When I’m working with my clients, I always include the kids in a discussion about their own rooms. No matter what their age is, they do want a say in what their spaces will look like and how they’ll function for them. I also help guide them to a room that will grow with them, so there won’t be a redo every year or so. It’s so much fun to create these bedrooms and play spaces, so I thought I’d give you my 5 best tips for designing for the younger set.

1. Listen to What They Like

The most important thing I do before starting a kid’s space is to sit down with them and find out what they like. I want to know what colors they’re interested in, what patterns they like, and what activities or hobbies they’re into. All kids, no matter what age, want to feel heard. So I have a good discussion (or two!) with them so they can really tell me what they like and who they are.

2. Separate Work, Play, Sleep

The key to a successful space for children is to be sure they have zones or even separate spaces for work, play, and sleep. If you have a playroom, like the one I designed above, that’s fantastic (especially if you have teenagers). But you can also create zones within their bedroom. It’s easier for them to get better sleep if their toys are put away or if the computer isn’t glowing at them next to the bed. So be sure you give them as much separation as you can.

3. Room to Grow

I like to plan rooms that will grow with the child. So using something like a daybed that can become seating for a teen. Or a cool dresser that will be equally smart in a toddler’s space or for a preteen. Classic and timeless lines help keep furnishings from being too juvenile so they can be used for years. Using quality designs will also ensure that they can take a beating from little ones and still stand up to a teenager’s exacting eye. And don’t forget to plan for a wired future - add plenty of outlets with USB ports throughout the space.

4. Material Girls (and Boys)

The materials - fabrics, rugs, tile, paint - all need to be able to stand up to wear and tear for a kid’s space. In addition to making sure they are stain and scuff resistant, I also like to consider low-VOC paints and other non-toxic materials, as well as anti-microbial surfaces where possible. We want our little ones to grow up happy and healthy!

5. Practice Practical Magic

Every child’s room needs to have form and function. So I have two important rules - provide lots of storage and a little bit of magic. Let’s be honest, the storage is as much for the parents as the kids because it keeps spaces neater. Bookshelves, toy containers, drawers, and under-bed storage are all important. But I also want to have a moment of magic in the room, a bit of whimsy or style that goes to the heart of the person who’ll really be living in that space. So it could be a giant butterfly for a little girl who loves them, like in the room I’m designing above. Or it could be a room wired with fabulous speakers for the music-obsessed tween. Whatever they most dream about, I want to try to deliver a room that captures that.

Use these tips to create fabulous spaces that your kids will love! And if you need help, my team is just a phone call away!

All the best,

Kara