Tips for Creating the Perfect Kids’ Spaces
By Megan Johansson
Too often, when we think about designing our homes, we gloss over kids’ spaces, preferring to spend our time perfecting living rooms, dining rooms, and master suites. Yet, little human beings need good design just as much as adults do (if not more)! From learning to stay organized to providing plenty of space for creativity, a well-designed room can make all the difference between encouraging imagination and stifling it. Follow these tips, and your kid-friendly spaces will soon be a favorite spot in your home.
Organization
Want to instill habits of organization & tidiness? Design your kid’s room in a way that helps them achieve that goal. Have designated spaces for books, toys, and supplies so that they’ll always know where to find them and where to put them away. A clean and tidy space promotes relaxation, too, so your child will be able to take a break from playing and nap in a snap!
Adjustability & Flexibility
Kids’ spaces should have the ability to be used for a variety of activities. From sleeping to studying and playing to crafting, their rooms should be adjustable and flexible so that they’re getting the most out of the space. Some ideas we recommend are incorporating storage under the bed, adding ample desktop space for arts and crafts or studying, and including furniture that can move around as needed.
Timeless Design
It can be tempting to go all-out with a theme in your child’s bedroom, but the trick to keeping kids’ rooms feeling fresh is to show good design that can grow with a child. Rather than having to re-do the entire look every few years, it’s always a good bet to opt for simple style that, with a few slight tweaks, can be personalized as your child reaches his or her older years.
Playfulness
While timeless design is something we love for kids’ rooms, that doesn’t mean it has to be boring. Kids are all about fun and creativity, so why not let their space reflect that same element of whimsy? Try creating a statement with pops of color, add in playful patterns, or top off the design with an oversized item (like a wall mural or big comfy seat).
Keep Things to Scale
More than any other room in the house, kids’ rooms need to be spaces where they feel welcome and comfortable to explore. The key with this is to keep the scale appropriate. Don’t have a bed that they need a step ladder to reach; instead, stick to lower platform beds for easy access and instant comfort. Not only are they safer, but they’re also perfect for sleepovers.
Balance Stimulation & Restfulness
As much as kids would like to play all day and night, they definitely need balance, so their spaces should reflect that. By providing plenty of comfy spots like nooks and reading corners, it allows them to experience both stimulation and restfulness, giving them comfortable spaces to unwind whenever they need it.
Utilize Space Creatively
If you have multiple kids and are short on space, why not opt for bunk beds? As long as you utilize your space creatively, there’s no reason why kids’ rooms can’t still be exciting and fun. Simply look for opportunities to incorporate unexpected storage (under the bed, via wall shelves, etc.), and your small space will feel like the ultimate play zone in no time.
If you’ve been dying to remodel your kids’ rooms for a while now and are tired of endless piles of craft supplies, stuffed animals, and books, then follow these steps and you’re sure to have the space of your dreams. And remember - it’s never too early to promote good design!
