Alicia Hassen had a stroke of genius when suggesting a blue living room wall in this 1920s Park Slope condo. Owners Michaela and Aaron wanted a sophisticated do-it-all space that was also family-friendly for their two young sons to enjoy just as much as they did (it doubles as a dining area, lounge, and playroom). 

“They were looking for something energetic but classic that would fit the entire family,” says Hassen, founder of Brooklinteriors. Michaela and Aaron were also ready for some color: pre-makeover, the room was a drab beige that didn’t feel like them at all.

Armed with cans of Snow Day and Good Jeans, Hassen transformed the great room into a modern kid-friendly oasis. “Not only do the boys love it now, but Michaela and Aaron feel great inviting friends over and entertaining,” shares the designer, adding that she’s remained friends with the couple since wrapping the project in 2019. “From the color to the layout, the room really represents all four of them.” Ahead, Hassen breaks down how all the details came together, from the blue accent wall to the thoughtful storage.

Ease Into Large-Scale Color

Surprisingly, the blue living room wall wasn’t planned from the beginning—Hassen nearly completed the project before deciding that it needed something more. “I had plenty of denim-hued accents, but I eventually thought, this room needs more color,” she shares. “The blue accent wall pulled the design together and actually made the more neutral linen sofa, beige dining chairs, and washed oak media cabinet stand out a bit more.”

Design Around Your Must-Haves

Hassen designed the entire living room around two of Michaela’s must-haves: yellow-green throw pillows and the colorful piece of art hanging above the dining table. “Good Jeans ended up being the perfect complement to the citron hue, especially paired with the lighter Snow Day shade on the other three walls,” she shares. The designer carried the denim color throughout the space: on an upholstered accent chair by the TV and a blue window seat cushion. “We incidentally ended up with a fun denim theme, which was a great fit for the boys.”

Balance Color With Natural Materials 

Hassen thoughtfully added warm woods and cognac-hued leather for a touch of natural warmth that would offset the striking blue accent wall. “Dark brown pairs really well with blue,” she notes. “The dining table, credenza, and ottoman-meets-coffee-table add a nice earthy feel, and the soft, rounded footstool design was a great kid-friendly choice for the boys.”

Add Thoughtful, Concealed Storage

Much of the room’s family-friendly feature lies in the storage. “I added plenty of concealed storage for the kids’ toys,” explains Hassen. “They each have their own toy basket, which blend in great with the aesthetic and serve as a quick and easy place to stash clutter before company comes over.” 

Related: These Are Hands-Down the Best Blue Paint Colors For Your Home