Bedrooms That Grow With Your Child

Design: Kathleen DiPaolo

Your daughter has declared her bedroom too childish for her.

Your son refuses to go one more night in his "baby yellow" space now that he's 10 years old.

So you're looking to infuse a more grown-up style into these spaces, and what better time than at the start of a new school year? Don't worry, I have some quick fixes to create a space that your growing children will love for many years to come.

Step 1: Colour

As always, I believe there is nothing a new can of paint can't fix. Time to say goodbye to pale pastels or gender-based hues. Growing kids need a room colour with staying power. Think sophisticated greys, taupes, and creams for basic neutrals. Then for accents, have fun with colour and go bold with bright blue, orange, or emerald green. Let them select the colour family and you can help hone in on an exact hue that will last.

Design: D2 Interieurs

Step 2:   Bedding

As you wish your 12-year-old good night, you notice his Buzz Lightyear bedding might need some updating, too. Pack up the character-themed bedding, and put on a brand new comforter or duvet that speaks to both you and your child. Bold stripes, a coordinating solid, or even his favourite team's colours feel more mature.

Update girls' spaces with brighter colour choices and bold patterns. Chevron, border stripe, flowers, or even tie-dyed bedding keeps her space fun yet, still sophisticated.

​There are plenty of fantastic bedding options at reasonable prices. If a full set is out of the question, swapping out the sheets or comforter for a fresh design can make a huge impact.

Design:Clean Design Partners

Step 3: Grown-Up Themes

Some kids will prefer to up the ante in their growing spaces with a theme. Scour online or teen magazines and you can find ideas for a Hollywood look, a surf scene, or even a rocker space.
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These are easily accomplished with a few accessories hung on the wall. Shop your local thrift or resale shops for unique items to add to your child's space to help them create their theme. Wall decals are a great option and can be removed easily when they outgrow it.

Design: Kristy Kay

Step 4: Study Spaces and Furniture

Growing kids need study spots or reading areas that are quiet and conducive to getting work done. This will encourage responsibility and teach them organizational skills.

Create a small reading spot with a comfy chair and side table in an empty corner. If space allows, create a study area with a desk that has storage and plenty of surface space. Skip out on a larger scale, office-sized desk, as those can be cumbersome in a child's room and become a dumping zone for junk. Compact desks with a hutch or drawers will last far beyond the kid years.

Design: Clean Design Partners

Expressing your growing child's personality through their bedroom decor is what it's all about. Allow them to join in the process of creating a colourful and inspiring space they'll be proud to live in!