Hideout Indoor Playground, Thousand Oaks

With the perfect balance of minimal, clean lines and a perky, playful atmosphere, Hideout Indoor Playground doesn't look much like its brethren. Owner Sherry Ehya's background in fine arts and photography surely influences the aesthetic, and her role as mother to three kids means the playground caters to children's imaginations as well as parents' comfort.

In the architect-designed playground, kids climb into a custom-built treehouse to play games or hold board meetings, while playscapes such as a pretend kitchen engage imaginations. The space also fosters quiet time with many books to read and art projects to craft. Meanwhile, parents relax in their own space, which overlooks the play area and features a flat-screen TV, free wifi, and couches to recline on.

Hideout was taken over by a couple in the local community of Oak Park with a deep-rooted attachment to the establishment. Their son started coming to the hideout 4.5 years ago. When it became evident their son was lacking and delayed in a few major development areas they started inviting their therapist to work with their son at the hideout. Fast track to June 2017 when their son was diagnosed with Autism, Hideout was a safe haven for him due to the fact that it was more intimate and less overwhelming for their son. Hideout now is his second home and has helped him overcome many of his social anxiety issues, and help him with his social skills due to the common interactions he has with other children his own age.