Joyful & Purposeful
Spaces for Kids

Designed with love & Montessori principles

Toronto kids playroom interior designer Sophie Shay posing with balloon letters spelling design studio name Chez Shay

kids’ spaces require more creative thinking than your average space

I’m Sophie Shay. 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 β€œon hold” for another 10 or even 20 years.

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

Not just pretty spaces

  • A magic wand is paired up with a ruler to show space transformation work

    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 will enjoy! It’s kind of my superpower.

  • A heart and two arms wrapped around to signify guidance and warmth

    Guided by Child Development Research

    Montessori places emphasis on the intentionally prepared environment. My spaces follow your child's interests, promote freedom of movement, and encourage independence.

  • A crystal ball signifying seeing into the future and getting things right the first time

    Designed to Grow with Your Child

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

How to Work with Us

  • Forest Hill Toronto kids interior design

    Full Service Design

    Available in Toronto & the GTA

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

  • Rosedale Midtown interior design and custom build playrooms

    Full Service Design + Build

    Available in Toronto & the GTA

    For families dreaming of a one-of-a-kind play structure in a fully custom playroom, we’ll handle everything from concept to construction.

  • "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, Toronto

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  • β€œMy kids could not be more thrilled with their new custom-built playroom that Sophie designed. Not only will it grow with them, but it is fun for all ages. My vision came to life with Sophie’s help and we couldn’t be happier!”

    Julia, Toronto

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  • β€œSophie 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, Texas, USA

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  • β€œSophie took our underused basement and turned it into a beautiful play & sports area for our kids! Sophie has great ideas, is very responsive and any questions were answered with such care and detail. She went above and beyond.”

    Laura, Toronto

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  • "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, Toronto

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Children's reading nook featuring diverse books celebrating Montessori and Diwali and science

Ready to Get Started?