Decorating a child’s bedroom can be an exercise in compromise – what they want versus what you think is practical. Below are some of our best tips for creating a child’s room that pleases you both. They get the things they simply must have and you get a room that looks stylish for years.

Define a play area that evolves into a study area. When they’re tiny, set aside a special play corner in their room – perhaps with a kid-sized table and chairs. Later, as they grow up, their corner can morph into a study area with desk, chair and bookcase. It’s a special space away from where they sleep to call their own.

Choose classic, quality lamps and light fixtures. No reason to go cutesy. Invest in lamps – on nightstands and desks – that will integrate into any style and provide years of wear. The same is true for ceiling fixtures. Why not a chandelier or a gorgeous pendant?

Stay away from themes. While the latest cartoon characters may be all your child talks about, refrain from a themed room. It dates so quickly and can add up in cost! If you child pleads, go for a few fun accessories that are easily changed.

Choose rugs over carpeting. Spills happen. Hardwood flooring with scattered rugs makes more sense. Plus, the rugs are movable – great for defining areas and still comfy for floor seating. (And you can choose fun rugs that can be replaced often at an affordable price.)

Select classic furnishings. You’d be surprised at how long classic pieces will last if you choose quality craftsmanship. Oftentimes you can take a child through university on a timeless bedroom ensemble.

Explore colour in unexpected places. Colour is an easy way to inject fun – and it’s easily changed. How about bright blue on the inside of bookcases? What about painting an old accent table in purple? Maybe pink polka dots on the ceiling?

Confine whimsy to accessories. Pillows, stuffed toys, a wall hanging, even a wall of wallpaper – there are affordable ways to let your child express their style. Most important? Provide corkboards, chalk boards and shelving for creativity and displays.

There is no such thing as too much storage space. Ever. Provide multiple places for storage – baskets, drawers or bins. Coordinate them to look pleasing, but go cheap and cheerful. If your child is a little older, consider an ottoman or bench with storage. Or perhaps a bed with built in storage.

Include a grown up chair. For now it’s yours – a wingback chair or even a fabulous chaise to sit on and read stories together. Later it becomes your child’s special seat for reading on their own.

Tags: decor, design tips, Furniture, Kids