)

      Delete
    2. Hi Jenna!

      IKEA has been very great for us, with three busy boys, we have had no issues with quality, which impresses me and keeps me going back {especially when I can find most things inexpensively and "hack" it.

      We built a sturdy support for the corner and it hasn't given us any concerns at all thus far: http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2012/04/playroom-progress-sweet-seating-part-2.html

      xoxo,
      Jen

      Delete
  139. I just stumbled onto this via Pinterest. What an AMAZING idea! You have a follower for life now. I can't wait to see what you come up with next. :D

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  140. I would love a pattern or a how to demo on the cushions! I LOVE this idea!

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  141. Good idea, beautiful colors and gorgeous design! Is it your carpet is from Ikea? And the floor is "tundra"?

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  142. LOVE this! Was so disappointed when the Target baskets where no longer for sale! Luckily IKEA now has green baskets for $5 each!! Thank you for the wonderful idea!!!

    http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/30219281/#/10221591

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  143. ACK! Do you know the Target baskets aren't available any more? I ordered 12 in black when you first posted this but I need 4 more (our playroom was just finished today--we added onto our house). I'm freaking! We all need to email Target and ask them to bring them back. Maybe you could blog about this -- you know asking your readers to bring them back. They really are great and the fact they fit into the IKEA storage is bonus. I actually wasn't using them in IKEA things...just my own shelves.

    If anyone out there has any black containers they aren't using...please let me know. :) I'd like all my containers to match. Absolutely need 2...would love 4!! :)

    Here's hoping that Target brings them back!

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  144. does anybody know if these baskets are still available especially 4 and 5 ????

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    Replies
    1. I called several Target stores yesterday in my area and they said that it was a seasonal item that is now out of stock. You may be able to find some on clearance, but I haven't had any luck so far. I wanted the large baskets so bad that I bought a set of 4 off of Target.com for 39.99 after my unsuccessful calls. I know that seems like a lot for baskets, but I have several in my house already and I love them. Plus, I was scared they were going to sell out and I was going to miss out. Hope this helps!!!

      http://www.target.com/p/room-essentials-yweave-large-storage-baskets-green-set-of-4/-/A-13946255

      xoxo,
      Kristin

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    2. Hi Kristin, do these smaller size (L) ones fit in the bench width wise? And is there a ton of empty space up on the top once the basket is in the shelf? Thanks!

      Delete
  145. Hi There...I didn't go through all the posts (it's late), but I am wondering how you made the bench the bins go in? Are those book shelves that you laid down and then made a cushion for them? Or were they custom made benches?
    P.S. I LOVE this Idea. I am starting a In Home Day Care and am converting our living room into the center.(our basement is our family room now) YIKES I know! So, I wanted to have a child friendly atmosphere, but with style and elegance. Thanks for this idea!

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    Replies
    1. Never mind... DUH... Expedit shelving..got it... Never fails, I ask then I find!

      Delete
  146. HOw did you make the benches???

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You can find the bench tutorials here:
      http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2012/04/playroom-progress-sweet-seating-part-1.html

      and here:
      http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2012/04/playroom-progress-sweet-seating-part-2.html

      Thanks!
      Jen

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  147. Hi Jen,
    I am totally copying your bench idea for my son's big boy room. I can't wait until it's all done! Thank you for the inspiration. :)
    I am notoriously bad at picking paint colors, can you tell me what that light grey color is? Didn't see it mentioned yet, sorry if I missed it somewhere.
    Thanks!
    Lauren

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    Replies
    1. Hi Lauren!

      The paint color is Behr's Reflecting Pool and I love love it! :)

      xoxo,
      Jen

      Delete
  148. Hi Jen,
    I am working on the playroom myself,i just go the bookcases from Ikea and I am about to put them together:) I was wondering where did you buy the rug from? Thank you so much for your time:)

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  149. THANK YOU so much for your amazing blog! I found your playroom on Pinterest - it's perfect!!

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  150. Hello! Love this idea and am planning on doing something like this in my basement! Have you used the benches for sitting? Do they hold well?

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  151. Where did you find your cushions?

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  152. Where did you find your cushions?

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  153. This is so great! I just bought an Expedit shelf and did this in our bonus room. I got some super cute fabric storage boxes from Target. We have a daughter, so I got the owl, hippo. flower, and two hearts ones. :)

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  154. Hi Jen. This is so awesome! I love your style. I would love to do something like this in my baby's room but I'm not sure it will fit. How big is the room you did this in? We also have oversized windows that go pretty low and I'm wondering if this will be too high. Any chance you could share the measurements (from wall to end on each side and height with the cushion)? Thanks!

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  155. Are the benches really sturdy enough to sit on? I worry about my son as he gets bigger or I sitting on them...

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    Replies
    1. We have all sat on it without problems, but I personally can not state how much total weight should be placed on the Expedit {or how much it can support}.

      xoxo!
      Jen

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  156. hey, i was just wondering how comfortable this is? could i do this in my smaller apartment or is it not really suitable in terms of comfort...?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. and by suitable i mean for a living room seating solution.

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    2. It's great for the kids for sitting or even laying down to watch a movie or grab a book and they have said it is quite cozy. I have sat on it as well, however, I wouldn't necessarily use it for living room seating since it's better suited for little bottoms and doesn't offer back support.

      xoxo!
      Jen

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  157. what is in the corner, or do the bookcases over lap?

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    Replies
    1. found the answer, thanks, Love this idea!

      Delete
  158. I just fell in love with this.. wonder if I could use this in my craft room for storing yarn.. or even a cheaper version.. lets just say you have given me ideas.. smile..

    Michelle
    cattalkbycatsmeow.blogspot.com/

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  159. Can I ask a favor of you? I love these bookshelves (and Ikea, and your playroom and your color choices.). I checked online with Ikea about having the shelves shipped (it's CRIMINAL, but we don't live ANYWHERE near an Ikea!) and it costs $300 for the shipping alone. I laughed loudly and shut my laptop when I saw the numbers. But, I'd love to build them. My mental math is lacking. I have the general dimensions of the shelves from the Ikea website but I'm wondering if you could find the time to measure the sizes of the boards used. The thickness of them, that is. It would help me figure out what lumber I need to get. For both the outsides and shelves. And the exact measurement of the square shelf areas. You mentioned above that they were 13 inches square, but I figured I'd better be sure so I don't saw all my lumber to peices and find that I'm short on one shelf. If you could do that it would really make my day! And my front room where all the toys have COMPLETELY taken over! Thanks so much!
    Rebekah

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  160. Oh yeah, and the cushions. Did you make them or buy them?

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  161. Love the bench idea. Just wanted to mention for anybody looking for cheaper baskets. You can get some Walmart for 6 for $22. They are white but very sturdy and fit perfectly.

    http://www.walmart.com/ip/Sterilite-Tall-Ultra-Basket-Set-of-6/10401032

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