3 (easy) ways to make over a kids’ room

Never before have nurseries, nay children’s retreats, been such a haute topic. Monthly searches for toddler room ideas are on the up, and our Instagram feeds are bursting with pint-size design inspo. 

But how do we deck our LO’s rooms with styles that last? Which furnishings are worth spending our time and money on? And how much control should we relinquish to our little design dictators, sorry, darlings? 

Here’s everything you need to know about decorating a children’s room, now and next…

Gathering ideas for a new decorating scheme is the fun part and children will love having their say, so approach it like a pro and put together a moodboard with colours, swatches and fun features. 

Are you looking to create a sustainable and serene space? How very 2023 of you. Pick a neutral palette, starting with paint colours, adding contrasting colours on skirting, shelves or an upcycled chest of drawers – and investing in curtains, rugs, foot stools and lighting details that’ll see them from toddler-to-teen.

Love the look of (non-binary) tradish wallpaper, but struggling to commit? Try kid-friendly wall stickers instead. Feeling playful? Throw in some kitsch cushions, night lights, toys and canopies – soft furnishings are the best, easiest way to update your home on a budget – and the kids will love picking them too. 

Where possible, go with generic themes and colour schemes that promise more longevity than favourite characters of the moment. If your LO has their heart set on a current hit, then add them in as accessories which can be updated easily.

DO give little room owners some say in their new design, employ your best negotiating skills to keep things on track, and together you’ll create a magical mini haven you can all be proud of. 

Play space, bedroom, classroom, sanctuary – children’s rooms have never had to work so hard, but it doesn’t mean they need to be huge rooms, or that they can’t be fun and inspiring too. 

Consider which zones are needed – and allocate space. Popular options are a cosy corner for reading with a beanbag or a chair; a desk area for schoolwork or arts and crafts; a rug for playing on the floor; a dress-up area for make-believe; and plenty of toy storage. 

Choose open shelving units, tubs and baskets that are easy to access and encourage tidying away at the end of the day. And always consider multi-use furniture, from smart storage solutions to bunk beds (NB back in a big way for 2023). Shop smart now, and you’ll create a clever, stylish space for them to retreat to as they get older.

Layering a few decorative accessories is a clever trick to get them to ‘style’ rather than ‘make’ their beds. All of the Little Home at John Lewis bed linen sets have a range of coordinating accessories, making it easy to complete the look.

Add personal touches, be it cushions, beanbags or a money box. And don’t forget to take photos of the makeover process – you never know, you may have just inspired a future in design a few years down the line.