Tips for Redesigning a Kids’ Room
Redesigning a kids’ room is such a fun and rewarding challenge!
Redesigning a kids’ room is such a fun and rewarding challenge. As an interior designer, I get the privilege of transforming spaces that not only reflect a child’s personality but also grow with them over time. If you're looking to redesign your little one’s room, here are my top tips for creating a space that’s playful, functional, and ready for all the memories ahead.
1. Prioritize Storage (Trust Me, You'll Thank Me Later!) As a mom (and just someone who has spent hours picking up toys and books!), I can tell you storage is key. Kids’ rooms tend to get cluttered quickly, so it’s important to find creative ways to store everything. I love using furniture that serves a dual purpose—think beds with built-in drawers or ottomans that double as storage. That way, you can keep the room looking tidy while giving your child easy access to their favorite things.
2. Opt for Timeless Furniture Kids’ tastes change quickly, but furniture doesn’t need to. I always suggest choosing neutral or classic pieces that can grow with your child. For example, a sturdy wooden bed frame or a simple dresser can last for years and be updated with colorful pillows, fun rugs, and playful art as your child’s interests evolve. It’s a great way to avoid having to overhaul the whole room every couple of years.
3. Think About the Layout The layout of a kids’ room can make a world of difference in how functional it is. I always try to create a layout that allows for both playtime and relaxation. The bed should be in a quiet corner to help foster restful sleep, while there should be plenty of open space for playing and exploring. You’d be amazed at how much the flow of a room can impact the overall feel.
4. Have Fun with Color and Texture Kids’ rooms are the perfect place to go bold with color and texture. I love mixing and matching patterns, especially when it comes to bedding, pillows, and rugs. It’s all about creating a space that feels vibrant and inviting. I also like to incorporate different textures—think soft throws, plush pillows, and textured wall art—to make the room feel cozy and sensory-rich.
5. Design for the Long Haul As a designer, I’m always thinking about how a room will evolve over time. Kids grow so quickly, and their needs change just as fast. When designing a kids’ room, I try to choose elements that can easily be updated as they grow. A cool wall mural or a fun rug can be swapped out for something more mature as your child’s tastes change, but the core elements like furniture can stay the same.
6. Add Personal Touches I believe every room should feel like a reflection of the person who uses it. For a kid’s room, this means incorporating their favorite colors, interests, or personal belongings. It could be a favorite stuffed animal, a piece of artwork they created, or a wall of photos that showcase their milestones. These personal touches make the room feel uniquely theirs and add that extra special vibe.
7. Create a Safe Environment Safety is always my number one priority when designing a kids’ room. I always make sure furniture is anchored to the wall, choose non-toxic paints and materials, and ensure that everything is child-friendly. There’s nothing better than knowing your child can safely enjoy their space without any worries.
8. Build a Cozy Reading Nook As a lover of cozy spaces, I always try to create a little reading nook or quiet corner in kids' rooms. It’s the perfect spot for winding down with a good book or just having some alone time. Add a comfy chair, a small bookshelf, and a soft rug to make it a place your child will love to escape to.
9. Keep It Playful! Kids’ rooms should be all about fun and imagination. Whether it’s a fun theme, interactive decor, or a space where they can host playdates, the room should spark joy and creativity. It’s their space to explore, dream, and play, so make it a place where they can truly be themselves.
10. Be Ready to Adapt One of the best things about designing a kids’ room is that it can evolve with them. A baby nursery will eventually turn into a toddler’s space, then a young child’s room, and eventually a teen’s sanctuary. I try to create rooms that are adaptable, so as your child grows, the space can easily change with their needs.
I hope these tips help you as you redesign your child’s room! It’s all about creating a space that’s not only functional but full of personality and fun. If you ever need help or advice on creating a room your little one will love, I’d love to chat!