by Tracey Jones & Stacey Kaminski –
Every parent knows that kids’ tastes can change with the wind! Updating a child’s bedroom to reflect their personalities as they grow can be exhausting and expensive; here are some thoughts on how to easily and inexpensively transition a room from infant cute to preteen cool!
Invest in Timeless Furniture
• Full size dressers, side tables and storage units can work in any décor – choose neutral, non-themed and the best quality for your budget.
• Once your little one is ready for a bed, consider a full size piece if space allows. Think sleepovers as they head into school age.
Keep it Neutral
• A good design rule? The greater the expense, the more neutral the piece should be. Classic white or light-toned wood works for all kids.
• Repurpose good quality castoffs with fresh paint! New chalk/cottage paints are easy to use, come in several neutral shades and cover well.
Think Multifunctional
• There are many companies that sell multifunctional kids’ things – research first. Or, parents’ co-op sites sell great, barely-used items.
• Use change table toppers for dressers, armoires and desks – remove as they grow out of diapers and you still have a great piece of furniture.
• Look for convertible options in cribs/toddler beds as well as under-bed storage drawers or trundle beds in big kid pieces. (Yep – sleepovers!)
Paint: Little Cost, Big Impact
• Wall colour is a fun way for your child to really express themselves – it’s a great time to give them choices!
• A colour plan can easily work from toddler on up. If they love a sports team or character, pick a colour from that and use it on the walls! Change up the accessories for fun pops of their interests.
Organize and Accessorize
• Editing what isn’t used often is the key to a calm functioning space.
• Shelves and storage and baskets for all ages are a must … have a place for everything.
• Accessorize simply, but with purpose. Decorate with removable stickers instead of wallpaper they will outgrow. Keep bedding neutral and make it fun with pillows in bright colours and soft fabrics. Older kids love hanging out with their friends – on the floor – provide fun floor pillows and area rugs.
• Frame their art for an ever-changing gallery.
• Cool hooks for bags and clothes create both visual interest and function.
The trend now is really no trend. Keep it simple for your kids, allowing them to express themselves with some choices and creating a space that they are happy and comfortable in.
We love to help with kids space design if you are stuck! Visit remarkableinteriors.ca / interiorstylesbystacey.com for more info.
