The process of designing kids’ rooms brings a different set of challenges than any other space in the home.

It can be hard to find a balance between playfulness and longevity in the process. When working with our clients to design kid’s spaces, we want to make design choices that reflect their personalities and give them room to grow, whether they are three or thirteen. 

Here are five of our favorite tips for designing kids’ rooms: 

No. 1: Give them room to grow

Unfortunately, we can’t keep our babies little forever, and they have a new favorite color every week. Although we always want to design kids’ rooms that feel playful, the truth is, if you’re always designing for your child’s age, you’ll never stop.  

Investing in essential pieces that are versatile enough to grow up with your little one gives you a base to layer age-appropriate accents so you can avoid needing to re-haul everything at every stage.  

Start with a streamlined dresser, a bed that can transition from one age to the next, versatile nightstands, and even lighting that will evolve with the space over time. 

From our Rye NY Project

Explore our 2022 Kids’ Collection at McGee & Co.

No. 2: Incorporate pattern

Patterns bring so much dimension and energy to a design, and although we incorporate them in every room, kids’ spaces provide the perfect opportunity to go bold.  

Whether you’re going bold with wallpaper or layering in patterned textiles, don’t be afraid to mix and match for a playful look. 

From our Home on The Ranch: The Kids Room

From our AZ Homestead Project

From The McGee Home: Wren’s Room

No. 3: Layer in soft seating  

When designing kids’ rooms, we always try to create more seating with soft rocking or swivel chairs in the corner that can later be used for a reading nook, layered ottomans, or even end-of-bed benches. 

Considering seating pieces that can be used by both you and your kids throughout different stages is a great place to start. Even a more mature chair and ottoman pairing can be styled with pillows and throws for a playful touch! 

Explore our 2022 Kids’ Collection at McGee & Co.

From our Rye NY Project: The Kids’ Spaces

From our Cove Remodel: Kids’ Spaces

No. 4: Add personality with styled mementos 

Although we love using baskets for hiding away toys and books, displaying a few favorites as decor makes for easy access and added personality.  

Hanging a pinboard or memo board is another great way to create a space for things like photos, movie tickets, or other mementos. 

From The Crestview House

From The McGee Home: Wren’s Room

No. 5: Bring in playful artwork  

We love to use artwork to incorporate a child’s personality into their space, so it really reflects them. When choosing artwork, stick with more playful prints to keep their room youthful.  

Animals, florals, and other fun images will make their room feel unique and personal to them. 

Explore our 2022 Kids’ Collection at McGee & Co.