Tips on Creating the Perfect Children’s Bedroom

I can’t wait to start designing the kids’ bedrooms when we move. Once the renovation work is finished, we’ll be moving in and the interior design can begin! I’ve been researching children’s bedroom ideas for my tween and toddler, and teen bedrooms too for my eldest, mostly on Pinterest and of course my older children will provide greater input than the almost two year old but I’m hoping to make all of their rooms, calm spaces which reflect their personality and tastes and encourage them to rest, play, study and of course, sleep well, in.

Through my research and of course experience (as my children have had wonderful bedrooms over the years in our many moves), I’ll explore key principles, design ideas, and practical tips to help you (and remind myself) how to create kids’ bedrooms that are not only functional and safe but where children can thrive and grow.

Safety first

Before diving into design ideas, it’s crucial to remember safety must come first, especually with younger ones who are naturally curious, energetic and more prone to accidents.

Here are some safety considerations:

Furniture placement: ensure that heavy furniture pieces are anchored to the wall to prevent tipping.
Window treatments: use cordless window blinds or install safety devices to prevent accidents.
Electrical outlets: cover outlets and secure cords out of reach.
Furniture design: opt for rounded edges on furniture to minimise the risk of injury.
Toys and small objects: keep small objects and toys with small parts out of reach of younger children to prevent choking hazards.
Bed height: choose a bed with an appropriate height to prevent falls. Browse a range of children’s beds online to help you learn more about what bed would be the best option for your child. There are plenty of options out there, allowing you to tailor a bed to suit your child’s needs. When my boys were younger they had a bunk bed each in their shared bedroom then singles in their own rooms, and now enjoy double beds. They’re so tall, they might require King or Queen size beds when we move and those can often save money in the long-run as children grow so quickly!

 

Choose a theme or style

Once you’ve addressed safety concerns, it’s time to get creative with the design. Start by choosing a theme or style that will set the tone for the room.

Consider your child’s interests, whether it’s a love for animals, sport, space, princesses, or superheroes.

Here are a few popular themes to spark inspiration:

Adventure and exploration: Create a room that inspires curiosity with maps, globes, and adventure- themed decor.
Nature and wildlife: Bring the outdoors in with nature-inspired colours and decor like tree decals, animal wall art, and plant accents (and even real life plants if your child can be trusted with one or two).
Fairytale fantasy: transform the room into a magical kingdom with whimsical bedding, castle-inspired furniture, and fairy lights. I wonder if I can adopt this theme for mine and my husband’s room!
Under the sea: dive into an oceanic wonderland with aquatic colours, underwater-themed wallpaper, and even a fish tank potentially (again if budget and maturity allows).
Sport: Are your children mad about football, basketball, tennis or dance. Think about ways to showcase their interests with framed prints and posters, hat stands and any medals they might win competing in sports, themselves.
Space odyssey: Blast off into space with celestial decorations, glow-in-the-dark stars, and astronaut- themed bedding and artwork.

Alternatively, opt for neutrals or classic designs and colours such as navy painted statement walls and cupboards or almond white walls with wooden furniture. Get your kids involved in interior design by showing them photos and videos on social media, asking their opinion, and why not take them shopping with you for paint, furniture and accessories. By getting them involved (even at a young age) they’ll feel more at home in their room.

 

Colour palette and paint

The choice of colours can significantly impact the mood and ambiance of the room. Bright and vibrant colours can stimulate creativity and energy, while soft, muted tones promote relaxation and tranquility.

Consider the following tips when selecting a colour palette:

Neutral base: Start with a neutral base colour for walls and large furniture items. Decorating with neutral colours provides versatility and can be easily updated as your child’s preferences change.
Accent colours: Add pops of colour through accent walls, bedding, curtains, and decor items. These accents can reflect the chosen theme and inject personality into the room and again are more interchangable than painting the whole bedroom one colour that your child might grow up of quickly.

 

Furniture and layout

The right furniture and layout can maximise both functionality and aesthetics in a children’s bedroom.

Here are some tips to consider:
Storage solutions: invest in ample storage options like closets, shelves, and toy organisers to keep the room organised and clutter-free.

Multifunctional furniture: opt for multifunctional pieces, like a bunk bed with a built-in desk, trundle beds, or convertible cribs and toddler beds that can grow with your child.

Space planning: arrange furniture to create designated areas for sleep, play and study. Ensure that there’s enough floor space for playtime activities.

 

Creative wall decor

Walls offer a canvas for creativity and personalisation in a children’s bedroom.

Here are some creative wall decor ideas:
Wall decals: use removable wall decals to add themed or inspirational quotes to the room’s design.
Gallery wall: create a gallery wall with a mix of framed artwork, family photo and your child’s masterpieces.
Chalkboard or whiteboard wall: turn one wall into a chalkboard or whiteboard for endless artistic expression and learning opportunities.
Growth chart: install a growth chart to track your child’s height over the years, creating a sentimental keepsake.

 

Comfort and cosiness

A comfortable and cosy bedroom supports your child’s wellbeing.

Ensure their room is a haven for restful sleep and relaxation with the following:

Quality Mattress: Invest in a comfortable and supportive mattress that suits your child’s age and size.
Soft bedding: choose soft and breathable bedding materials for a good night’s sleep.
Cosy reading nook: create a cosy reading nook with a comfortable chair, plush cushions and a well-stocked bookshelf.
Layered lighting: incorporate layered lighting with ceiling fixtures, bedside lamps, and nightlights to create different moods and provide comfort during the night.

 

Personal Touches

Lastly, don’t forget to add personal touches that make the room feel uniquely theirs:
Art and crafts corner: dedicate a corner for arts and crafts, complete with supplies and a worktable.
Display their creations: showcase your child’s artwork and creations on a designated display wall or corkboard. You can rotate the artwork or base it on themes such as the seasons so it’s ever-changing.
Personalised decor: incorporate decor items that reflect your child’s hobbies, interests, and achievements.

There’s so much to inspiration out there, I can’t wait to get started!

Let me know what style bedrooms your children have.

 

The photo above was taken at the exquisite Coach House and Stables we stayed at for a press visit.