When designing for families, children hold a large role in the form and function of the design. This is especially true for the children’s rooms. How should a child’s room be designed to make the most of your investment?

A fun way to incorporate a specific element a child likes is to find a creative way to display it.

No matter the child’s age, we have one goal in mind – to create a space that is reflective of the now but allows for the child to grow within the space. Thoughtful design isn’t only making sure that space planning is right, the furnishings are functional and the tones of the room work together, it is also about creating a space that a child will love from toddler to teen.

A timeless child’s room highlights their favorite animal through art that can easily be changed out as the child grows. Fun poms added to the drapery also add a bit of whimsy.

We start this by working off a neutral foundation, selecting timeless materials and patterns that are not trendy. At first this may seem to “adult” for the child but it’s a vital step in this process.

Next, we space plan a layout that will allow for bed sizes to expand down the road as your child goes from a crib to twin to queen size bed.

Finally, we layer in colors and materials that the child likes now. For babies, this may be your “theme” item. Remember – less is always more.

Tip: find fun ways to incorporate what your child likes now. Do they love small polaroid pictures with their friends? Make a gallery wall on a section of the room with removable tape and find a fun frame to surround it. When your child has moved onto the next trend, the wall will not have any damage.

A boys room is filled with the colors and things he loves. Textures in classic patterns and tonal elements allow for a simple foundation. Layering in surfboards on the wall and photos are easy to change out as the child grows.

While kids change their favorite colors frequently, the bedroom must be able to handle these small changes. I like to layer in area rugs, throw pillows and small accessories for what is suited for the child at this time. These small changes won’t break the bank when they are changed out in a year or two as the child grows.

When the children are in college and come home to visit, their bedroom is still a welcoming space that is reflective of them as an adult, but also brings the comfort of memories.

Project image features: Middle Road | Ludlow
Photography: Freebird