How to futureproof a child’s bedroom and create an environment that will grow with them through the years is often pondered by parents navigating the interior design of their home.

Here are our top tips for creating a space that will work from tot through to teenager:

Colour – it’s all about that base

• Both neutral and more vibrant colour palettes can work well – the key is in the detail
• Muted tones on the wall can be complemented nicely by bold furniture and accessories to give a splash of colour, while bright and bold paint can sit wonderfully against more toned-down pieces throughout the room
• Character, pattern, texture and colour – light or bright – can all be introduced with features such as headboards, rugs, blinds, curtains and bedspreads which can all be replaced over time to suit the age of the child 
• When children are sharing a room, it’s important not to limit yourself to one colour palette. Two can work together in perfect harmony and the contrast can often create a real wow factor

Store, store, and store some more 

• Suitable storage is really important in a child’s bedroom as it allows for easy organisation and a more multi-functional space for creative play, work and sleep
• For built-in joinery, it’s a good idea to incorporate adjustable shelves and rails which can grow with your child
• Storage baskets or buckets are another brilliant addition to a child’s bedroom and come in all shapes, sizes and styles. Not only do they encourage a child to tidy up after themselves, they are also easily accessible for them to find toys, games and other items
• A laundry basket is often overlooked when designing a child’s bedroom but is both a practical step as well as a helpful one when it comes to teaching children a sense of independence
• Bookshelves or cases are a must, from infant to teen. Forward-facing shelves are particularly helpful for little ones so they can easily see the selection and pick what they want to read 

A creative zone for young minds

• A dedicated creative or work space can support development throughout childhood and into the teenage years. A low-level table and chair set is great for younger children to stick and colour, and this same space can become home to a desk for school projects as they get older. By opting for freestanding furniture, items can be upgraded over the years
• Whether cork, chalk or upholstered, noticeboards can be a design piece in themselves. In the early years, they might be populated with works of art, certificates, postcards and party invitations, being replaced by photos and homework lists later on 

Light years

• As a child develops, so will their need for certain types of lighting. A night light may act as a comfort for little ones before they progress to a bedside lamp for reading, so making sure there are well-placed wall sockets is key
• Whether from natural or artificial light, good lighting is essential for concentration and focus so making sure that a desk, reading or creative area is well lit is a sensible move  
• Lighting can be playful as well as practical and can be a fun way to add interest to a child’s bedroom. Whimsical nursery wall lights and fun lampshade designs can easily be swapped for string lights or neon LEDs over the years  

Mirror, mirror and the wall

• Not only is a mirror great for creative play and dress up, it also helps a child to develop when they are learning to dress themselves
• Wall art is a good way to transform a child’s bedroom, breathing new life into the space while keeping updates relatively low cost
• Framed illustrations and posters, wall stickers, and neon signs can reflect a child’s favourite pastimes and interests, all of which are easy to change as they get older and their passions evolve 

A cosy and calming space for sleeping

• It is worth investing in a good quality bed and mattress that can grow with a child, and considering what style works best for the area. Bunk beds, beds with a pull-out trundle, storage beds and loft-style beds can be particularly practical for growing families or to maximise space
• Blackout window solutions are a wise move for all ages, particularly for younger children where morning and evening light may creep in around window frames
• Plenty of storage will help make a room clutter free and minimise distractions at bedtime – whatever the age

Further information

Contact Charlotte Hodges-Peck