Joyful & Purposeful Spaces for Kids

Designed with love & Montessori principles

As Seen on
  • Dream Basement Kids Montessori Playroom | Sophie Shay | Chez Shay Designs

    Playrooms

  • Chic Fun Cozy Bedrooms for Kids, Boys, Girls and Tweens | Sophie Shay | Chez Shay Designs

    Big Kid Rooms

  • Chic Fun Cozy Bedrooms for Kids, Boys, Girls and Tweens | Sophie Shay | Chez Shay Designs

    Tween Rooms

  • Small Living Room Playrooms | Sophie Shay | Chez Shay Designs

    Active Spaces

  • Arts & Crafts, STEM, STEAM for Kids | Sophie Shay | Chez Shay Designs

    Creative Spaces

  • Children's reading nook with book ledges

    Calming Spaces

  • Family room or living room with comfy couch in playroom

    Indoor Spaces

  • Nature Play Outdoor Kids' Space Design | Sophie Shay | Chez Shay Designs

    Outdoor Spaces

Recent Projects

kids’ spaces require more creative thinking than your average space

I’m Sophie Shay. And I’m on a mission to open our minds to what’s possible with kids’ spaces and elevated home design.

My unique approach blends Montessori principles with a splash of fresh modern aesthetic and real life practicality. These spaces are child-centered and promote independence, movement & wonder.

When you’re in the messy middle of parenthood, thoughtful home design can feel impossible. But life is too precious to live “on hold” for another 10 or even 20 years.

Love the home and the season of life you’re in today!

Not just pretty spaces

  • Turning Tricky Spaces into Loved Spaces

    Need help reimagining your space to its full potential? I love turning tricky spaces into places the whole family can enjoy! It’s kind of my superpower.

  • Guided by Child Development Research

    Montessori places emphasis on the intentionally prepared environment. I believe in creating spaces where little bodies & minds feel seen, heard and free to move and explore.

  • Designed to Grow with Your Child

    Wish you could see into the future and get it done right the first time? Take the guesswork out! I create timeless spaces that grow with your child.

Our Services

E-DESIGN

Available where you are (worldwide)

For families looking to maximize the flow and functionality of their kid’s space but are happy to shop and manage the setup themselves.

FULL SERVICE

Available in the Greater Toronto Area

For families seeking a white glove experience from concepts through to full space transformation. Sit back, relax, and watch the magic unfold!

What clients are saying

  • "Sophie created a room beyond my wildest dreams. My seven year old said that it is the best basement in the entire universe. My husband goes down there every morning now to stretch and ride the bike. We find excuses to be downstairs together as a family. "

    Andrea Mourad, Toronto, Canada

    ★★★★★

  • “Sophie was a dream to work with! She nailed the vision and made all of our needs and ideas come to life so quickly! The kids have immediately taken to the space, and it’s already inviting high quality play, space for homework, social gatherings and just as a family! I cannot recommend Sophie enough!”

    Jenna Wawrzyniec, Texas, USA

    ★★★★★

  • “WE HAD SUCH A GREAT EXPERIENCE WORKING WITH SOPHIE! SHE HAS GREAT IDEAS, AND IS VERY RESPONSIVE AND ANY QUESTIONS WERE ANSWERED WITH SUCH CARE AND DETAIL. SHE WENT ABOVE AND BEYOND.”

    Laura Goldhopf, Toronto, Canada

    ★★★★★

  • "THE KIDS LOVED THE FEELING OF BEING PART OF THE DESIGN. SOPHIE IS AMAZING AT TUNING IN, LISTENING, AND RESPONDING TO WHAT THE KIDS WISHED FOR AND MAKING IT COME TRUE IN THEIR SPACE!! I TRULY APPRECIATE HER ABILITY TO PULL TOGETHER DESIGNS AND CONCEPTS FOR TWO TOTALLY DIFFERENT KIDS. KIDS HAPPY, PARENTS HAPPY - WIN WIN!"

    Nathalie Amlani, Toronto, Canada

    ★★★★★

  • "The new space is far more beautiful than we could've imagined and the kids love how easily they can access their books, supplies, etc. They have been using it every day after school! They love it so much they're even committed to keeping it tidy. Thank you so much!"

    Archana Gelda-Kumar, Toronto, Canada

    ★★★★★

Ready to Get Started?