5 Things Every Playroom Needs

Sep 04, 2014

No matter how large or small of a space you may live in — if you don’t dedicate a place for a playroom, your entire home will soon be the dedicated toy explosion. The best way to make that not happen? Create a children’s zone that makes kids feel as though it’s their realm, an environment where they are free to play, make a mess and color on the walls without getting a time-out. Not sure just how to do that? Read on for the five playroom essentials to make any size playroom kiddo-friendly.

Dedicating a space in your home to your children’s toys poses a challenge. All the plastic paraphernalia may be sequestered to one place, but keeping it organized can be a struggle, especially if the space is small. Organization tools have to pass both the durability and ease-of-operation tests. The best off-the-shelf option that doesn’t break the bank is IKEA’s Trofast storage combo options ($70+), which comes in multiple sizes and configurations that accepts lots of storage options (baskets, drawers, bins). (via Ikea)

Artwork Display

If you don’t have any space left on the fridge, an alternative is using a curtain wire, such as the IKEA Dignitet ($15). This not only gives your child a place to display their latest production but also decorates the walls of your children’s play space, rather than trying to factor in another pricey art piece in its place. Better to have the authentic stuff by the inhabitants anyway, right? (via Love & Renovations)

Writing on the Walls

Give your children ownership of the room by giving them as few rules as possible. One thing that has always been a no-no is writing on the walls. Chalkboard paint pioneered the no harm, no foul concept. But! Chalk is messy! It gets all over your hands, your clothes and whatever else is in close proximity. IdeaPaint ($225+) solves this messy dilemma. It’s a thin, clear coat that is applied just like paint over the already-painted wall, whatever color it may be. Once the coat dries, you can write on the wall and remove the writing easily, sans mess. IdeaPaint is similar to a dry erase board, so you can use the same dry erase markers and erasers to draw and remove said drawing. (via Getty)

Durable Flooring

Plan for a play mat that is washable or a resilient rug that can handle crayons or a spilled sippy cup, but that is also comfortable to play on. When you have kids, most of the playtime is spent on the floor, starting when they are only a few months old, so establishing a space that is comfortable for you and your children to sit on and play blocks is imperative. (via Brit + Co)

Safety

After you’ve scouted out your kids’ play zone, it’s important to consider their safety. Before you can even believe it, babies can roll over and figure out how to put things in their mouth, so you must take extreme care with what is in reaching distance. All outlets should be covered and no cords or curtain rods/ropes should be hanging down that may cause a problem if you turn your head for even a second. (via Getty)

Designing a playroom of your own? Follow us on Pinterest for more ideas and inspiration.

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These 17 Holiday Decor Finds Will Instantly Make Your Home Cozier

The holidays are here, people – now is the perfect time to gear up your holiday decor game! Luckily, Fortunoff Backyard Store is here to help you get a jump with plenty of holiday decor options like Christmas trees, ornaments, outdoor lighting, wreaths, and charming indoor pieces. We scrolled their entire site and found these 17 total hidden gems that will undeniably fill your home (inside and out) with cheer.

Scroll on for our favorite holiday decor finds from Fortunoff Backyard Store!

Fortunoff Backyard Store

7.5-Foot Norway Spruce Classic Christmas Tree with 800 Twinkling Dual LED Lights

This affordable Christmas tree is at the very top of our holiday decor wishlist. Plus, you can't beat cozy lighting!

Fortunoff Backyard Store

Terrafab Weathered Grey Barrel Gas Fire Pit

Though this gas-powered fire pit will sure come in handy during the cold holiday season, you can definitely still use it in the spring and summer for family bonfires and well into the following fall and winter for s'mores parties. Did we mention it's 64% off right now?!

Fortunoff Backyard Store

8.5-Inch Light Up Musical Water TV with Santa & Sleigh

This adorable battery-powered TV decor piece features a very charming Santa in his sleigh. We love the retro flair! When powered on, Santa's pictured in warm light and plenty of dazzling glitter to some of your favorite Christmas tunes.

Fortunoff Backyard Store

Wooden Triangle Santa Head Advent Calendar

We're all about advent calendars this season. The best part about this Santa design is you can use it year after year. This is definitely a fun and festive way to count down the days until Christmas!

Fortunoff Backyard Store

87-Inch Midnight Gas Pyramid Patio Heater

This 50%-off pick is perfect for keeping your holiday guests warm, especially if your patio or backyard tends to be your main hosting spot. It can cover about 210 square feet for a super cozy effect.

Fortunoff Backyard Store

Indoor Infinity Light Deer

This tiny deer fitted with a fun infinity mirror is ideal for decorating small spaces. You could also display it in your entryway or a front window for a bright and energetic "welcome home!"

Fortunoff Backyard Store

7.5-Foot Fraser Fir Full Christmas Tree with 2800 Twinkling LED Lights

Nothing beats a Christmas tree with some warm lights. They help supply that classic Christmas look we know and love. With pre-strung LED lights, you can spend more time enjoying the season instead of decorating!

Fortunoff Backyard Store

3.4-Foot Natural Reindeer with 360 Warm White LED Lights

Don't worry: we've got some goodies for you, all you yard decorators! This plug-in reindeer is crafted from a rattan material, giving it an unmatched cozy feel. It also comes ready to go with warm white LED lights that'll shine once the sun goes down.

Fortunoff Backyard Store

30-Inch Flocked Noble Fir Wreath with 100 LED Lights

This faux snow-sprinkled wreath looks great on its own with its collection of cozy lights, but you could also fix it up with some ribbons and other playful holiday accoutrement to show off on your front door.

Fortunoff Backyard Store

9-Foot Flocked Noble Fir Garland with 100 LED Lights

The coordinating garland is so gorgeous, too. Hang it across your mantle or along your stairwell to really up the holiday vibes!

Fortunoff Backyard Store

9-Foot Douglas Fir Full Christmas Tree with 4500 Twinkling Dual LED Lights

If you prefer your Christmas and holiday decor to lean more traditional, this is the tree for you. It gives a soft, warm glow that's sure to complement any interior!

Fortunoff Backyard Store

Red Shiny Shatterproof Christmas Ball Ornament

Of course, a Christmas tree wouldn't be a Christmas tree without some ornaments! We love Fortunoff Backyard Store's selection, plus you really can't go wrong with a classic ball shape.

Fortunoff Backyard Store

9-Foot Red and Green Poinsettia Garland

Poinsettias always provide a warm welcome to the holiday season. Embrace Christmastime with a pop of poinsettia blooms placed tastefully throughout this decked-out garland!

Fortunoff Backyard Store

11-Inch Framed Star with 400 Warm White LED Lights

The lights wound around this cheerful star-shaped decor piece have a magical twinkling effect that'll cover your front or back yard with tons of holiday cheer. The 11-inch frame is fitted with 26.2 feet of clear cable, so you can hang it how you really want it.

Fortunoff Backyard Store

4.9 x 6.6-Foot Christmas LED Warm White Net Light

Net lights like these are the premier choice for decorating your yard's shrubs and bushes. They're extremely easy to install, plus the net construction ensures your lights are always evenly distributed.

Fortunoff Backyard Store

23.5-Inch Infinity Light Snowman

If jolly's what you're looking for, this handsome little snowman will be the piece to complete this year's holiday decor setup! He can happily sit in a window or on top of your mantle, emitting an eye-catching design all the while.

Fortunoff Backyard Store

4-Inch Glass Mercury Plaid Ball Ornament

Plaid will never go out of style when it comes to holiday decor, as far as we're concerned. Snag a few of these glass ornaments to truly deck out your tree in timeless Christmas spirit!

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This Story About "Protective & Kind" Pedro Pascal Will Restore Your Faith In Men

The entire world fell in love with Pedro Pascal during The Last of Us and The Mandalorian, and even though we won't see him as Reed Richards in the Fantastic 4until next summer, there is PLENTY of content to go around. He's always fangirling over someone's nails or hyping up his family, and Connie Nielsen explaining how Pedro made her feel special on the Gladiator 2 set makes me love him even more (which I didn't know was possible).

Keep reading to see what Connie Nielsen had to say about working with Pedro Pascal on Gladiator 2. TBH, It just might restore your faith in men.

Gladiator 2 follows Paul Mescal's Lucius, who's determined to bring down General Acacius (Pedro Pascal), who he considers responsible for his loss. Connie plays Pedro's onscreen wife Lucilla, and when asked what it was like to share scenes with him, she reveals she felt "really feminine around him."

"He's a protector in a way, and I'm not always used to that," she tells Good Morning America. "So it was kind of special to have that feeling that he was a guy who's protective and kind and just [a] very loving kind of person."

The actress also spilled on how "you can just tell he has this joy and, at the same time, you can also sense that he's been through stuff that's been hard and I just really love a person who responds to what has been hard in life with joy."

Pedro Pascal has been vocal about his family fleeing Chile in the 1970s, and how his parents had to "go into hiding for about six months," and it's clear Connie's proud of the man he's become. "He doesn't become caustic or, you know, entitled," she continues. "He's the least entitled man, always nice to everyone on set. Just a sweetheart of a guy."

Is someone cutting onions?!

For his part, Pedro loved working with Connie too, and, when asked what it was like working together, Pedro immediately responds with, "Power couple."

"We just dove right in," he continues, joking that he "made sure Connie understood that I was her man."

Pedro Pascal always seems to have an encouraging comment or joke ready to make everyone laugh, and revealed to Entertainment Weekly that during an intense battle scene, he actually tripped and landed at Paul Mescal's feet.

"I was running off the drawbridge, and they kind of dressed it with some dust so that when it slams against the fortified wall, there's a big puff of smoke," he says. "And I'm charging off the drawbridge and jumping over the wall, and I slip. I literally bounce off the drawbridge on my —ss and land splat in front of Paul's feet on the first take." Naturally, he followed up with, "Are you not entertained?"

Are you excited to see Connie Nielsen and Pedro Pascal in Gladiator 2? If you're still thinking about the Roman Empire, read up on what What Paul Mescal Had To Say About Gladiator 3.

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Sick Of All-White Decor? This Serene Home Tour Is Perfect For You.

Offering a clean slate of stunning earthy decor is a gorgeous five-bedroom home in LA's Los Feliz hood, tucked in the hills with pine trees and wildlife near the iconic Griffith Park. The home is on the market so it's not yet lived in, which makes it the perfect inspiration for creating a cohesive and modern look that's also clutter-free.

"We’re so sick of all white everything and this house is the perfect antithesis of that," said Sam O'Connor of O'Connor Estates, who helped stage the home after it was beautifully renovated by Ruby and Mike Rubin, design principals at Rubin Studio. "The overall aesthetic is warm and earthy but with the perfect use of color throughout," says Sam.

Keep scrolling to see this gorgeous, earthy LA home tour:

Tessa Neustadt

With a mix of rustic reds, rich greens, and vibrant blues, the home feels inviting and ready for a lucky someone to plant their roots. Budget aside, the inspiration here is worth noting for your 2025 decor and sources come from places like All Modern, Nordic Knots, and HD Buttercup along with vintage pieces too.

"The inspiration for styling was 1970’s Brazilian interiors… Bold, casual and elevated," says Sarah S. Brady, founder of Platform Home. She used an antique rug in the entry from LA's Rose Bowl Flea Market and a large portrait by artist Ali Silverstein.

Tessa Neustadt

Rubin Studio used a Sea Ranch-inspired cedar exterior, and natural materials with interesting textures throughout the home like corks, rough cement tiles, tiles with saturated colors, and cedar, teak, and white oak woods.

Green lovers can take cues from this living room, with saturated green tiles, a Willow Modular Sofa in sage from HD Buttercup, and a Moroccan rug with pops of contrasting yellow by Raha Roho.

Tessa Neustadt

“Going into 2025 we have been seeing a lot of darker tones of browns and deep mauves, including upholstery with interesting texture and rich in tone, plus millwork with darker stains or paint" says Ruby Rubin. Rubin Studios added in custom details with more warmth and character.

Tessa Neustadt

"We created new functional spaces and isolated moments in the walk-through pantry, kitchen, dining room bookshelf, and wet bar," says Mike Rubin of the custom millwork.

Tessa Neustadt

Sam and Claire highlighted the warm earthy tones throughout. "We feel the house is a piece of art and we didn’t want to distract from that. The new dining area is now one of our favorite areas of the home!” Sam says.

Tessa Neustadt

I am 100 percent on board with this green bed in velvet from All Modern. Paired with a jute rug, oak flooring, and mid-century banquette, it's the perfect starter kit for a dreamy bedroom. Vintage art and an iconic Zig Zag chair add personality to already gorgeous design.

Tessa Neustadt

Rubin Studios used a collection of natural honed stone including Jade Quartzite, Quartzite Nero, Calacatta Viola, and Red Travertine that make moments like these interesting, bold, and beautiful throughout.

Tessa Neustadt

The earthy tile and Nickey Kehoe rug continues the green theme from master bedroom to master bath.

Tessa Neustadt

The slate floors, custom millwork, and green tile on the main floor flawlessly complements the trees and views of the home.

Tessa Neustadt

The guest bedroom pairs warm amber tones with natural linens and a jute rug with organic pattern.

Tessa Neustadt

This rosy bathroom is the perfect extension of some of the neutral and warmer tones in the house.

Tessa Neustadt

Here's where olive green meets a burgundy red tile (in the bathroom coming up) to warm up the neutral base.

Tessa Neustadt

Floor-to-ceiling tile makes a beautiful statement in a small bathroom.

Tessa Neustadt

The burgundy marble stone is a stunning complement to the tile above.

Tessa Neustadt

And then there's the rich cobalt blue to surprise and delight with a rug from Nordic Knots. This is the perfect chill spot with wet bar for entertaining. Sign us up!

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

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Um, Zendaya Just Threw A Drink At Someone's Car

Zendaya and Robert Pattinson are currently filming the upcomingA24 film, The Drama, and it's a pair I didn't know I needed! I'm so pumped to see the two of them front and center in the new movie, and not just because the Massachusetts location is giving MAJOR New England autumn vibes. The actors have been spotted walking around the city, hanging out outside an art museum, and even getting into a road rage altercation? Yeah, that definitely sounds like drama to me.

Keep reading for every little detail you need to know about Robert Pattinson and Zendaya's new A24 movie The Drama.

What movie is Robert Pattinson and Zendaya in together?

Brendon Thorne / Getty Images

The Drama Plot

Zendaya and Robert Pattinson's The Drama comes from the mind of Kristoffer Borgli, who most recently directed Dream Scenario starring Nicholas Cage. Borgli is slated to work alongside Ari Aster and Lars Knudsen’s production company Square Peg for the film, so I'm sure it'll be just as thought-provoking and thrilling as some of the other projects they’ve produced (Midsommar, Beau is Afraid, Death of a Unicorn).

Jeff Spicer / Getty Images for Warner Bros.

Given Zendaya and Pattinson’s respective star power, I know this upcoming A24 project is going to be absolutely stunning. Even though we don't have any specific plot details yet, Deadline reported that The Drama tells the story of a couple whose romance takes a (you guessed it) dramatic turn right before their “big day.” Tell me more!!

One thing we do know is that a scene will apparently feature Zendaya's character getting into an altercation with a car while on a walk. The actress went viral for throwing a drink at a passing car, and she's so convincing, one TikTok user said "help i thought this was real for a second i was like omg what is going on."

Who else is in The Drama movie cast?

Gareth Cattermole / Getty Images

The Drama Cast

In addition to Zendaya and Robert Pattinson, we'll see Mamoudou Athie and Alana Haim. Stay tuned for more cast updates.

What else has Zendaya been up to?

Clive Brunskill / Getty Images

Zendaya currently boasts two Emmys from her work in HBO’sEuphoria and has only continued to exhibit her talents in recent feature titles like Dune: Part Two and Challengers. Plus she's finally reuniting with BF Tom Holland in Spider-Man 4and Christopher Nolan's brand new film. Busy gal!

What about Rob?

Alberto E. Rodriguez / Getty Images for CinemaCon

Of course, we all know and love Pattinson for his role as Edward in the Twilight movies, but he’s positioned himself as a truly versatile actor with roles in 2022’s The Batman and Bong Joon Ho’s upcoming sci-fi film, Mickey 17.

Mike Coppola / Getty Images, Francois Durand / Getty Images

The two stars are still in early talks about starring in the film, but Deadline has confirmed that The Drama is a “top priority” at A24 given the success with 2023’s Dream Scenario. And, like, DUH!

Loving this news on Zendaya's The Drama? Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news in movies, TV, and pop culture!

This post has been updated.

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45 Things You Need In Your Home For Better Modern Living

Home is a haven. We all spend so much time in our home every day, whether we work from home or just start and end our days there. Because we spend so much time in our homes, they should be as comfortable as possible and as smart. We've rounded handpicked incredible products, each designed to make your home look and feel as comfortable as possible or to add ease to every room with smart gadgets. Make your home the haven you deserve with these curated products.

Thanks for reading about our favorite finds from across the internet! FYI: We participate in affiliate programs and may get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

Keep the Bathroom Cozy With This Towel Warmer

Amazon

Unlike the towel warmers you've seen before, these towel warming bars are useful whether they're heating or not. Even if you have the warming feature turned on, these bars work as a handy storage rack.

5 Things Every Playroom Needs

Artwork Display

Writing on the Walls

Durable Flooring

Safety

Scroll on for our favorite holiday decor finds from Fortunoff Backyard Store!

Keep reading to see what Connie Nielsen had to say about working with Pedro Pascal on Gladiator 2. TBH, It just might restore your faith in men.

Keep scrolling to see this gorgeous, earthy LA home tour:

Keep reading for every little detail you need to know about Robert Pattinson and Zendaya's new A24 movie The Drama.

What movie is Robert Pattinson and Zendaya in together?

The Drama Plot

Who else is in The Drama movie cast?

The Drama Cast

What else has Zendaya been up to?

What about Rob?

Keep the Bathroom Cozy With This Towel Warmer

Add the Viral Samsung Frame to Your Home

This Folding Sofa Bed Is Great for Smaller Spaces

This Device Keeps Your Fridge Fresher Longer

This Smart Faucet Is Touch-Free

These Outdoor Wall Sconces Add Elegance

This Bathroom Organizing Shelf Keeps You Organized

This Electric Salt and Pepper Set Is a One-Handed Wonder

These Smart Lights Work Under Your Cabinets

This Smart Oven From Breville Is Bite-Sized

This Ergonomic Desk Chair Is Modern and Sleek

Keep Up With Everything With the Echo Hub

This Smart Kettle Makes Tea Time the Best Time

This Smart Bidet Does It All

These Dining Chairs Are Modern and Fun

This Adorable Alarm Adds Modern Charm

This Blink Camera Works Inside or Out

Create a Beautiful Nightscape With This Govee Light

This Mid-Century Modern Chair Is So Comfy

Keep Your Home Cozy With This Dehumidifier

Shed Some Light With These Rechargeable Lamps

This Coffee Table Is Beautiful and Simplistic

Make Delicious Pizzas With This Oven

Upgrade Your Home With the Echo Show 8

Elevate Your Home Office With This Desk

This Wireless Meat Thermometer Saves Your Cooks

This Gold Shelf Is Timeless

This Sleeper Sofa Is a Modern Dream

Turn Anything Smart With These Plugs

These Side Tables Add Some Fun Industrial Style

Minimize Your Food Waste With This Composter

This Console Table Offers Elegant Storage

Organize Your Pantry With These Containers

Elevate Your Entryway With This Side Table

Customize Your Lighting With These Govee Lights

Take Cleaner Breaths With This Purifier

This Beautiful TV Stand Looks Elegant In Your Living Room

You're Going to Love Lounging on This Sectional

Make Streaming an Experience With This Govee Light

This Ceiling Fan Works With Any Decor

This Rechargeable Soap Dispenser Can Be Refilled

With This Coffee Table, Your Office Can Be Anywhere

Lift Any Blinds With the Touch of a Button

This Sideboard Is a Timeless Piece

This Is More Than Just a Planter