OUR STORY

Project Playroom was meant to be from the start! Karri and Denise met in 2019 as they joined forces for a playroom design in NYC called the Manhattan House. This inaugural project allowed them recognized three key problems:

1) Excessive screen time interferes with child development
2) Children outgrow most toys and playsets very quickly
3) It can be difficult to find products designed for engaging indoor play

Together they curated, developed and designed playroom products that changes the way kids play. Their ambition and expertise led them to create the first designer playroom store! 

MEET THE FOUNDERS 

KARRI BOWEN - POOLE | CO-FOUNDER

Hi, I’m Project Playroom co-founder Karri Bowen-Poole! I’m a mom of 3 based in New York. As the founder and CEO of Smart Playrooms I’ve spent the past 10 years specializing in educational design. I have a Master’s Degree in Education. My passion has always been to revolutionize the way kids learn through play.

A seedling of an idea came to me one night, and 10 years later my vision has flourished unimaginably. I’ve had the opportunity to design hundreds of residential playrooms for families including Nicky Hilton, Dylan Lauren, and Dan Girardi. I regularly receive inquiries from around the world and my work has been featured in a variety of magazines like House Beautiful, CT&G, and The New York Times.

I take pride in customizing each room I design to fit the needs and interests of the children. Every child has different needs and deserves a space suited to them. My drive comes from knowing that I’m helping kids reach their full potential while also making my family proud. My beautiful partner Denise and I created Project Playroom to give everyone access to the quality sensory and gross motor products I use in my Smart Playroom designs.

Light and Love,
Karri Bowen-Poole

DENISE DAVIES | CO-FOUNDER 

Hi, I’m Project Playroom co-founder Denise Davies! I’m a mom to my handsome son who was diagnosed with autism at age 2. He is now a thriving college student who remains my heart and soul. I started my interior design company D2 Interieurs in 2010. Since then I’ve been on a mission to create bold and inspiring spaces. Throughout my years of experience I’ve seen how innovative and thoughtful design can really transform a home and strengthen relationships. 

I think others might describe my style as fresh, playful, and modern. My inspiration comes from growing up in a vintage art deco home in Miami. My loving mother is an artist who always encouraged me to be creative and independent.

I’m now an award winning interior designer who has graced the covers and pages of HGTV Magazine, NYC&G, House Beautiful, CTC&G, Luxe Interiors + Design, Aspire Home + Design, New England Home and many more. I love all that I’ve accomplished, but I’m happiest knowing I can help children stay happy and healthy through our Project Playroom product line. Please enjoy shopping our store curated and designed by me and my beautiful partner Karri!

XOXO,
Denise Davies