Hey! I’m Sophie shay
I’m a mom of 2 and the founder of Chez Shay Designs, a Toronto-based interior design studio specializing in kids’ spaces.
After a decade in the corporate world, I’m now 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.
Kids' spaces require more creative thinking than your average space
That's where I come in. From tackling tricky layouts, to doubling storage, to creating beautiful & inspiring spaces that grow with your kids, I help you get it right the first time.
And we have a lot of fun along the way! Just ask my clients — who I’ve worked with on dozens of spaces!
As Seen on
Why Montessori?
I didn’t discover Montessori until my daughter was already a toddler. I studied it, implemented it, and fell in love.
Now I lead workshops in Montessori schools and parent groups across the Greater Toronto Area (I’ve spoken to 250+ parents and counting!) and appear on live television to share what I’ve learned.
Montessori is rooted in
love, respect & curiosity
It values BEAUTY which builds wonder and a love of learning, and it values ORDER which helps our kiddos find their bearings at home, and lays the foundation for trust, autonomy and self-mastery.
When a space is designed with Montessori principles, it brings EASE, JOY & FUN to the whole family!
With Gratitude,
Sophie Shay
If this feels in alignment,
and YOU’RE READY FOR SOME
SPACE TRANSFORMATION MAGIC
MY Montessori design Principles:
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As a kids’ space designer, I can help you look into the crystal ball and know what types of play spaces will get more play, or what types of furniture will grow with your child. I want you to get it right the first time so you can save on pricey trial and error.
To fully make the principle of “Less is More” come to life, I guide families through a decluttering process and create new smart storage solutions so everything has a home and spaces are easy to reset!
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Rooted in Montessori philosophy, a "Yes" space is essentially a safe environment that allows children freedom of movement and exploration. Just imagine how many times we find ourselves saying "No" ("Don't touch!" or "Don't climb!") throughout the day. Now, picture a space designed with the child in mind, where we can replace those frustrating "No's" with a sense of calm, trust, and self-directed play.
That's the power of a "Yes" space.
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When we find ways to fuel our kids’ expressed interests, amazing things happen with their learning and sense of self-mastery.
I take great care to understand your kids’ developmental needs and interests to create custom spaces that fuel their self-directed learning and play.
More creating, less entertaining.
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Young kids are immensely capable and want to be active and contributing participants in our everyday family life.
My spaces are designed to be accessible for the child, which in turn empowers them to take care of themselves, of others, and of their environment.
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If aesthetics were ever a barrier to fully embracing your kids’ favorite colors, interests and individuality, I’m here to tell you, it’s OK. That’s where I come in! With my eye for design, my goal is to create elevated kids’ spaces that your kids will love for years to come AND seamlessly integrate with the rest of your home’s aesthetics.
I promise: It’s going to be good.
