2018 Golden Teddy Awards — Shopping + Services

Winner: IKEA

The circumstances of college life — constant change and tight budgets — apply equally to kids’ rooms. So, it’s no wonder that parents return to their first furniture store when shopping for their kids. IKEA furniture looks good, costs little and lends itself to creative adaptation as kids’ interests and abilities change. Now that delivery starts as low as $29, you don’t even have to drag the littles through the store’s labyrinthine aisles to get the goods anymore. But if you do visit the Renton store, there’s still the prospect of Swedish meatballs and Daim candy bars to keep kids moving forward.

Finalists

In past years, readers praised the good design and high quality of the classic, vaguely nostalgic, yet practical Land of Nod furniture collections. Now Nod has been folded into the Crate&Barrel brand as Crate&kids. Families seem to agree that the company has achieved its goal of combining “Crate&Barrel’s modern, elevated style with the heart, lively spirit and energy kids are made of.” A bonus? The new line seems to hit a somewhat lower price point.

It’s natural for new parents to turn to their favorite grown-up furniture store for their kids’ rooms, especially when the offerings are as charming as those from Pottery Barn Kids. Pottery Barn Kids has the same clean, relaxed style as its grown-up counterpart. Personalization through monogramming and upholstery options are especially appreciated in spaces as intimate as the nursery. Its West Elm collaboration collection is a playful variation on the mid-century modern style.

It may have started out as a waterbed store in 1972, but our savvy readers know that the family-owned Bedrooms & More on 45th St. in Wallingford is the place to go for bedroom furniture today. From organic crib mattresses to solid wood bunk beds, you’ll find what you need for your kid’s room. A small children’s play area with books and toys under the staircase will keep kids occupied while you’re looking.

The Old Cannery Furniture Warehouse in Sumner may be off the beaten path, but it’s worth the drive just for the unique shopping experience, even if you don’t need new furniture. A hobbit-style fudge factory in an ancient tree and suspended G scale trains traveling through the showrooms are sure to please the kids, while parents appreciate interest-free financing, classic styles and down-to-earth prices.