Top tips on creating a colorful, creative kids space
With new trends for kids' rooms and play spaces always popping up, we spoke to five fabulous stylists on how they create the perfect creative space for their kiddies.
Creating a fun and functional kids space can be tricky, we get it! But with the right storage (did someone say lockers?) and versatile decor + furniture, you can create a kids space that not only sparks their imagination, but will grow and evolve with them over time.
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Creative kids space featuring Mustard Made The Lowdown in Lilac. Images by @laura_and_issac
Laura | @laura_and_issac
Most important things to consider when designing a kid-friendly space?Storage is key, being able to put away those less aesthetically pleasing toys at the end of the day is important to me in maintaining a beautiful, calming space.
Biggest challenges when creating an interior space?The biggest challenge is deciding on one design or theme as there are so many looks I love. I tend to get around this by buying key furniture pieces and then using a mix-and-match style with both color and pattern within accessories, textiles and wall colors, then mixing things up with new accessories when I fancy a change.
What’s your favorite locker and why?We love our Lilac Lowdown. It's currently used to store Isaac's clothing but I love that in future it would work in any space and has lots of options for storing different things. It would work amazingly as a craft cupboard too filled with organized baskets. We would love to add a tall locker to our collection next!
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Playful space featuring Mustard Made The Twinny + The Shorty in Olive. Images by @home.with.nicci
Nicci | @home.with.nicci
What trend are you currently loving in kids' spaces?I’m loving the trend of mixing old and new, modern and traditional. I have a strong love affair with old buildings and furniture in particular, but I love the clean lines and sleek design of all things modern (like your lockers). It makes for a unique and interesting combo when mixed together.
Must haves in a kid's space?Without a doubt STORAGE! Without storage, we would constantly be drowning in a sea of toys (for me it’s trains and Brio). I love having toys out on display, but it’s important to have some closed-off storage for toy rotation. Children can become overwhelmed when there is too much choice, swapping them out for older or different toys every so often will help promote fresh interest when it is beginning to wane.
What’s your favorite locker and why?My favorite locker has to be The Twinny, I love its compact size compared with other double wardrobes, but don’t be deceived, it has lots of spacious storage! I love the flexibility of its internal configuration, with adjustable shelf heights and the ability to purchase more shelves if required. Please don’t make me pick a favorite color though as I have too many contenders!
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A colourful play room featuring Mustard Made The Lowdown in Berry. Images by @bowinthesky
Dom | @bowinthesky
Most important things to consider when designing a kid-friendly space?Think about how the space works and how they're going to move around the room, perhaps creating different zones. Keep things within reach so they can have the freedom to explore and make sure there is enough space (if you have it) for them to spread out and play. Front-facing bookshelves are always a must for me too.
Biggest challenges when creating an interior space?Trying not to always jump on the latest trend — when you see something all over social media it can be ever so tempting to do it in your home too, but always do it with careful consideration. You want something that's going to last and grow with your family. Kids' rooms are also often smaller spaces so trying to get enough storage can be a challenge (loft beds are a brilliant way around this).
What’s your favorite locker and why?The Lowdown is a winner for me because it just holds so much. It's also a great height to be able to display things on too — I adore the Berry color but I do have a soft spot for Lilac as well.
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A jungle themed kids space featuring Mustard Made The Lowdown in Sage. Images by @henry.andhome
Leia | @henry.andhome
Do your kids have any input in the design of their room?My son was just shy of 2 when we decorated his bedroom and playroom. If I’d gone with his likes at the time (green tractors and certain CBeebies characters) my Instagram account may not be as popular as it is today! However, saying that everything I have chosen in his space is stuff he loves; such as the house mural wallpaper, the jungle-themed playroom and a cosy reading nook. Without a doubt, as Henry grows I’ll modify his spaces where necessary, to make it more in keeping with his specific needs and wants. It’s important for a child to feel comfortable in their surroundings.
Most important things to consider when designing a kid-friendly space?Versatility is an important key factor to consider. Children can get bored easily so having items that can be used and played with in different ways is also a good way of keeping them entertained for that bit longer!
What’s your favorite locker and why?The Lowdown in Sage is fab, as well as being so practical for its purpose. It’s a great size for storing so many things, bulky or small. It’s also low enough to display your favorite toys on top. It’s a great height for Henry too as he’s able to open it up himself and take things out. If you don’t want your little one emptying the contents out every 5 seconds the lock feature comes in very handy too!
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An imaginative space featuring Mustard Made The Twinny in Mustard. Image by @nicolegraystylist
Nicole | @nicolegraystylist
What trend are you currently loving in kids' spaces?I’m seeing a return to hand-painted wall murals in kids' spaces, which I love as they add more of a personal touch in comparison to an accent wall of wallpaper or block-painted wall. Chalkboard surfaces have also made a comeback. I love a chalkboard-painted desk surface or floor as it can easily grow with your child and you don't have to worry about mistakes!
Must-haves in a kids' space?Kids' rooms can get VERY messy, so fun storage solutions are essential. Luckily the days of boring stacked boxes are long gone, and in their place, we have crocodile-shaped wall shelves and pom-pom-adorned baskets to choose from. I like to make them part of the decor by choosing a similar color palette or theme and alternating between open and closed storage options. If kids see their puzzles or books they will be more likely to start playing with them.
What’s your favorite locker and why?I am a big fan of The Twinny in Blush — so much so I actually have it in my daughter’s nursery, as it fits neatly into tight corners and is perfect for storing her clothes and toys. It also helps that the Blush shade goes with everything!
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