Custom Playhouses for Kids

Something that I have always wanted since I was little was a really large, really cool, very real tree house. Not the makeshift tree house that I built myself with my cousin which consisted of a few wooden planks for seating, some random fabrics for the roof and a rope swing (not all that bad for a 10 year old!) The type of tree house I envisioned was much more Swiss Family Robinson…hmmm, come to think of it, I believe that movie started my tree house obsession. Now that I am all grown up (so to speak) I still do not live in my amazing tree house, and probably never will. Thankfully, I have come to terms with that but only because it would be too impractical with small children. All of this brings me to another type of house that truly captures my attention – children’s playhouses – in a similar way to my beloved tree house dream.

Now, kid’s playhouses today are definitely a little more intricate that what we had when I was a kid. Today, they are custom made, built, painted, and furnished much like a typical house would be. When I see some of these outdoor playhouses, I really do wish for just a short while that I could go back to being little again…to enjoy climbing the indoor staircase into the loft and walk outside onto the balcony. Sounds fabulous, doesn’t it? The best part is that they are scaled-down to be just the right size for girls and boys. The children’s luxury playhouses are the ones that really get me. The details in these villas, cottages, and castles are nothing short of amazing. Yes, you may be thinking that this is all such a waste of money, how can I be going on and on about this. Take a step back for just a moment, and think of how cool it would be to give your child an amazing playhouse completely furnished and designed down to the last detail. Imagine the look on their faces as they wander through the different rooms and flop down on the couch in the sitting room. For most of us a 10 or 20 thousand dollar playhouse is laughable because it is so out of reach and so eccentric – which is okay. But for those of you who can afford an indoor or outdoor custom playhouse, I say go all out and make it a good one! Any child would have the most amazing time as they create so many wonderful memories with their siblings and friends. Just to show you how very far playhouses have come, here are a few of the ones that Rosenberry Rooms carries…I don’t care who you are, when you see these you will be truly amazed!

La Petite Maison Chez Moi – This really is the supreme kids playhouse with the 8 ft ceilings, running water, lighting…they can even install wireless communication within the house. Wait a minute, what? Oh, yes, this is the ultimate childhood experience, and it, of course, comes at a price!

Double Deluxe Playhouse – There is something about the style of this particular house that just makes it so much more fun and exciting. Its like walking into a storybook or joining Alice on her adventures in Wonderland where everything is a little strange and different.

La Petite Maison Garden – This is slightly less decked out than its relative up top, however the details are not lacking by any means. There may not be a foyer or loft area, but you will still find crown molding, a white picket fenced backyard area, custom window boxes…nothing short of amazing!

Now for fun, check out all of the custom playhouses that Rosenberry Rooms carries right here and let yourself imagine life as a kid once again, just with one of these play structures to call your own. Both of these companies will do custom playhouse to your specifications – another way you can keep things fitted to you and your child’s needs! Happy Shopping!

Adriana M Dehring

Custom Wood Furniture: Relics

In the world of quick and easy which we live in, many of us can get discouraged and disheartened with the overall lack of quality we find in the things we buy. I think this is true especially of large purchases like furniture. Let’s be honest, furniture is not cheap, even if you get a lower end brand, you are still going to be dropping a significant amount of money. The sad part is that it will probably fall apart in a couple of years (if you are lucky). So, we continue to take our money and metaphorically burn it left and right, but we have no other choice, right? I mean, our kids need a bed to sleep in, desk to study at, night stand to keep their things on. Don’t they? Of course they do, but that doesn’t mean we have to sacrifice quality or break our bank accounts, either. We just need to know what to look for and where to find it. First of all, know that mass-manufactured furniture is the most common. Chances are, almost every piece of furniture you own or have looked at would fall into this category. Now, there is nothing wrong with buying this type of furniture, however you must realize this will not hold up like the furniture of old…the kind that is probably in your parents or grandparents home…the type of furniture that was made piece by piece and put together one at a time with custom fabrics, at the corner furniture shop that everyone in your neighborhood knew and trusted. Those pieces were made with pride and passion, and there was a certain level of quality that was unspoken but understood. Then we turned into a fast and cheap kind of people. What can we get tomorrow, or better yet, today? It is not common for our generation to be willing to wait a few weeks, let alone months for a piece of furniture. That is ridiculous at best. But the truth is, that these fast and cheap furniture pieces are often made and shipped from another country, where it is just one of thousands, with no personal attention or care given to any part of the building process.

Because of this, I have a special love for a great custom wood furniture company named Relics. Each piece of their furniture is bench made, meaning very simply, that it goes back to how quality furniture was made many years ago. Think of a wood pile slowly being carved, finished, painted and fitted together to create a bed, bookshelf or night stand. That is Relics. They can customize the size of any of their pieces, because they are making them literally from scratch. They have plenty of colors for you to choose from, and will even do any Benjamin Moore paint color for a small price. Talk about custom made furniture, I don’t think it gets any better than that. I think that Relics truly is a company dedicated to creating quality furniture that you love. The owner is involved in the entire process and oversees everything first-hand to be sure that it meets his own personal standards. Each piece of furniture goes through a multiple point check process to make sure nothing has been overlooked. Quality with great style is something worth spending your money on, especially with children’s furniture. You know a solid wood piece of furniture will last the wear and tear you and your kids will put it through. Now, let’s look at a few of their furniture pieces (my favorites, of course!) so that you can decide for yourself how great each piece is!

Lily Rae Bed – The appeal fo this bed for me is that it is simple but feminine, giving parents incredible versatility. If you have a girl who loves frills and ornate things, or one that likes modern, sleek lines – this bed (and bedroom set) will work for every design style.

Beadboard Bookcase – This is one of their most common pieces because it has a universal appeal and fits in with other styles of furniture. Beadboard is classic and looks great especially in a little boy’s room.

Spindle Armoire – Just look at the detailing in this piece…fantastic! I love how they have taken a basic piece of furniture and added so much visual appeal with the spindle detailing and the cut out door.

Wonderland Bed – Every time I see this bed, I feel like I have just jumped into a storybook, which is what makes this such a fun piece for a little girl or boys room. This bed has amazing charm and appeal…cant you just imagine how fun this piece would be for your child?

Be sure to check out the entire Relics line here, and remember, each of these pieces is completely customizable making them the perfect fit for your home! Happy Shopping!

Adriana M Dehring

Baby’s First Bed – Moses Baskets, Cradles and Bassinets

I wanted to highlight some of the options parents have for adorable Moses baskets, cradles, and bassinets, since these are the first things that will greet baby home from the hospital. Not everyone I know opts for these “first beds” but there are definite advantages to each of them, which I want to highlight.

Moses baskets are amazing because of their portability and how they keep baby snug and comfy wherever you are. You can safely sleep baby in a Moses basket until about 15 lbs which is a decent amount of time to justify the purchase. They are one of the best transitions for baby because they feel secure and safe, and they are great for mom because they move from bedroom to living room to basement with ease. Obviously you shouldn’t do things like carry baby in the Moses basket, set it on the edge of a bed, etc…but other than those obvious safety issues, a Moses basket is a wonderful first bed and great gift option for any new parent. Look at this adorable Etoile Green Moses Basket by Hoohobbers, perfect for either baby boy or girl – you get a duvet style washable bumper, pillow sham-like sheet, basket pad and blanket. Plus, you have the option to personalize it and purchase a matching doll basket!

Another option to greet baby home is a cradle, which always makes me think of life a couple of generations ago. Can’t you just picture your grandmother or great-grandmother knitting and gently rocking baby in a cradle with her foot? There is something very nostalgic for me about cradles, but that doesn’t mean they do not have a place for modern day parents. Cradles usually take a baby through to around 25 lbs, which makes them the perfect partner to a Moses basket. Again, one of the benefits is that they are still small enough to make baby feel safe and cozy, but they also are a great space saver. If you plan on having baby in your room initially, a crib often is large and takes up too much room for the temporary placement, so opting for a cradle is much more convenient for mom and dad. You don’t have to rearrange your entire room and almost as portable as a Moses basket. I love this greenEarth Sleigh Cradle by Green Frog Art – it is sleek and classy and completely Earth-friendly!

Lastly, I will mention bassinets which are basically a cross between a Moses Basket and a cradle. While cradles are built like mini cribs, bassinets are usually completely closed in and many actually are built with wheels, making them very easy to move from room to room. One of my favorite bassinets is the Cortina Bassinet set which looks so plush a cozy, I am sure any baby would sleep wonderfully.

Check out the Moses Baskets, Cradles, and Bassinet that Rosenberry Rooms offers. You will find traditional and modern styles and everything in the middle – guaranteeing that you will find the perfect first bed for baby.

Adriana Dehring

Special Feature of the Week – myHaven Daybed by Young America by Stanley

myHaven Daybed by Young America by Stanley

My chosen special feature this week is this beautiful daybed by Young America by Stanley. I am looking forward to a long beach vacation with my family and this daybed would be the perfect addition to our beach house. Available in a wide variety of luxurious colors from pastels to brilliant hues, this daybed would be wonderful in either a girls bedroom or a boys bedroom.

Another thing I love about this bedroom set is that is solid and stylish for use for many years as my children grow. Choosing childrens’ bedroom furniture is a careful decision, an investment in your child’s environment and setting the stage for sweet dreams and lots of cuddling. The myHave Daybed is not too childish, nor too adult in its sturdy construction. I am a big fan of the daybed style as my children feel snuggled into their bed inside the high backings. Children will also love the color selection and find one perfect for their developing bedroom design tastes.

A fun feature available with this bedroom set in the underbed trundle – perfect for sleepovers! Also available with a storage unit that provides kids the opportunity to help out and clean up their own bedroom by offering a fun place to store all their toys.

This item also has FREE shipping at RosenberryRooms.com with White Glove Delivery Service!

If you are looking for a childrens’ bedroom set that will last the years with ornate design and beautiful construction, the myHaven Daybed may just be the perfect bedroom set for your child.

Read more details about the MyHaven Daybed at RosenberryRooms.com

- Amber

Special Feature of the Week – Isabella Vanity And Computer Desk by Young America by Stanley

Isabella Vanity And Computer Desk by Young America by Stanley

My little girl turned eight years old this week and all she wanted was a new desk for her room. It appears that eight is the magical age where little girls in pigtails suddenly decide they are too ‘old’ for many things. Much too big and much too wise for the little girl desk currently in her bedroom, she talked about nothing else for the last month.

We searched and searched for the best ‘big girl’ desk for her and finally came across this great find – the Isabella Vanity And Computer Desk by Young America by Stanley.

When she came into her room on her birthday after school she went ga-ga! For the first time ever, she was excited to do her homework! She loved everything about the Isabella Desk including the large desktop space, the elegant design work and elaborate detail woodwork. I love the unique pieces in a decorative white distressed finish with fluted round posts, turned bun feet and soft curves throughout. The pale decorative striping and light dusting add depth and interest to the finish, while accents of pink or blue toile fabric complete the beautiful look. This gorgeous piece of girls bedroom furniture transforms her bedroom into a place of delight.

The Vanity/Computer Desk features four drawers, drop-lid front keyboard, one stationary shelf and adjustable levelers. We also purchased the optional powder blue cushion and desk chair – a complete ensemble.

One other thing that Mommy and Daddy loved about this desk – FREE shipping!

 - Amber

Choosing Practical Nursery Furniture

You are counting down the days until a new little life will join your family, and it seems like they just don’t go by fast enough. Then you walk into the nursery (or former-storage-space-soon-to-become-the-nursery) and there is a slight wave of panic. Nothing is ready. You realize you still have to decide on furniture, bedding, window treatments, and décor – basically everything. But at least the paint is done…that is a big thing, right? And it is such an awesome shade of blue…hopefully…you stare at the unopened gallon sitting on the floor. Panic. Oh, where to begin at this point, how to choose the right furniture without spending money on something that only gets used for a few months, or is that just what everyone does? The answers and ultimately the decisions are far easier than it seems in this overwhelming hormonal state you may be in. I will highlight the nursery furniture pieces that I think are essential, functional and will transitional when baby becomes toddler and his needs change.

Instead of going into details regarding the obvious piece of furniture that every nursery needs, I will just reference you to my last article Some Easy tips on Choosing the Right Crib. I outline certain things to look for, options, styles, types to give you a little more insight when choosing your crib.

Next, let’s talk about the changing table. I never used one, I know many people who never used one either, but I also know many people who would NEVER have survived without one. So…I would say this is personal preference. Don’t feel as if you need to buy a changing table because you don’t. Personally, I find them to be difficult to use once baby gets active and starts kicking and twisting, so for me the floor is much easier. And, once baby is grown, the changing table can’t really move onwards and upwards unless it is to the garage or storage room. I would suggest instead on purchasing a dresser that has an optional changing tray that either sits on top or is attached but removable. These are so common now that you may find this easier than just a typical changing table. With this piece you will get your storage, place to change baby, and added bonus of it transitioning with baby right into the big kid room.

The one piece of furniture that I did not have, that I wish I had is typically not one many new parents think of – a glider. New baby = sleepless nights, multiple nighttime feedings, diaper changes, story time, nap times, and then everything in between. That is a lot of time in the nursery, so have some seating that you don’t mind spending hours in. A glider is the ideal furniture piece and is as essential as the crib, just more for mom and dad than baby. The best part is that the glider can also transition to the big kid room because there will still be many more years of cuddling up with your now toddler to read books before bedtime, or soothing him when he wakes up sick in the night.

The last thing I will touch on that I think is an essential piece for the nursery is actually two pieces working together. It seems simple enough, but everyone should have a side table or end table with a small lamp. We know lighting is always essential, but for the nursery make sure you keep the wattage really low – this is only secondary room lighting and should not be bright like the ceiling fixture. Obviously the table itself will easily transition out of the nursery with all the other pieces, so you are addressing both a current and future need.

Look at the great selection of Nursery Furniture at Rosenberry Rooms and for some great options for gliders. Don’t forget amidst all the chaos to have fun and enjoy the decorating!

Adriana Dehring

Easy Tips for Choosing the Right Crib

I don’t think I can stress how important the crib purchase is for both baby and parents alike. Obviously it will be baby’s first “official” bed (I exclude cradles and Moses baskets bc they are so temporary), however it also will be one of the few pieces of furniture that mom and dad will have to utilize every day for many months and probably years. So, not only should it be sturdy and get an “A+” in the area of safety standards, it should also be the right fit for the parents who are purchasing it. Here are a couple of things to think about (if you haven’t already) that will hopefully make it easier for you to make this first and all-important decision.

1. Consult Your Wallet First
We all want to imagine that when we start prepping for baby, we will not have any restrictions and only the best will do. And, to an extent all these things are all true however, let’s also be honest. The crib is just one part of what you need to purchase for baby, so a practical look at the big picture will help you set a realistic and feasible price point…just be sure to stick to it. I would say that cribs fall into these three price ranges:  under 500.00; 500-900.00; 900.00 and up.

2. Focus on Quality
I am a firm believer that you get what you pay for, however I don’t think you have to spend a grand on a crib in order to get a quality piece of furniture  (hey, if you can and you want to, then go for it!) Use your good judgment to see if it has the features of quality furniture (the same standards you would use for the rest of your home). If you don’t trust your judgment, then look at a few cribs that fall in the middle price range that I gave (500.00-900.00) and see what structural features they have – then compare to ones you may have on your list and see how they add up.

3. Realize Your Options
The first and obvious option you have is a choice between wood, iron, or combination wood and metal crib. Beyond that, there are a couple of other great options that you may not be aware of, like choosing a convertible (also called lifetime or built to grow) cribs which are basically an all-in-one…first a crib, then a toddler bed, then a twin or full bed. You can also decide to really break with tradition and purchase a round or oval crib instead of the typical rectangular.

4. Forget Trekking All Over Town
Before you start running all over town especially since you probably already have a large belly, stop to think how much easier it would be to do your preliminary shopping online. You can get a feel for what is out there, and even email different merchants to get more product details all from the comfort of your couch! Then once you have all of the information, you can decide which crib fits your specific needs. Just remember to ask any questions you may have – it is the job of online retailers to have a vast knowledge of their products, so you might as well tap into that and make a well-informed decision.

All that being said, be sure to have fun and enjoy the experience! Too many things can get stressful during the preparations for baby, so I hope these little “tips” will make this one aspect just a little bit easier!

Adriana Dehring

Fun, Earth-Friendly, & Hip Playroom Furnishings

Having recently celebrated Earth Day, I wanted to focus on a great kids’ product line that gives you all the pieces needed to create an earth friendly and oh so hip playroom for your kids. When I first saw ecotots’ art easel I was actually jealous that I was no longer a kid…then I took a deep breath and thought perhaps I should buy it for my own kids and live vicariously through them even though that isn’t quite as fun. Either way, I think if you are looking for great products that are earth-friendly, very unique but still sturdy and well-made then the ecotots line is for you. Made in the USA, non-toxic and water-based stains, no tools assembly, and a lifetime construction guarantee are just a few highlights of this line. I was drawn in not only by the art easel, but the color of their “leaf” finish. Obviously I have a thing for green, so this is no surprise, but I also think all four of their color choices actually enhance the line – they are the best combination of fresh and unique with just enough touch of modern.

The ecotots line covers all the basic pieces you are probably looking for like a table and chairs set, desk, step stool, and bookshelf. But they also have some really fun and different pieces like their art easel, locker, book caddy and surfboard growth chart. Personally, I am picturing my girl’s playroom now, and these are the pieces that I would love to see in there (all in leaf, of course, but I will show you examples of their other finishes so you get more of an idea of their full line!):

Art Time Easel – so they can express themselves and let their inner artist shine:

Sideboard Storage Unit – hopefully to help keep things organized and clean:

Project Table and Stool Set – I love that they have stools, not chairs…so much easier for kiddies to move around and get in and out:

Bonsai Book Caddy – to house all of their favorite books:

Beach Locker – to hang their art smocks and store their art supplies in some cool metal tins:

Be sure to check out the complete ecotots line on Rosenberry Rooms as well as all the other Earth-Friendly products they offer…

Adriana Dehring

What is a Youth Bed Anyway and How Do I Choose a Good One?

This a common question for parents who think their child may be ready to move out of the crib. There is no prescribed perfect age to move your child out of their crib, but is more dependent on your child’s readiness, size and capacity to climb out of the crib. One rule of thumb, however – when they can climb out – it is time for a Big Kid bed. If this is your first child, you may not be aware of what comes next. Here is a brief informative discussion on what you need to know and your choices. We also handpicked some great youth beds for you to consider:

There are basically two styles of youth beds to choose from – toddler beds and twin beds.

Toddler Beds – Toddler beds are low to the floor and sized somewhere in between a twin bed and a crib. They are not only the right size for a toddler or young child, but they also come in a wide variety of designs that will almost guarantee that you’ll find just what you’re looking for. Toddler beds have become incredibly popular over that past couple years, which has made them incredibly easy to find and at very reasonable prices. Toddler beds can be great for a while, but will have to be replaced as the child grows. This style of youth bed can be found in sturdy wood or metal designs that will last through multiple children and many years.

Twin Beds – Twin beds can be a great choice, but can be a big jump right out of a crib. Most people are familiar with the basics of a twin bed, but thanks to the overwhelming demand, there have been a number of new and innovative designs put on the market in recent years. You can find everything from a traditional slat poster or sleigh style bed, to a whimsical, colorful masterpiece that your child is sure to love. Loft beds, bunk beds, and captain’s beds are just a few of the other styles you can choose from. Many of them offer such things as: trundles for your overnight guests, extra storage space for your never-ending supply of clothes and toys, or guard rails to prevent children from falling off during the night.

Here are 3 of our best-selling and customer favorite youth beds that you may want to consider. At RosenberryRooms.com we have many choices in all price ranges and are always happy to assist you with your selection.

The Isabella Twin Over Full Bunk Bed by Young America by Stanley is the premier brand of youth furniture for consumers looking for sophisticated style, innovative flexibility and lasting quality. This piece is fun and unique, ensuring an easy and smooth transition to a big kid bed.

Austin Low Loft Bed by Lea Children’s Furniture has boys in mind, featuring a simple, strong and sturdy design. I like this bed as it is reasonably priced and is a space saver with built-in drawers and storage for toys.

The Harmony Espresso Louis Philippe Panel Bed by Young America by Stanley offers a classic style and supreme long-lasting quality.

Shop for more great youth beds at RosenberryRooms.com

Amazing Serena & Lily Gliders

As if Serena and Lily didn’t amaze us enough with their children’s bedding lines, they had to go and create additional décor items for the complete look: lamps, rugs, pillows, and yes, even paint. Now most companies would stop there, but for Serena and Lily, they had to truly amaze us and capture us yet again with a line of gliders. Yes, gliders – the ideal and essential piece of furniture that EVERY nursery should have.

Moms spend as much time as their little bundles of joy in the nursery that they so carefully and creatively pieced together. That is why a glider (and ottoman) is the one piece that truly is just for mom: nighttime feedings and diaper changes; the many nights when baby is sick and wants only to be held; daytime reading with all the classic first books, not to mention the other “voluntary” moments a mother (and father) spend with their little one peacefully gazing at their incredible beauty and perfection. Without a glider, a nursery is basically incomplete, and for that reason Serena and Lily wisely extended their line to include these comfy, practical and stylish furniture pieces.

Of course, each one coordinates with their bedding sets and other decorative pieces, however even if you have a completely decorated nursery unrelated to Serena and Lily the possibilities are definitely still there. The color combinations they offer are still timeless and classic although incredibly unique allowing you to choose your own special combination of fabric and piping in two fabulous styles of gliders: Ashbury and Hayes. The Hayes has a slightly lower back and rounded armrests but other than that, their construction is the same. Each glider is custom made once it is ordered, making the quality far superior than many others you will find on the market today. Meant to last for many years, Serena and Lily gliders are stylish, durable and such a treat for mom and dad while adding to the overall décor of baby’s nursery.

Check out all these great Serena and Lily gliders that can be found on RosenberryRooms.com along with a couple of my personal favorites listed below. Once you see all the beautiful fabric combinations that they offer, you will become a fan of everything Serena and Lily…it’s almost impossible to resist!

Serena and Lily Rex Glider
Serena and Lily Wren Glider
Serena and Lily Charlotte Glider