In Real Life with Sarah Kinder

We caught up with the creative family behind @mumandadmag to talk about their move from London to Yorkshire, finding inspiration in everyday family life, and creating a playful home where thoughtful design and childhood imagination can coexist. They also share how Oeuf’s Perch Loft Bed has transformed their children’s shared room into a space for sleeping, playing, and creating little worlds of their own.

Q. Where did the idea for @mumandadmag begin, and what parts of family life are you most drawn to documenting?

A. @mumandadmag felt like a natural progression from my old account, where our individual practices came together and we began collaborating. It was born out of our shared love and appreciation for art, creating a space where we could share our world. I’m mostly drawn to documenting what inspires us in fashion and design, our aesthetic, and the projects we’re working on with brands.

Q. After ten years in London, you and Michael returned to your Yorkshire roots. How has that move changed the rhythm of your family life?

A. I’m from Yorkshire, so the transition from London life wasn’t as drastic for me as it was for Michael, who was born and raised in London. For us, living a slower-paced life and raising the kids in a safer environment has had a positive impact on our mental health. Our quality of life is far better outside of London, although there is a lot we miss about our former life. We’re hoping to visit the city much more when the kids get a bit older!

Q. What does being closer to family and to the countryside add to your children's everyday life?

A. We have all gained so much from life here, especially our kids. We live so close to my parents, whose house has become a second home for them, and we couldn’t do it without their support! It feels as though we’re part of a community here. Strangers say hello when they pass by, which definitely doesn’t happen in London.

Q. You and Michael are both creative by nature. Has a particular moment with your children changed how you see color, form, or an everyday object — individually or in your work together?

A. I believe that, as women, our world changes during pregnancy and we’re reborn through labor. Becoming a mother welcomes not only your baby, but also a new life that you experience with them. Everything is new. As artists, we’re both very inspired by our kids. They create with such freedom and honest expression. It’s beautiful to watch and encourages a more fearless approach to our work.

Q. What does an ordinary day at home with your family actually look like — the version that rarely makes it into photographs?

A. Nothing like my Instagram feed, that’s for sure! Haha. The moments I document on my feed are very real, but they are also just little moments. There’s also a lot of screaming, tantrums, and tears. We’re a family of strong characters, and there’s never a dull moment. It’s definitely chaotic and VERY loud. It’s actually something I want to document and share more on my feed, as I don’t want to portray the “picture-perfect life” that doesn’t exist.

Q. Your home brings together thoughtful design and the beautiful disorder of raising kids. How do you personally reconcile those two instincts?

A. So I’m not very good at compromising when it comes to my style and aesthetic. Compromise and budget are my least favorite words. Haha! I think you can definitely create a space where the two coexist and live in harmony. We select design-focused pieces with playful elements, such as pops of color or softer shapes. Our Sabine Marcelis Donut Pouf, for example, is something the kids love and think is their toy. Heavier or sharper objects, of course, have protective corners in place. We actually have a lot of playtime in our living room. We’ve learned to be less precious about our pieces. Home is a space for all of us to enjoy.

Q. When you began creating your child's room, what kind of space did you want it to become?

A. The kids are currently sharing a bedroom, so it needed to be a neutral space that could bring both of their little worlds to life. I wanted it to be their safe space for play, imagination, and adventure, but also for quiet time. It’s minimal yet fun, and they really love spending time in there!

Q. What led you to Oeuf's Perch Loft Bed, and what made it feel right for your home and your family?

A. The Loft Bed was a no-brainer for us! I fell in love with it as soon as I saw it. I just knew it was the one for our home and family. Since I co-sleep with the kids, we needed something that would create enough space for all of us as they transition to sleeping independently 🤞, while also being a beautiful piece of furniture that complements the rest of our home. It fits perfectly with our aesthetic and our appreciation for quality design.

Q. One of the special things about a loft bed is the world it creates underneath. How does your child use that space — for reading, drawing, hiding, playing or imagining?

A. The space underneath doubles as a sleeping area with a foldout mattress or as a space to relax and play. Ru loves creating a little world for her dolls and playing cook, whereas Zi likes to relax on the sofa bed with his cuddly toys and enjoy a bit of iPad time. I love the versatility of this bed. It works so well for both of them.

Q. How did your child respond to moving into the Perch Loft Bed? Did it bring a new sense of independence or ownership over the room?

A. It was a big day for all of us! My son was finally excited to sleep independently in the top bunk for the first time. They couldn’t have been more excited. It has definitely encouraged more independence, and Zi is very protective of his new space. He doesn’t want anyone messing with it!

Q. What feels most like home to you?

A. Home feels like a giant cuddle with my kids. There’s no place like home!