Decorating and Designing for a Kids Room

Published by: Elizabeth Gormley
Published on: 2010-01-10 15:26:13

Decorating a room for a baby or child makes fun meet functionality, but it's important not to get carried away with either one. A key factor is keeping in mind that children grow. Especially if you are planning on raising the little one in the same Connecticut home, there are some design tactics that will help you and your child change seamlessly with the times—while keeping the little one entertained and safe.

Theme rooms are popular, but it's best to keep the faces, logos, and slogans to areas that can be quickly changed. Favorite cartoons, shows, and characters can be quite fickle, so avoid paint-on decals, heavy furniture, wallpaper, and tough-to-change theme decor. Instead, pick bedding, nightlights, lampshades, etc., that can be removed on a dime when your child's next fixation sets in.

When it comes to walls, obviously the tradition is blue for boys and pink for girls, but many have moved on to gender-neutral colors like red, yellow, and green. Water-based paint is easiest to clean. Wallpaper comes in a lot of fun options—but remember to keep it age-appropriate within years of your child's actual age, or you might be re-papering sooner than you would like.

For lighting, consider fun floor lamps with spaceships, dinosaurs, or mod shapes. Lighting can add real drama and style to a play area. For babies and toddlers, keep all light sources out-of-reach and all outlets covered. A lava lamp will be great entertainment for a middle school-age child. For all ages, consider a dimmer switch. This is great when reading to a child at night, or for a child that's uncomfortable with turning the lights all the way off to go to sleep.

Flooring should be slip-proof and non-allergenic. Hardwood floors should be covered with cushy area rugs with insulated padding, or you might want to install wall-to-wall carpet. There are copious styles and types of child-friendly flooring on the market. Safety is what is most important here.

Safe, effective window treatments are imperative, with all cords out-of-reach. You don't want to tuck in your little one, and have the waning sun coming through poorly constructed blinds, or have the rising sun awakening him each morning. Be sure all drapes are the proper height. Consider easy-to-peel stickers for your child to decorate his window.

Shelf displays are a fabulous way to get creative in your child's room. They can be easily altered and the possibilities are endless, from dolls and trophies to hobbies and collections. You might want to frame your child's own artwork. This will give him a sense of comfort and pride in his own room. A globe may entertain a child while educating in the process. Rest assured that as they grow, your children will be vocal and proactive about decorating their rooms. Safety comes first, followed by practicality, and then sheer fun.

Enlist help from a professional interior designer or decorator in Connecticut today by contacting us!

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