Heads up: this post covers a few different topics. Life has felt a bit scattered in a good way lately, so it’s been harder to shape everything into a single tightly themed post. Instead, here’s a roundup of what’s been keeping us busy.
We say “in a good way” because we’re gaining momentum on a goal we mentioned previously: taking on more off-campus projects that benefit others, not just improving our own spaces. One clear example is the Homearama Showhouse we’re doing for Habitat for Humanity. Alongside that work, we were recently invited to help with a very special project: redesigning a family waiting room at the Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU.
The hospital reached out hoping we could volunteer our time to make the room feel warmer, more homey year-round, and add festive touches for the holiday season. We were excited to help — this space is where many families will spend the holidays while their child is receiving care. As part of a “Spread Cheer” campaign, the hospital entrusted us with the entire room. It’s been an engaging challenge: some elements must remain, some can be changed, and we must always consider safety, sanitation, and maintenance since this is a pediatric medical environment.
Note: the hospital already provides colorful play spaces — a playroom and an arts & crafts area — so this particular room is intended for the whole family. Staff asked for a few playful touches that will appeal to children, while keeping the overall vibe soothing and comfortable for everyone.
Finishing the makeover before the holidays adds urgency: we only had our first meeting last week. Decorating here requires special attention to cleanliness and functionality. Cozy elements we’d use at home, like plush pillows or baskets of toys, aren’t appropriate because they’re difficult to sanitize. Everything must be durable and easy to maintain.
Below is a mood board Sherry put together with our initial ideas. These plans will evolve quickly, given our tight timeline.
1. We convinced U-Fab to donate an armchair from their showroom to create a story-time corner — maybe even a place for Santa if he visits. The upholstery fabric is heavy-duty and durable for public use; although it looks white in the photo, the fabric is actually a wheat-and-blue mix that has held up well in their showroom.
2. After reviewing many paint swatches, we chose a color called Gargoyle for the walls. It complements the existing wood paneling, which must remain for maintenance reasons. The room is well lit, so a slightly deeper, warmer wall color will make the space feel cozier without making it dark.
3. To represent the families who will use this room, the hospital asked us to include both a menorah and a Christmas tree. We can’t use open flames for fire-code reasons, so we’re searching for an electric or battery-operated menorah. The hospital plans to reuse the décor in future years, so choosing durable options now helps long-term.
4. We’d love to hang a cluster of snowflakes in a place that won’t obstruct movement or maintenance access. They don’t have to be gold specifically; we just liked a certain metallic snowflake look as inspiration for a festive, refined touch.
5. We plan to make garlands, inspired by paper garland kits, and involve kids by having them color pieces that we’ll string together. That will create something meaningful and personal for families while keeping materials easy to clean.
6. Three words: twinkle lights. Strategically placed, they’ll add warmth and holiday cheer without creating sanitation issues.
7. U-Fab also offered fabric and labor to make two custom valances for the windows to warm the room visually. Full-length curtains aren’t allowed for safety reasons, but a roman-shade–style valance is a great compromise that still makes the space feel more homey.
8. We thought a faux campfire would be a playful focal point. There’s a recessed area beneath the built-in around the TV that could hold a painted inset piece simulating a cozy fire. Adding stockings on a nearby ledge would complete the fireplace effect while keeping everything safe and removable.
9. We’ll adapt our leaning chalkboard idea into a large hanging chalkboard so kids and families can write holiday wishes and doodles. Chalk is preferred over markers because it’s easier to remove from surfaces and more sanitary to swap out regularly.
10. The hospital requested a tree, and we’ll use a faux one for fire-code compliance. We’re leaning toward a colorful, cheerful aesthetic that brings holiday spirit while maintaining the calming atmosphere the staff asked for.
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The mood board covers roughly half of our to-do list. We’ll also add centerpieces, holiday tablecloths, DIY art, and other details to complete the room. Our goal is to finish within about two weeks, which means everything will move quickly, especially with Thanksgiving approaching. We look forward to sharing the progress, and more than anything we can’t wait to see the reactions of the families who will spend their holidays here. The hospital plans to film a short video of the makeover and the families’ responses — Sherry already has tissues at the ready.