Most parents will agree that storage is essential. It's important to keep things your children enjoy playing with in convenient places throughout the home, especially when they are very young. I love the idea of placing these soft woven baskets strategically throughout the living room. Bonus: The baskets can add color and texture to your space.

It's not necessary to only purchase dark upholstery items while raising kids. You can have white furniture if that's what you desire. Just think slipcovers for the sofa and easily washable fabrics like vinyl for heavily used items like ottomans.

Go bold! Living in a home with children gives you a perfect excuse to choose color. In studies, yellow has been shown to make both children and adults feel happier.

Open-concept floor plans are popular with families but that isn't the only reason I chose to include this image. Do you see that lovely silver light arcing over the sofa? What a genius way to add a little sparkle to a very kid friendly space! Parents get their glitz without the risk of tiny fingerprints smudging it up.

Adding floor cushions to your living room will not only give little ones a soft place to land, they can pack a punch. Choose cushions in bright colors and graphic patterns and instantly inject fun into an otherwise neutral space.

Those with a modern aesthetic often complain about the appearance of today's toys. The drawers that flank the fireplace in this image are a great solution. They are just the right height for children and are deep enough for even the bulkiest of plastic toys.

Including some of your children's artwork with some of your favorite art pieces with give your home life and personality. Plus, it will bring a bright smile to the face of anyone who visits.

A simple tip: Choose similar frames to give the arrangement cohesion.

Choose occasional furniture carefully. The rounded corners on this coffee table are more kid friendly than a sharp edge would be. Or perhaps nix the traditional coffee table and select a pair of cushioned ottomans to tie your space together.

More: 20 Great Ways to Display Family Photos

Inspiring Ideas for Kids' Spaces