The last time we updated Sloan’s bedroom, it was when we transitioned her from a crib to a “big girl bed.” Otherwise, the room had remained virtually the same as when I initially designed her nursery, back when I was pregnant and eagerly anticipating her arrival. However, as Sloan grew, I knew it was time to create a space where she could not only grow but truly enjoy spending time. That’s when I reached out to Katie Hodges to help transform her room into something special.
It’s funny—my mom and I joke that even we would be thrilled to have Sloan’s new bedroom as our own. The goal was to blend Sloan’s personality with a design that could evolve as she did. Sloan’s favorite color, purple, became a key element in the design. We also wanted to ensure there was plenty of space for her toys, which, as anyone with a young child knows, often seem to spill into every corner of the room. Of course, in preparation for the photo shoot, we temporarily cleared out her kitchenette, overflowing basket of stuffed animals, and her beloved oversized unicorn, but the idea was to create a flexible and functional space that would grow with her.
Katie’s design truly captured the essence of what we were hoping for. Not only did she create a room that felt vibrant and inviting, but she also incorporated practical elements that would serve Sloan as she grew. One of the most remarkable additions was the built-in desk and cabinetry. At the time, we had no idea how much time Sloan would spend there. Enter COVID-19 and virtual schooling, and suddenly this space became a crucial part of her daily routine.
What’s interesting is how much of a positive shift we noticed once Sloan transitioned from working at the kitchen counter to using her own dedicated space in her bedroom. It was like a switch flipped. She became so much more engaged and focused on her tasks. It’s incredible to think that this space, which was originally intended for creative play, has turned into an essential area for learning and personal growth. I’m eager to see how Sloan will continue to use her room as she moves into her teens and beyond, adapting to new phases of life while maintaining the comfort and sense of ownership she has now.
Katie truly created a space that is more than just a bedroom. It’s a reflection of Sloan’s personality, a space for both play and learning, and a room that will continue to evolve with her. And while it’s temporarily tidy for the photo shoot, we know that the room’s real charm lies in its ability to grow and flex with Sloan as she moves through the various stages of childhood.
