Young House Love

Home Decorating & DIY Tutorials

| By | | 382 Comments

So Many Holiday Projects

Heads up: this post might be a bit of a smorgasbord. I think it’s because life has been feeling kinda smorgasbordy lately (in a good way) and sometimes it’s hard to organize life into tidy, tightly-themed blog posts when it’s really all over the place behind the scenes…

CHOR Smorgasboard

I say it’s “in a good way” because we feel like we’re really starting to gain momentum around a goal that we mentioned in this post of taking on more “off-campus” projects. In other words, projects that aren’t centered solely around improving our own spaces and, in more than one case, are for a good cause. The Homearama Showhouse that we’re doing for Habitat For Humanity, being the most obvious example of this so far (you can read more about that here and here).

But that’s not the only exciting thing on our plates. We’ve also been invited to help with a very special project: decorating a family waiting room at the Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU!

CHOR Sign

They contacted us in the hopes that we could volunteer our time to warm up the room so it’s more cozy and homey year-round, as well as to add some festive touches for the holiday season. Not only did it sound like a fun project, it had such a deserving purpose that we couldn’t wait to get started. For many of the children in the hospital’s care, this is the space where their family will spend the holiday season. So as part of a “Spread Cheer” campaign, they’ve handed this entire room over to us. It’s already turning out to be a really fun challenge (some things have to stay, some things can change, and of course there are safety/sanitary/maintenance concerns to take into account since it’s a children’s hospital).

CHOR Waiting Room Before

*One thing to note is that the kids have a playroom and an arts & crafts room along with other colorful spaces where they get to hang out, so this room really is for the entire family. The hospital staff asked for some playful touches that include children, but their overall vision is a soothing and homey room that makes everyone feel comfortable and calm.

Getting it done before the holidays is also part of the challenge, considering that we just had our first meeting last week – but we’re getting a fast and furious education in the sensitivities of decorating in a space where not only function, but cleanliness, is paramount. Cozy touches like plush pillows or a basket full of toys are big no-nos because they’re too tough to keep sanitized (things we don’t think twice about in our own house are critical details in a medical environment).

CHOR Waiting Room Before Alt

So here’s a mood board that Sherry tossed together to share a few of our initial ideas with you guys (all of which will evolve as we go, most likely in hyper-speed since we have such a tight turnaround).

CHORmood Board

1.  We somehow convinced our friends at U-fab to help us cozy up the room by donating an armchair from their showroom so we can create a little story time corner – or maybe even a place for Santa to sit, should he choose to visit. The extra heavy upholstery weight fabric is super durable for high use, so it’s great for a public space (although it looks white in this photo, it’s really wheat & blue, and has held up well in their showroom for a while).

2. After going through a bunch of swatches for the walls, we landed on Gargoyle, which works well with the existing wood paneling (for maintenance purposes that has to stay & can’t be painted).  The room’s so well lit that we don’t worry about going a little darker with the walls, in fact we’re excited about the cozy-factor that a slightly deeper and warmer color will bring.

3. To represent all of the families who might be using this room, we’ve been asked to include a menorah as well as a Christmas tree. This candle one is awesome but for fire code reasons we can’t go that route, so we’re on the lookout for something electric or battery operated. Update: although Hanukkah is earlier this year, the hospital is planning to bring this decor out annually, so it’s nice to have everything they’ll need for future years from this initiative.

4. We’d love a flurry of snowflakes hung en masse in a strategic won’t-be-in-the-way spot. They won’t necessarily be gold, we just saw this and thought it was a good representation of that general idea.

5. We’ll definitely be making some garlands. This one from paper source is great inspiration, but we’re thinking of involving the kids so they can color things that we can then string together to make something really meaningful for them.

6. Three words: twinkle lights. Everywhere.

7. U-Fab has also kindly offered to donate some fabric and their time to make two custom valances for the windows in the room – again just to warm things up and make it feel more homey. Our usual floor-length curtain idea isn’t allowed for a slew of safety/fire reasons, but after finding some cool roman-shade-looking-valance designs, we’re really excited. And this fabric was the big winner (here’s a link to the gray version).

8. This cute campfire is just here to represent the idea of a faux fire. There’s a recessed rectangle under the built-in around the TV, and we thought temporarily inserting a piece of wood with a cozy little fire painted on it would be fun for the kids and families. We’ll add some stockings on the mantel to complete the fireplace-like effect.

9. We want to adapt our leaning chalkboard project to create a large hanging one that will allow the kids and families to write holiday wishes and greetings. Can’t you just picture it all filled up with kid doodles and holiday scribble? The hospital staff thinks the children will love something interactive like that, and chalk is preferred because it’s easier to remove from upholstery than markers (and it’s cheaper & easier to switch out regularly for sanitary reasons).

10. Last but not least, they’ve asked for a tree, and we really want to have fun with it. These guys are real (and it has to be faux for fire code reasons) but we’re leaning towards something full of color that mimics this look. We want this room to feel calming, but we also want to inject a nice heaping dose of holiday cheer.

**************************************

The mood board represents around 50% of the stuff on our to-do list, so there will also be centerpieces, holiday tablecloths, DIY art, and a whole bunch of other things in the mix. Our goal is to have the room ready within the next 2-ish weeks… which, thanks to having Thanksgiving in there, means it’s gonna be fast and furious around here. We’re really looking forward to sharing the process with you guys. And most of all, we can’t wait to see the faces of those deserving families who will be spending their holidays there. The hospital has planned to make a little video of the makeover and the kid and family reactions, so Sherry already has her tissues ready…

Comments

  2. Vickie says

    I spent a lot of time in the hospital waiting room with my dad, even sleeping there. A cozy homey waiting room would have been wonderful! Even though I don’t live anywhere close to Richmond, THANK YOU for doing this for the families there who will use the waiting room! This is the true spirit of Christmas.

    Reply

  3. Sara says

    I spent Thanksgiving and Christmas in a Children’s Hospital with a loved one. It was really special. We are lucky enough to still have Noah around still years later. We still talk about the memories and bonds we created those months. I’m thankful that it was around the holidays when staff, doctors and decorators went above and beyond. You guys are awesome. Thanks you for what you are doing! I got all teary eyed just reading this!

    Reply

  4. dawn says

    This will be much appreciated by the families. My two oldest are twins and were born at 29 weeks. We spent 6 and 8 weeks at our NICU. They had a nice space for family but it was filled with office furniture and nothing homey at all. When you spend that much time in the hospital anything that feels like home is so comforting. Thank you from all the moms and dads with children that spend time in the hospital.

    Reply

  5. Abby Kinch says

    You know, you guys just have the kindest hearts. You could be doing things to make more money. And goodness knows you could rake it in! But instead you are donating your time and talent. And that is simply amazing.

    Thank you.

    Reply

  6. Aimee W. says

    Such a fun project! I bought a hot pink 7′ tree from Garden Ridge last year and they have SO many other colors available! Can’t wait to see the reveal!!

    Reply

  7. heather says

    <3 So proud of you guys for doing this. We give to help others without sometimes realizing how much they help heal our own souls, and make us so humbled and feel blessed.

    Reply

  8. Allison R says

    I have been reading this blog for years but have never posted a comment…until today. So happy for you and this project!! As a nurse that works for a Children’s Hospital, I cannot tell you what a difference this room will make! So many families will be touched! Good for you guys for reaching out and giving back!

    Reply

  9. Eilene says

    I spent a lot longer than I wanted to in the NICU family room (at a different Children’s Hospital). It wasn’t even close to cozy. This post made me so happy because a change of atmosphere will really make a difference for those families. What a great holiday project… You will without a doubt be making a huge impact!

    Reply

  10. Susan says

    This is a worthy cause by far. I love the reading corner idea.

    Something that the art teacher in our middle school does is use the ceiling panels ( those boring white things overhead) as canvases-even just a few stars or birds or clouds/whatnot can brighten up the most boring classroom, so it may work in here as well.

    Service to others is really the heart of joy, isn’t it?

    Reply

    • YoungHouseLove says

      Amen! I was just thinking about how much fun it would be to do something to the ceiling, although we have certain no-hanging requirements. But little icy blue star cutouts or something would be fun!

      xo
      s

  11. Sylvia says

    As a mom who unfortunately had to spend about a month in the children’s hospital here in Chicago when my older boy was 14 months old (he’s ok now!) I can tell you how much this is going to be appreciated! I was also 8 months pregnant at the time and even though the hospital is super nice because it’s brand spanking new, it felt cold and sterile. Now I know that’s how hospitals are supposed to feel but even touches like the faux fireplace are going to make a huge difference! We spent Halloween last year in the hospital and the window washers dressed up as superheroes which was awesome but I couldn’t imagine having to be there for Christmas. You guys rock – seriously!

    Reply

    • YoungHouseLove says

      Thanks so much Sylvia! We’re so excited about adding those cozy touches! I can’t imagine spending that much time there, especially at 8 months pregnant. So glad your son is doing awesome now!

      xo
      s

  12. Angela says

    This is so exciting! I work at a state psychiatric hospital and am totally stumped as to how to make the units feel more “homey” while also being safe and meeting hospital safety and sanitary regulations. I’m really looking forward to seeing what you guys do to transform the room!

    Reply

    • YoungHouseLove says

      We’re still working on pinning that down, but yes, we can’t go crazy or anything. Haha! We’re also trying to tap some awesome local companies to see if they’re interested in donating to the cause (like U-Fab who has already so graciously volunteered to cover the cozy upholstered chair for reading and the window shades).

      xo
      s

  14. Dina says

    Looks like a lot of fun! Just a tip – if the purpose of the “Menorah” is for families celebrating Chanukah, make sure you get a Chanukiah (9 branches) not a Menorah (7 branches). The one you linked to is definitely a Chanukiah, but I thought I’d point that out in case you weren’t aware of the difference!

    Reply

    • YoungHouseLove says

      That would be fun! We’ll have to see what they say about that! I think it could work as long as they don’t say they don’t have room for them in here and would prefer them in the playroom.

      xo
      s

  16. Michelle @ A Healthy Mrs says

    What a great project! I bet it will make such a difference for those families that have to spend their holidays in the hospital to have a cozy, inviting place to hang out in! I can’t wait to see what you guys come up with — I know it will be amazing :)

    Reply

  17. Julianne says

    So wonderful of you to donate your talents for such a worthy cause! That’s what we love about you guys…down-to-earth, humble and generous with your talents & heart. Truly inspiring in so many ways. Thank you for reminding us what really matters. Xo

    Reply

  18. Darcy says

    I am soo happy that you guys are doing this!

    My son had a heart defect, and had heart surgery at almost 4months old back in 2010! So, we had to spend a week at our Children’s hospital Denver. They were sooo wonderful there, and thankfully, our Zakk is doing so great now! We are always soo greatful for them and every holiday season I think of that amazing staff that took care of all of us during that time, and of course, I think about the kids and their families, and I always wonder what I could do to help them….so I am soo very grateful to you all for doing something soo wonderful for those families!!

    THANK YOU! THANK YOU!!

    Reply

  19. Saskia says

    Amazing! Such a lovely project and ilm sure you guys will make it look brilliant and beautiful! You are such an inspiration!

    Reply

  20. Aileen says

    As a long time reader, and infrequent commenter- I just wanted to say how awesome I think it is that you are reaching beyond your own home, and getting involved in sharing your expertise with some really cool causes in your community! It’s very refreshing!

    Reply

  21. Jennifer says

    I’m an RN supervisor in California in a Mother/Baby unit, and I know your project will help families feel more at home! One thing to check (if you haven’t already) is the local fire code for decorations. Sometimes they require fire-resistant paper, special lights, etc. In our hospital we can’t hang anything from the ceiling that interferes w/ the integrity of the ceiling tiles. Just sayin’! I know you’ll find ways to make it lovely.

    Reply

  23. Peggy Mckee says

    Regarding upholstered chair from U-fab, is the fabric OK in a hospital? Most hospital upholstery fabrics have a rubberized backing (similar to your previous dining room chair seats).

    Reply

  26. Isabel says

    What a great and deserving project. Our Association’s Foundation (Toy Industry Foundation) donates toys to children in hospitals such as these around the country and from having experienced a few of their toy distributions, I know this will make a huge difference to the families. You both will definitely needs those Kleenex! And just wanted to also say how cute that clock you made for Clara is! That and the globe trotting craft are my favorites thus far :-)

    Reply

  27. Cassie says

    You guys are amazing! I’m sitting here at work fighting back the tears as I read about this and all the stories in the comments. What a wonderful thing to be apart of!

    Reply

  28. Elaissa says

    This is so awesome! I work on an outreach educational enrichment program at CHOAtlanta and making the kids and families smile, melts your heart! Again you guys are awesome!!

    Reply

    • YoungHouseLove says

      That’s such an awesome initiative Elaissa! Thanks for doing that! And you’re so right about the heart-melting. We’re just starting and I’m all teary each time I leave.

      xo
      s

  29. Somer says

    This is wonderful! My daughter had open heart surgery at Children’s in Detroit and this would have been lovely to have! What a great thing to do for the families who are staying there.

    Reply

  30. Elisabeth says

    Perhaps you could include some Star of David or Menorah ornaments on the tree?

    Also, as someone who has volunteered in a children’s hospital and spent a fair amount of time in waiting rooms, this change will be so welcomed by the parents. Many parents are completely stressed out and exhausted. I hope that they are replacing those chairs because they are not comfortable at all. It’d be nice if they had a bunch of settees or love seats in addition to the chairs so people can sit together. (I imagine that might be asking a little too much).

    Also, we made these to use for decoration in our children’s hospital playroom. They’re paper snowflakes that turn out beautifully. Here are the instructions for anyone wanting to make them. http://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-3D-Paper-Snowflake

    I hope you know just how grateful all those families will be for offering up your time and creativity to help them feel more comfortable the holiday season!

    Reply

    • YoungHouseLove says

      Thanks Elisabeth! Someone else recommended the 3D snowflake thing and I’d never seen that! So much fun! There’s a plan for different furniture down the line (well after our update) but I believe they can’t do loveseats or settees because the issue is that people spread out and sleep on them (and then there’s not always room for everyone if one person is sleeping on larger furnishings meant for multiple people). It’s so interesting to learn about their needs! There are so many things we’d never think about!

      xo
      s

  31. Diane says

    This project is such a beautiful thing you are doing. When my son was younger we would spend many weeks in the hospital. I was thinking how about a love seat instead of chairs? I know when my son was sick he’d be more leaning on me and a small love seat is so cuddly for that.

    Reply

    • YoungHouseLove says

      We would love that! We actually mentioned sofas or settees/loveseats and learned that they can’t do those because the issue is that people spread out and sleep on them (and then there’s not always room for everyone if one person is sleeping on larger furnishings meant for multiple people). It’s so interesting to learn about their needs! There are so many things we’d never think about!

      xo
      s

  32. Rachel says

    What an awesome project to take on. We spent over three months at our local children’s hospital when my daughter was born, and the NICU family room was so depressing that I almost never used it. It definitely makes a difference to the families to have a little brightness and cheer during a very stressful time. I can’t wait to see the results.

    Reply

  33. Christina says

    Is there a way to donate a bit to this project? I’m not local but would be happy to donate a bit of cash for supplies?

    Reply

    • YoungHouseLove says

      That’s so sweet, Christina! When we share the reveal we’ll include a way that you guys can donate if you’d like (so the money goes directly to this department and the initiative!). I think it’s going to be one of those really easy “text this word to this number” things!

      xo
      s

  35. Katy says

    I don’t comment often but I think that this is wonderful!! What an amazing opportunity. One of my professors worked in hospital waiting room design and argues that the layout of the room can help/hinder healing. It’s a really interesting concept that has been supported by study after study. I’m sure that you already have a few things in mind, but I wanted to include a link to a simplified (and easy to read) explanation of some of his research. I thought that it would be right up your alley. Good luck!!!!
    http://www.behavioral.net/article/can-design-promote-healing?page=2

    Reply

  37. Marci says

    What a great project! Maybe you could involve kids and families in creating the garlands and art? I like the idea of children making ornaments to add to the tree. You could pick a certain theme – like handprints – to make reindeer or Santa like this https://www.google.com/search?q=hand+art+projects+christmas&client=firefox-a&hs=M3u&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=M4SPUsDMAoTW2AW1n4HgAg&ved=0CCsQsAQ&biw=1024&bih=505

    Maybe it’s too cheesy, but have a craft station stocked with supplies and a poster “Lend us a hand! Help decorate our tree.”

    Reply

    • YoungHouseLove says

      Love that! We’re hoping to have the kids help us with garlands (for example they could color flat paper ornaments for us and we could string them together to make a garland) or even to have them help us cut out snowflakes! Love the link you shared too! We can’t wait to get them involved so it’s really meaningful for them. They’re going to be the ones who put the LOVE into this space, for sure!

      xo
      s

  39. ashley says

    You two are amazing!! Inspiring in so many ways, not just home decor. Earlier this year my son was diagnosed with leukemia. He spends 28 days in the hospital each time he has a treatment. I will definitely be using some of your ideas to cozy up his room.

    http://primarychildrenshospitalblog.org/2013/10/31/story-lines-porter-the-superhero/

    https://www.giveforward.com/fundraiser/j2y2/porter-wood

    I honestly love you guys!! Your kindness means so much to these families!

    Reply

    • YoungHouseLove says

      Oh Ashley, we’re sending so much love to Porter and your family! What a little cutie! And we love you right back. Seriously, we were so excited to share this project with you guys. Can’t wait to see those little faces when they see the room.

      xo
      s

  40. Lindsey P says

    Not sure if you touched on this, but you may want to check with fire codes about hanging stuff from the ceiling. There are very specific codes about things hanging near sprinkler systems (even paper items like garlands or snowflakes). Have fun!

    Reply

  41. Kourtnie says

    What an amazing gift you are giving to these little ones and their families! You all rock! As a healthcare provider in a hospital, I know how hard the holidays can be for those who are truly sick and can’t be home for the festive season… This is an awesome way to show love to these families in a difficult time and give them a little piece of “home” for the holidays. Thanks for taking on this challenge

    Reply

  43. Liz says

    How fun!! As someone who has worked in many hospitals, let me PLEAD for you not to paint the walks gray! I know you guys love it and it seems to be trendy, but sheesh! Every hospital with 90s decor is smothered in gray and it reads so cold and medical in fluorescent lighting!! Even “warm” grays. Something warm will be much, well, warmer. Please no gray!

    Reply

  47. Ashley @ Happy Penguin Press says

    What a wonderful, heartfelt idea. I recently spent a week sleeping in the family waiting room of an ICU while my father was treated for a stroke, so this hits close to home. I would have loved a less sterile environment to cheer me up. This will bring so much joy to these families!

    Reply

  49. Pat S says

    Good for you guys!! I make a lot of donation quilts, most of which go to Quilts For Kids so I’m quite aware of the ‘no pillows, no toys’ rules. The quilts, which have to stand up to a lot washing, substitute for toys for the children.

    You have quite a challenge, but I am confident that you are more than up to it.

    Reply

  50. Erin J. says

    This project is awesome and you guys are amazing for contributing your talents and time to such a heartwarming cause. Your final product will definitely bring some much needed smiles to families that are working through a trying time. I’m so happy to be addicted to a blog that is run by a kind-hearted and giving family like yourselves! Keep up the stellar work, Petersiks!! :)

    Reply

Stuff We Love

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *