Doing up kid's rooms? Fantastic. You can let your imagination take over and come up with novel ideas. Before you launch on your project, remember to engage older children in planning and deciding aspects such as colour scheme of walls, furniture etc. You will love the gleam of pride in their eyes when their suggestions get put into action!
Keep in mind the following factors in mind to ensure functionality along with creative pizzazz.
Childproof the room.
Furniture should have rounded curves, and not have any glass involved within its structure. Avoid keeping heavy knick knacks and decorative items. Accidental falls can trip the items on the children and cause further damage.
Open layout.
Align furniture close to the walls so that the center of the room is free and open for children to play around freely.
Use cheerful colours in the room.
Walls can be painted one colour and ceiling quite another. Consult with older kids and go with their favourite colour schemes.
Stick to sturdy fabrics for curtains and upholstery.
Dark colours and prints will help camouflage the inevitable stains that will occur soon enough. Of course, ensure that fabrics are washable and upholstery covers can be removed easily for cleaning.
Accessorize with craft items made by kids
Walls can be decorated with framed art work done by the child. Else, create a mural on the wall with the child's art work. For those inclined towards craft, create a 'craft corner' with display shelves to exhibit the pieces. All of this will add a distinct touch to the room.
Be inventive with furniture.
Steel cupboards can be painted to erase the look of steel; these are then great magnet holders for children and provide a huge canvas for their sticker collections.
Be realistic about small kids jumping on their beds!
It is easier to provide tough beds and mattresses than to keep disciplining them.
Have Adequate storage space
Always plan a little more than what is necessary. Storage requirements grow fast as kids grow and old items are rarely discarded fast enough. Space below wooden cupboards can be transformed into drawers with rollers. They are great for storing scribbling paper, art items, even the roller skates and extra shoes.
Provide good illumination
There should be sufficient lighting in all areas of the room so that children are not restricted to one area for purposes of reading etc.
Keep books accessible
Allow for an open bookshelf in the room. The reading habit is more easily cultivated if books are easily accessible.
Fix a bulletin board
Last but not the least, tack on a bulletin board on the wall. It can be used for photos or to stick important reminder notices for return of library books, school circulars, etc
Enjoy the process of decorating your child's room and let those creative juices flow. Revel in the joy of your children as they enter their newly decorated living quarters!
