In decorating, it’s not easy to make children’s room ‘ just right’
Decorating a bedroom for two is no easy task, especially when we are speaking of two siblings. If there is ample space, it’s easier, but in reduced quarters, it’s tough. Keeping peace and harmony is the goal for our kids and ourselves.
“This one is too hard! … This one is too soft! … This one is just right!!!”
We all remember Goldilocks’ glee when she finds the best bed for her. Determining which bed is best for your room will depend on the size of the bedroom. Some of us grew up sleeping in a twin bed until we were on our own. Others moved on to full- or queen- size beds as our parents redecorated our rooms, often when an older sibling departed to college.
If space is not an issue, you can create a suite- like feel by placing two beds next to each other with a nightstand in between. In rooms where space is tight, consider placing the beds in an “L” arrangement, without headboards and using a table to act as a nightstand in the corner. If your room is yet smaller and does not afford this kind of arrangement, then bunk beds ( one bed above the other) or a trundle bed ( a bed with a sliding bed underneath it) could be your solution.
What about the rest of the furniture? Scale is important. First and foremost, consider this furniture should transition with your children’s rapid growth. No furniture should be too small or too large.
When sharing a bedroom, kids’ furniture should also multi- task so seats and ottomans serve as storage for games, shoes, etc. If it is possible, both children should have their own storage spaces and wardrobes or closet areas. If the storage areas are shared, as well, make sure to create some delineation for each occupant to avoid the blame game as to whose mess it is.
The same goes for the room. Try to create two clearly identifiable zones. You can separate them with color on the walls, a set of drapery panels, a bookcase or a shoji- style screen. This is great for times when each child is doing a different activity or when one wants to read while the other sleeps. If your room is irregular in shape, distribution issues might be better resolved if each child has his or her corner or end of a room.
Harder flooring selections such as tile or wood might be best for children who have allergies. They might be cold to step on in the morning, but they are easier to keep clean and free of allergens such as dust and dirt. Of course, the benefits of carpeting are they are better for acoustics and much softer on the feet than tile, laminate or wood.
When it comes to decoration, every child or occupant of a room wants to have a say in the matter. And yes, their rooms should be representative of who they are. But overall, the sleeping areas should be painted in a color that produces or promotes good sleeping habits. These colors fall in the pastel range for sleeping areas and grays and blues for study areas where concentration is necessary. Leave vibrant and primary colors for play areas.
Finally, the texture or sheen of wall paint should vary according to the age of the occupants of the room. Generally, decorators prefer flat colors, but if you have small children, it is advisable to select a gloss or semi- gloss finish that is easily washable. Follow these simple guidelines to avoid conflicts, freeing your children to concentrate on the fun.
Joseph Pubillones is the owner of Joseph Pubillones Interiors, an award- winning interior design firm based in Palm Beach, Fla.