Kristin and Colton Ebersold’s three kids can swing, run and even write on (some) walls in their new Decatur home.
Unexpected kid-friendly features are in various places throughout the house, from a secret room behind a bookcase to the basement playroom with a zip line, swing and other obstacle course elements.
“I just wanted to have a place where my kids could get their wiggles out at home on rainy days or snow days and just have some space to explore,” said Kristin, a pediatric occupational therapist.
As a family of five, the Ebersolds made organization a priority. Built-in bookcases and bench storage contain items such as dress-up clothes, pillows and blankets for movie night, and scrapbooks with mementos and photos for each child. A custom closet keeps shoes, backpacks and seasonal gear in order.
“We love all the built-ins we included in our design and enjoy having a designated space for almost anything,” Kristin said.
Snapshot
Residents: Colton and Kristin Ebersold and their kids, Calla, 9; Avyn, 7, and Laurel, 5
Location: Decatur’s Oakhurst neighborhood
Size: About 4,500 square feet, five bedrooms, plus an office and playroom, five baths
Year built: 2013
Architect: Mike DeCarlo
Builder: Patrick Lockman, Lockman Homebuilding
Architectural style: Craftsman. “I wanted to do something that fit in with the neighborhood. I like having a big front porch. I think it’s inviting for people to hang out,” Kristin said.
Favorite design detail: Architect Mike DeCarlo designed the master bedroom with two entrances/exits. The optional exit is leaving via the closet, which opens into the hallway. The minor floor plan modification has improved their sleep when their schedules are different, Kristin said.
Interior design style: Traditional
Favorite room: The playroom in the basement, which has a zip line and swing. The room is large enough to accommodate the kids, plus playmates, especially on hot, cold or rainy days. “They entertain themselves so well in this space,” Kristin said.
Favorite outdoor feature: The screened porch. “We eat many of our meals here and sometimes enjoy making s’mores in the fireplace during the colder months,” Kristin said.
Resources: Master Stone Crafters; Kitchen Gallery of Stone Mountain; Jenn-Air appliances from Bob Bailey’s Appliance; furniture and accessories from West Elm and Pottery Barn; fixtures from Shades of Light and Troy Lighting. Other pieces were purchased from Craigslist and antique stores.
