Kids club founder Maggie Bolger opens up about creativity and comfort
The white façade of this Kensington play club appears pristine, but take one step inside and you’re knee-deep in paintbrushes, cake pans, plush couches, toys, and pirate-themed paraphernalia. Upbeat music is likely to be playing, and you might catch a whiff of freshly baked muffins. The vibe is creative and chaotic, and yet Maggie & Rose still somehow retains sophistication.
With four children of her own, founder and owner Maggie Bolger knows what it takes to satisfy both kids and their mothers—all under one roof. “Quite simply, Maggie & Rose is a funky place for mums and kids to hang out,” says Bolger. “We’re trying to bridge the gap between adult members clubs and the generic play spaces that already existed in London.”
So while mothers chat, sip tea, and relax, the little ones can finger-paint, sing, dress up, dance, or learn about gardening, percussion and cooking. “In one of our classes, a child was presented with a picture of Gordon Ramsay, and she thought it was Winnie the Pooh!” laughs Bolger. “Kids are so funny. We’re always in for a good giggle.”
And while Maggie & Rose may be a home away from home for Bolger and her customers, the devoted mother—whose children range from ages one to twelve—still struggles with balancing family and work. “There are no tricks for it,” she admits. “It’s always hard, but it’s also important not to be too hard on yourself.