Good to Know: Kids Spaces

We’re gearing up to photograph a Virtual Design space we worked on for a special little boy that’s finally wrapping up, so we have kids spaces on the brain. We went bold and playful with the design but crafted the selections in a way that this space will be enjoyed for years to come! I can’t wait to share the final space and how the selections came together! Until the reveal, we turned to our instagram friends and asked them what questions they had when it came to creating the perfect kids space. Here’s a few tips and tricks to help pull everything together into a playful, yet sophisticated design.

Question 01 |

How do I decorate my kids room without being too “matchy” or too over the top with a specific theme?

I think it’s great to have a theme or idea that works as a springboard to get the design going in a certain direction. Maybe your theme isn’t a theme at all, but a wallpaper you love, your child’s favorite color or a meaningful art piece you want to incorporate. Use that idea as inspiration for the other selections without specifically using that item again and again in an effort to establish the theme. You only need to incorporate or hint at your theme/idea once or twice through a piece of art, wallpaper, bedding or toys to get the point across. Balance those decisions with other neutral selections that work with the theme you’re trying to establish but doesn’t give off that same feel everywhere. Here’s an idea of how we were able to incorporate a hot air balloon theme for a nursery without going over the top. We went with a sophisticated landscape watercolor with hot air balloons on the horizon while also incorporating a textured hot air balloon mobile above the crib. We incorporated cloud wallpaper to the nursery walls to add to the airy feel and give a subtle nod to the balloon theme we were going for. Adding in other patterns, textures and colors create that balance between the youthful theme and mature design we were going for.

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Question 02 |

What’s the best way to space plan furniture for your kids bedroom?

Each space is different and comes with its own unique dimensions that will only work a handful of ways. Figure out what furniture pieces will be most functional for your child’s room and go from there. The bed will usually become the focal point and centered if possible. Make sure you’re not trying to cover every wall with a piece of furniture so your room will then feel bigger and less cluttered. Our rule of thumb is 2-3 large pieces of furniture with smaller accents or artwork filling in the available space. Kids spaces tend to be smaller so you’ll want to make sure you leave ample space to walk around beds or dressers.

Question 03 |

How do I mix patterns and colors together so the space still feels cohesive and balanced?

Don’t be afraid of color or mixing patterns together to create a fun and playful spirit! These are kids spaces so it’s the best way to have a little fun and make them as carefree as they are. Keep in mind the scale and color of the patterns you’re trying to mix together so the space feels balanced. It’s great to go big and bold as long as you’re also bringing in neutral colors or soft, yet simple patterns as well.

Question 04 |

How can you design a kids space that will stay timeless as they age?

One of the most frequently asked questions is how can you design a space now that will stand the test of time. Kids are growing fast and with that comes a maturing taste and outgrowing younger favorites. To try and keep up would mean an ever changing space that never feels complete! Here are a few ways you can implement decisions now that will grow up with your child as they get older:

1 ) Color is a great way to make a perfect space fit for a child but try going with a tone that can appeal to younger and older kids. Instead of painting the walls with a baby pink, think about trying out a dusty rose or deeper pink with grey undertones. Paneling or a beautiful wallpaper is also a great way to add that timeless approach to your kids walls that can stand the test of time.

2 ) Select furniture that can work for kids as they get taller and need more specific kinds of space. Opt for a queen bed (if the space allows) that you’ll be able to keep until they’re grown and out of the house or add a desk they can use for crafts now and homework later. Put your budget into those pieces you want to last the longest so they stay durable through the years.

3 ) Avoid incorporating too many cartoons or designs that are specific to a character or children’s artwork. Instead, select patterns or photos that have a youthful feel without being too themed. Abstract graphics, florals, or beautiful patterns can add a hint of fun without going too young.

These spaces are great examples of how a space can feel young but transition into the teenage years when that time comes!