Mix fun and functionality to create a kids’ room that won’t be instantly outgrown.
The days are long, but the years are short. So it’s important to design a bedroom that can evolve and support your kids’ budding wants and interests now and in the next five years. Get inspired with these easy and fun ideas to create a kids’ room that grows with your little one. From reading nooks that never go out of style to creative storage solutions, follow these tips to help ignite your child’s sense of play and imagination while saving you time and money in the future.
1. Create a sustainable foundation.
Think through the space and imagine how small changes can create a big impact. MA Allen, a celebrated designer, and tastemaker based in Raleigh, North Carolina, shows how she achieved this in her son’s room. She knew the crib would only be around briefly, so she designed the room to accommodate an upholstered queen bed and anchored the space with a custom Roman shade. The combination of colors and the variety of fabrics created a timeless backdrop. It was easy to make small, less expensive updates as her baby grew and his space went from nursery to big boys’ room.
2. Skip the theme overload.
Going all-in on one theme for your baby’s new nursery is tempting, but designers recommend skipping the urge to go overboard. Everything under the sea or a trendy pop culture theme you love today may feel tired in just a few years. Instead, opt for cohesiveness through a timeless color palette or pick more of an aesthetic theme, like a modern farmhouse, and choose pieces you can use for years or in other spots in your home. If you had your heart set on that jungle-themed nursery, don’t despair; just lean towards thoughtful touches like cute animal artwork or fun bedding that can easily be replaced.
Related: How to Create a Shared Bedroom for Kids No Matter the Space
3. Incorporate creative storage solutions.
Designing an environment that encourages tidying up should be a central consideration. The more you let kids feel like they are controlling their environment, the more independence they can develop. Not to mention, this easier life is for you! Try including floating shelves, customer built-ins, bedroom benches, and under-bed storage whenever possible. And sprinkle in wheeled storage bins to allow kids to roll their favorite things wherever they want.
4. Use temporary wallpaper.
An easy way to incorporate trends your child loves now but may lose interest in down the road is with temporary wallpaper. We adore the options from Happy Wall because they’re easy to install, eco-friendly, and so much fun.
5. Remember, reading nooks never go out of style.
Foster your child’s love of books with a cozy nook devoted to storytime. Your growing little one will always appreciate a dedicated space to escape and get lost in a book, no matter their age.
6. Invest in smart furniture.
Spend more on furniture that lasts. Furniture brands like Casa Kids and Lifetime Kids Rooms offer versatile designs that stand the test of time. Adaptable beds with trundles or credenzas that aren’t kid specific are great investments. Bunk beds, storage beds, and ladder desks that kids can use for the next 10-15 years ensure you won’t have to go back to the decorating drawing board down the road.
7. Swap out accessories.
When it comes to thoughtful kids’ room ideas, avoid buying furniture with an expiration date and swap out accessories like lamps, wallpaper, pillows, and wall art to provide the perfect opportunities to be more daring and playful. Bedsheets are a great way to incorporate those of-the-moment favorites like mermaids and bulldozers. These designs bring instant joy to your little one and are easy to change down the road when tastes inevitably evolve.
Related: How to Clear the Clutter from Your Kids’ Rooms for Good
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