Real Room: A Playful Space for Tom

The opportunity to design a custom mural for this playful bedroom was a dream come true for Sandy Folder of boutique design agency, MINI CASA. Working closely with her clients to understand their personality and hobbies, Sandy has created a truly unique and interactive space for a curious little boy.

Egg Picnic Mural
Sulphur-crested cockatoo mural by Sydney-based design studio Eggpicnic

What was the brief for this room?

“It was important to create a fun space for this curious little boy. The client wanted a cohesive design that reflected their son’s personality. In addition to this, a selection of furniture that was timeless and durable so it would last into adulthood.”

Tell us how this room came together and a bit about your design process? 

“I love having my clients involved in the design process because it is important to allow their personalities to be captured. This bedroom is a reflection of Tom’s interests and hobbies and an authentic space for him to enjoy for many years. Due to the large size of the bedroom, I was able to use a double bed whilst still creating zones for him to play, read and sleep.”

Mini Casa Chalk Mural
The stunning hand-drawn chalk art by Cheryl McLean from Blackboard Art

How did you ensure the room was as functional as it is beautiful?

The colour box bed from Lilly and Lolly is extremely strong and sturdy, perfect for energetic little ones who love jumping on their beds! I love the option of being able to customise furniture for kid’s rooms. In this case, the bed frame was altered by removing the bed-end. Further to this, I added a glass top to the desk to protect the timber which makes it easy to wipe down any marks or spills. The built-in bookshelves are perfect to store Tom’s favourite books and showcase his Lego builds.”

We love the bold choice of wall art in this room!

“MINI CASA engaged Sydney-based design studio, Eggpicnic to design a statement mural for behind the bed. A sulphur-crested cockatoo mural was the perfect choice for the theme. The mural was printed on Photo Tex for easy removal down the track.”

Built-in bookcase houses favourite books and LEGO creations
Desk space for creative pursuits, customised with glass benchtop

How did you select the colour palette?

“Understanding colour psychology is important to me – in particular, how colour can influence our mood and how we feel. Inspired by Tom’s love of the outdoors, I selected a blue paint colour to represent the sky and to create a sense of calm.”

What is your favourite feature in the room and why?

“The hand-drawn chalk mural by Cheryl McLean from Blackboard Art. It was such a pleasure working with Cheryl to develop the artwork concept and design something interactive that stimulates the imagination. Inspired by Tom’s favourite book series, it’s such a unique feature. Cheryl used white paint-pen with a chalk effect to create a permanent drawing of the tree and treehouse which Tom can add to with his own drawings.”

Chalk Blackboard Art Mural
Mural by Cheryl McLean from Blackboard Art, allows Tom to add his personal touch!

Top 3 Instagram accounts?

@lilly_and_lolly

@adairskids

@norsuinteriors

Quickfire Q’s

(Instagram) Fave scroll stopper: Pets! I have three dogs and two cats.

(Design Style) Less is more or more is more: More is more

(Netflix) Can’t switch off: Bridgerton

(Motherhood) Defining parenting moment: The first time I held my first born son.

(Mindfulness) Quote that best sums you up: “Be mindful. Be grateful. Be positive. Be true. Be kind.”

Sandy McLean Mini Casa Chalk Mural
Sandy McLean, Design Principal at MINI CASA

RESOURCES: 

Bed – colour box bed double / Lilly and Lolly, Bedside Table – The Shorty / Mustard Made, Storage baskets – Black and White Storage Collection / Pottery Barn, Desk Chair – Lumi sled chair white and Desk – Colour box desk / both Lilly and Lolly, Bedding – Tanis Velvet Pillowcase / Sage and Clare, Throw – Pom Pom Throw / Dreamy Kidz, Beanbag – Mustard Bean Bag Cover / Sack Me, Lamp – Drew the pencil lamp / Lilly and Lolly, Rug – Atrium black rug / Lilly and Lolly, Pinboard – Yellow round pin board large / Lilly and Lolly, Paint – Dulux Northern Sky.

DESIGNER/STYLIST: Sandy Folder, Design Principal, MINI CASA and follow her work at @minicasainteriors

PHOTOGRAPHER: Maree Homer

Looking for more mural inspo? Click here 

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