Want to design a kid’s room that’s hip and cool? First: don’t say the words “hip” and “cool” to your kids. Ever. 

That’s really the only hard and fast rule! Putting together a comfortable – and comforting – space that is conducive to resting, relaxing, reading, playing, and… well, being a kid… is exciting. Enjoy the possibilities and opportunities – but if you are a bit overwhelmed, we have some tips to get you started. 

5 Tips for Designing a Kids’ Room They’ll Love

When designing a kid’s room, you have to balance their current wants with their future needs. In other words, you want the room to have the ability to grow with them. With that in mind:

1. Keep It Simple

Less is more. With a minimal approach to design, your child has more room to play and relax – and you all have less clutter to clean up. You will also probably have far less “I can’t find my favorite [insert item that your kid cannot possibly live without]” drama.

This room, for example, is organized and simple, yet it still incorporates the child’s at-the-moment passions and provides plenty of room for growth. Decals and signs can be replaced; walls can be repainted. This is a great canvas for a child.

2. Don’t Scrimp on Storage

Nothing says “cool” like storage space! It may not be the feature your kid is clamoring for – but it’s one that they will need throughout their childhood. And while it sounds super parental, an organized, neat space does allow children to play more freely and enjoy themselves more thoroughly.

Planning for storage during the design phase and implementing flexible solutions is key. Ample closet space and built-in shelves are a must for organization. It’s also a good idea to have under-bed storage (either totes or built right into the frame) and moveable chests, dressers, and at least one closing cabinet (if you allow TVs/video games in the bedroom, this is great for hiding controllers, wires, and other accoutrement – and closing the door means “Screen time is done!”).

P.S. Closet organizers are a lifesaver. Options like this model from Wayfair are adjustable, so they can accommodate your child’s growth and provide a place for everything. Now, whether everything will actually stay in its place is iffy – but at least you’ve got a shot!

3. Kneel

Sounds like weird advice, right? But remember kids are a lot shorter than us! Get a feel for their vantage point and get down to their level. If you want them to pick up after themselves, you’ll need low-placed shelves and easily accessible bins. Likewise, if they want to have a tea party with their friends – both human and stuffed – or to draw and paint, they’ll need a table and chairs that are geared towards them. Think pint-sized!

"When designing a kid’s room, you have to balance their current wants with their future needs. In other words, you want the room to have the ability to grow with them."

4. Make It Magical!

Kids are only kids once. Why shouldn’t they have a memorable – and magical – experience? How do you design a room that captures their imagination and sets the scene for creativity and exploration? The options are endless! You can install art tables and easels; you can make a princess-worthy canopy bed; you can create a “secret” hideout or fort that’ll provide hours of fun. Allow your child to have a say in the design; they’ll love the end results even more – and they may be more motivated to keep it clean.

This creative kids’ room features built-in bunk beds and a little fort or loft area. As children grow older, they can turn this into a lounge or study area.

5. Don’t Forget About the Big Kids

Tweens and teens need cool and hip rooms too! Again, though, never say “cool” and “hip” to a teenager. While many treat their bedrooms as an oasis, it’s also good to have a spot where they can hang out with friends and host game nights, movie nights, sleepovers, etc. These can be shared by the whole family, of course, but when you want to have a little peace and quiet (and escape endless video game commentary), you can leave them to it and easily check on them.

When it comes to their rooms, teens and tweens should have a big say in the design. While you may not want anything crazy and permanent, quirky and temporary are completely fine. Choosing elements like color palettes, area rugs, window treatments, bedding, etc., can give them the sense of freedom they want and a sense of ownership over their space.

Focus on the Fun in Designing a Kids’ Room

Tips for designing a kid’s room can go on and on, covering everything from closets and carpets and stuffed animals to sports gear. We’ve selected these five because they will help guide your decisions so you don’t get lost in the minutiae: you need rooms that can adapt as your family changes. G&G works with exceptional designers who understand your needs – and can deliver the results you (and your kid!) want.

While you’re thinking about the future, though, you’re living right now, in the present. Embrace the fun, the possibilities, the opportunities, and the magic. Sure, your kid(s) may outgrow some elements quickly, but with a solid structure in place, their rooms can easily take them from toddler to teen. For help filling in the details, contact G&G Custom Homes.

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