A Modern Canopy Bed and Cozy Reading Nook Make These Sibling Spaces Extra-Special

Maria Dueñas Jacobs, former accessories director at Elle magazine and founder of the children's jewelry line Super Smalls, has designed her New York West Village apartment to be both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional for her family, which includes her husband, Jordan, and their three daughters, Luna, Isa, and Silvi. Recognizing the challenges of maintaining a pristine home with young children, Jacobs adopted a philosophy of "strategic mess," focusing on durability and flexibility in her design choices. The apartment's layout, conceived with architects Marc Turkel of Leroy Street Studio and designer Jerry Cappiello, features a versatile four-bedroom plan that can adapt as her children grow from toddlers to teenagers. The home maintains a streamlined and intentional aesthetic, characterized by a neutral color palette accented with lavender and dusty blush tones. Key pieces of furniture, such as an ash- and burl-wood credenza, a navy leather-front bureau, and a Theo Ruth shearling club chair, provide grounding elements. Despite its sophisticated appearance, the apartment integrates numerous child-friendly features. The open-plan living, kitchen, and dining areas facilitate easy supervision, while an expandable dining table is paired with a built-in banquette upholstered in stain-resistant outdoor fabric. A custom ottoman with curved edges and scratch-resistant mohair caters to both children and their pet cat, Frankie, ensuring the space is suitable for entertaining, daily life, and family activities. Jacobs's approach extends to whimsical and practical decor. She incorporated spill-hiding, colorful patterned rugs and a custom daybed with built-in storage. The girls' bedroom is designed as a perpetual slumber party, featuring a teepee, cloud-painted walls, and a unique Murano glass light fixture. The adjacent playroom emphasizes freedom and joy, with movable furniture like bookshelves, beanbag chairs, and an arts-and-crafts table to accommodate dance parties and scooter rides. Practical elements are subtly woven into these playful spaces; for instance, the bunk bed includes stairs with hidden storage drawers, and the loft area can be converted into a desk or game spot in the future. Adult spaces also reflect a balance of practicality and creativity. The guest room includes a custom pull-out trundle for visitors, while the living room showcases a custom Moroccan rug mashup of two different patterns that Jacobs combined. Her bedside tables are topped with rose quartz, chosen for both its durability and its perceived magical and healing properties. The living room bookshelf serves as a display for personal and collected items, such as a Buddha statue, family photos, and ceramic vessels. Art plays a significant role, with pieces ranging from a Warhol print and a Robert Motherwell print to abstract paintings by Jacobs’s artist mother, Rosaria Pugliese, and even her children’s drawings, all coexisting harmoniously. Investment pieces are strategically placed out of children's reach, such as a Kalmar chandelier and disc lights by Apparatus Studio, which Jacobs considers akin to art or jewelry that completes an outfit. This thoughtful integration of high-end design with kid-proof functionality creates a home that is both beautiful and resilient, allowing for both sophisticated adult living and energetic child's play. The overall design prioritizes a lived-in, adaptable style that accommodates the evolving needs of a growing family, embracing the joyful chaos that comes with children while maintaining an elegant aesthetic. #FamilyHomeDesign #KidFriendlyDecor #InteriorDesign #WestVillageApartment #FlexibleLiving #NeutralColorPalette #CustomFurniture #HomeTour

Built-in bunk rooms offer an effective solution for accommodating more guests, making them ideal for multi-generational families, friends, and holiday gatherings. Sarah Broughton, an architect at Rowland & Broughton, emphasizes the increasing popularity of bunk rooms in "legacy houses" designed for various age groups. These rooms maximize floor space and ceiling height, allowing a standard three-bedroom house to sleep multiple families. Creative utilization of existing spaces, such as converting a playroom or an attic, can transform underutilized areas into comfortable sleeping quarters for numerous people. For instance, a lake house playroom can be adapted by installing stacked bunk beds, or an unused attic can become a cozy retreat with beds nestled under the eaves, potentially providing sleeping arrangements for ten or more individuals. Designing a functional bunk room requires attention to detail. Each bunk should include essential amenities such as an electrical outlet for charging devices, a shelf for personal items like a glass of water, and individual lighting. Broughton also suggests integrating storage solutions, such as drawers beneath the bottom bunks, and upholstering headboards for added comfort. By building everything in, similar to a ship's design, every square inch of space is utilized efficiently, making the room feel spacious even with lower ceilings. The design extends to adjacent bathrooms, which should be planned to accommodate multiple users simultaneously, featuring separate water closets, shower chambers, and multiple sinks. Practical considerations also include constructing sturdy ladders with comfortable rungs for bare feet and ensuring sufficient space around mattresses for easy bed-making. Bunk room designs are not limited to children; they can be adapted for adults with sophisticated styles. Examples include rooms with charcoal gray and brown palettes, privacy curtains, and stylish built-in storage, as showcased by Amber Interiors. Mindy Gayer Design employs pale neutral color schemes and clean lines for a minimalist aesthetic, while Liza Reyes incorporates plush wall-to-wall carpeting and bolster pillows for added comfort in Tahoe guest rooms. Any room can be transformed into a sleeping area by adding multiple twin mattresses, as demonstrated by a grain silo-inspired outbuilding designed by Julie Hawkins. Legaspi Courts Design illustrates how playrooms can serve dual purposes as sleepover spots without compromising space for activities. Other creative ideas include using mixed prints and vintage lighting to create cozy attic havens, or carving out spacious sleeping dens in rustic cabins with attached washrooms. Lindsay Hill Interiors transformed an unused garage space into a six-bunk crash pad, and custom plywood beds enhance shared sleeping arrangements for siblings. #BunkRoomDesign #SpaceSavingSolutions #HomeDesignIdeas #InteriorDecorating #FamilyTravel #GuestAccommodation #BuiltInFurniture #CleverStorage #HomeRenovation

This article provides 21 clever shared bedroom ideas aimed at creating a harmonious and functional living space for children. It emphasizes that while sharing a room is common for siblings, thoughtful design, decor, and layout can significantly enhance the experience, promoting individual privacy and shared togetherness. The core objective is to strike a balance where each child feels a sense of ownership over their personal space, which is equally sized and allows for both individual activities and shared moments. The article highlights that a poorly designed shared room can lead to impractical layouts, clutter, and sibling arguments due to uneven space distribution. Conversely, a well-planned room offers privacy, a designated personal area, and opportunities for shared activities. Key recommendations from interior experts emphasize the importance of layout, starting with zoning areas for sleeping, playing, and studying. Choosing appropriate children's bedroom furniture is also crucial, as it can either enhance or detract from the room's functionality and aesthetic. Several practical ideas are presented, starting with the suggestion of adding a shared reading nook. This space, created with cushions and a canopy, encourages siblings to spend time together. For physical separation, using a half-height bookshelf or a curtain hung on a tension rod is advised to allow light and airflow, unlike solid partitions. Maximizing space is a recurring theme, with advice to utilize vertical space through tall bookcases, under-bed storage drawers, and wall-mounted desks. Over-door organizers are also mentioned as effective solutions for decluttering. High sleepers are suggested as an alternative to bunk beds if space permits, providing individual play or study areas beneath each bed, thereby creating a sense of privacy within mini-zones. Equal division of space is stressed to prevent resentment, ensuring each child has similar personal space and storage. Built-in storage solutions are recommended for managing the accumulation of children's belongings, with clear divisions for each child's items. Calming color schemes are preferred over garish primary colors to promote a serene environment, with personality added through photographs and wall decor. The article also touches on inventive bunk bed layouts, such as L-shaped designs, to accommodate different age groups and needs. Creating a fun and stimulating double desk area is advised for homework, especially for teenagers. The importance of choosing themes that both children love, set against a neutral background, is highlighted to avoid a cluttered look. Modern bunk bed designs that offer a cocooning, den-like feel can make bedtime more appealing. Investing in durable, vintage-style furniture is suggested for longevity, with advice on using discount codes to manage costs. Incorporating soft play areas on the floor, using multiple colors for walls (e.g., geometric designs), and breaking conventional layouts for better space utilization are also covered. Personalizing items with names or unique decor is recommended to reinforce individual identity within the shared space. Finally, adding a tent provides a private retreat, and ensuring storage solutions are accessible for both bunk bed levels helps maintain order.

Designer Anita Yokota shares insights into creating a functional and harmonious shared bedroom for her two daughters, Natalie (12) and Emily (7), who share a bunk bed. Having grown up sharing a room herself, Yokota understands the dynamics of siblings cohabiting a space, acknowledging both the squabbles and the cherished memories formed. Her immediate goal is to enhance their living area, particularly focusing on organization, as a tiny, old closet with problematic sliding doors has been a persistent challenge for the girls. Yokota, also a trained marriage and family therapist, emphasizes that constant struggles over space can negatively impact sibling relationships. To address the closet issue, Yokota devised a clever DIY solution. She removed the original, nearly 30-year-old mirror sliding doors, which offered limited access, and replaced them with extra-tall curtain panels made from durable Sunbrella Fusion fabric. These panels were mounted on a ceiling track, allowing both girls simultaneous access to their belongings and significantly reducing conflict over space. She highlights that this simple yet effective modification has eased the stress of sharing. Beyond the curtain solution, Yokota advocates for investing in personalized, structural storage systems within the closet. She specifically praises the Container Store's Elfa products, which she customized to include a mix of open shelves, hanging rods at varying heights for different types of clothing, and drawers. While acknowledging the initial higher cost, she argues that such systems save money in the long run by eliminating the need for numerous basic bins and baskets. She stresses the importance of customizing storage to fit odd spaces, advising against a one-size-fits-all approach. Furthermore, Yokota offers practical advice for other aspects of a tween bedroom. For flooring, she recommends luxury vinyl tiles that mimic hardwood or, as a more budget-friendly option, washable rugs over existing carpet, recognizing that shared bedrooms often become snacking zones. To promote better sleep, she replaced old shutters with light-blocking roller shades and airy drapery, and swapped a non-bunk-bed-friendly ceiling fan for a woven pendant light, creating a more cocoon-like environment. A kid-sized mid-century inspired vanity by the window adds a functional and stylish touch. Finally, Yokota discusses the strategic placement of a rattan swing, which, after being monopolized by the girls in the living room, found a new home in their bedroom. This whimsical, space-friendly piece, safely secured in a ceiling stud, not only adds a playful element but also provides a soothing activity beneficial for child development. The swing also implicitly encourages the girls to practice sharing and taking turns, reinforcing the positive aspects of their shared space. #SharedBedroom #TweenRoom #ClosetOrganization #DIYStorage #HomeDesign #KidsBedroom #InteriorDesign #SpaceSaving #ParentingTips

This article explores the process of redecorating a 4-year-old's bedroom, focusing on how to involve the child in the design decisions while ensuring a result that satisfies both parents and child. The case study involves Quinn Berry, daughter of Domino style director Kate Berry and illustrator Ian Berry, who has a strong aesthetic vision for her room. Quinn's primary request was a bunk bed with a rainbow ladder and "hot pink walls with pretend flowers." Her parents, leveraging their design expertise and the assistance of Domino style editor Elaina Sullivan, navigated these requests to create a vibrant and functional space. The renovation began by removing outdated baby room elements, such as a crib and neutral textiles, and retaining more eclectic pieces like fringed pendant lamps and a graphic Moroccan rug. Quinn's initial vision for hot pink walls was adapted; the walls were painted a pale rose and accented with color-blocked sections in brighter pink and orange. The "pretend flowers" materialized through a hyper-stylized Josef Frank fabric, which was used to transform the bottom bunk into a creative hideaway. This collaborative approach allowed Quinn's ideas to be incorporated while being refined into a more sophisticated design. The room was also designed to serve as a "working laboratory" for Quinn's creative development, featuring a standing easel, a wall-mounted crafts area, and a dress-up station. This emphasis on functionality supports her current interests, which include a fascination with Yayoi Kusama. The article highlights that encouraging creativity does not mean completely ceding control to the child but rather finding a balance. It provides practical advice on achieving this balance through three key strategies. First, parents should identify the child's top two or three non-negotiable design elements and build around those. For Quinn, the bunk bed was paramount, leading to a compromise on a white model that could be customized with desired details like the botanical fabric. Second, the article suggests adapting the child's vision rather than outright rejecting "questionable ideas." This involves toning down, recasting, or adjusting the scale of their concepts to align with adult preferences. For instance, instead of an entire hot pink room, the color was integrated through color-blocked panels and accent pillows. Third, the design should reflect the child's passions and habits. By observing how the child uses their space, parents can incorporate elements that nurture their evolving interests, such as a dedicated spot for a favorite wig, accessible musical instruments, or a drawing table. These strategies aim to create a space that is both personally engaging for the child and aesthetically pleasing for the adults, fostering a sense of ownership and creativity in the child. #KidsRooms #BedroomDesign #InteriorDesign #ParentingTips #CreativeSpaces #HomeDecor #ChildhoodDevelopment

This article showcases five distinct children's bedroom designs, each tailored to the unique personalities and preferences of its young occupant(s). The first section, "Sophie & Mimi: Double the Fun," details a shared bedroom for two sisters, Sophie (6) and Mimi (4). Designed by builder Jason Drake and designer Edwina Vidosh, the room features two separate sleeping areas connected by a common bathroom and a custom-built loft playroom. The innovative design includes built-in desks, bookshelves, and cubbies hidden within the stairs leading to the loft. The rooms are visually linked by coordinating pink, blue, and white colors in bedding and window treatments, with playful rustic hutches and custom closets replacing traditional dressers. Vidosh utilized complementary-colored wallpaper on a single wall behind each bed to add visual interest without being over-stimulating. The loft space is equipped with a toddler daybed and a child-size sofa, along with a vibrant area rug. Key elements include whitewashed wood bark beds from La Lune Collection. The second section, "Taylor: Welcome to the Jungle," presents an 11-year-old girl's jungle-themed bedroom in Armonk, inspired by her love for animals. Architect and interior designer Beata Buhl-Tatka incorporated green and earth tones, along with natural, sustainable materials like bamboo, jute rope, mosquito netting, and all-wool carpeting. The goal was to create a jungle mood that was not overly dark or conflicting with the home's elegant aesthetic. The room includes an oversized armchair sleeper for guests, a custom-designed built-in bookcase for her extensive book collection, and draperies featuring a Brunschwig & Fils monkey-and-palm tree print. Dark bamboo nightstands and a leather trunk end table complete the theme, which is further enhanced by numerous stuffed animals. Next, "Noah C.: Out of this World" features an 11-year-old boy's Mars-themed room in Mount Kisco. Architect James T. Best designed the room with an outer-space view of Earth, building a spaceship-style bed with bookshelves integrated into its legs. Plywood was used to create the rough texture of the planet's terrain and for the intricate command center inside the rocket's nose cone. Artist Kendall Klingbeil painted the room with detailed red, orange, and gray scenery, including a spacecraft, planets, and glow-in-the-dark stars, and depicted the historical moment of the U.S. flag on the moon. The room also includes a loft-like landing platform for studying, with each step concealing a storage drawer. The signature of astronaut Sally Ride adds an authentic touch. The fourth design, "Tori: Pink Paradise," describes a 6-year-old girl's princess-themed bedroom in Rye Brook. Designer Jeanette Hubley-Lasher aimed to create a balanced space using pink and white shades. The room features Pierre Deux pink-and-white classic toile wallpaper, a whitewashed four-poster bed from Country Willow Kids with crystal knobs and an elaborate Princess canopy, and a fringe-trimmed balloon valance. Hubley-Lasher used pastels to ensure the room's longevity and prevent the child from quickly tiring of the distinctive pattern. The en suite bathroom continues the theme with a dainty vanity and a miniature rose chandelier. Furniture includes a white lacquered dresser, wood bench, desk, and end table. Finally, "Noah M.: Timelessly Tailored" showcases a bedroom transformed for a 12-year-old boy in anticipation of his bar mitzvah. Interior designer Elaine Mager created a masculine yet warm space designed to grow with him. The room's color scheme transitioned from hunter green and tan to sophisticated shades of chocolate brown, taupe, and gold. It features a leather double bed from Crate & Barrel and Rosecore wall-to-wall carpeting with an understated plaid pattern. Patton Wallcoverings' natural grasscloth wallpaper adds texture, and a glazing technique gave the ceiling a suede-like appearance. Custom built-ins, designed with Alba Carrasco and Fernando Martinez of Go To Your Room, include a dark pine dresser, a floor-to-ceiling desk with shelves for trophies, and a natural pine under-window storage bench for games, helping to keep clutter at bay. The overall approach for all rooms emphasizes personalized, functional, and aesthetically pleasing environments for children. #KidsRoomDesign #ChildrensBedrooms #InteriorDesign #CustomFurniture #HomeDecor #ThemedRooms #SiblingSharedRoom #SustainableMaterials #SpaceSavingSolutions

This article explores six brilliant feng shui tips for kids' rooms, aiming to create a harmonious and supportive environment that promotes sleep, happiness, and well-being. Feng shui, an ancient Chinese practice, focuses on arranging surroundings to optimize the flow of 'qi' or energy. The first crucial aspect is bed placement. According to feng shui expert Anjie Cho, the 'commanding position' for a child's bed is essential for restful sleep. This involves placing the bed so that the child can see the door from the headboard, which should be against the farthest wall from the door. The bed should not be directly in front of the door but rather diagonal to it. This positioning empowers the child by allowing them to perceive who is entering, thus preventing them from being startled and contributing to a sense of security and command over their space. It is also advised that the bed should not be positioned directly under a window. The article then addresses the topic of bunk beds. While not ideal in traditional feng shui due to the compressed energy for the child sleeping on the lower bunk, expert Francoise Courty-Dan suggests that if bunk beds are necessary or desired, certain considerations can mitigate negative effects. These include ensuring the children are comfortable and sleep well in them. Opting for wood over metal frames and verifying the stability and sturdiness of the beds are important. To counteract the feeling of being enclosed, painting the underside of the upper bunk in a pleasant color and hanging mobiles can help with qi circulation and create an impression of a larger space. Color choices for kids' rooms are also discussed. Courty-Dan emphasizes the importance of a balanced yin and yang energy, meaning the room should be neither too dark nor too bright, and align with the child's personality. Bright, neon colors or busy wallpapers should be avoided for walls as they can overstimulate a child, potentially affecting their nervous system and disrupting sleep. Instead, Anjie Cho recommends pastel shades like blues, greens, or pinks, as these colors are considered healing and soothing in feng shui practices. For boosting a child's self-confidence, feng shui expert Laura Benko suggests incorporating a full-length mirror positioned at the child's eye level. This ensures the child feels adequately represented and 'measures up.' Additionally, the room should be adorned with uplifting and supportive images. Rather than superficial or overly commercial imagery, displaying the child's own artwork or photographs of special moments with loved ones is encouraged, as these provide genuine comfort and support. The article also highlights the negative impact of clutter on a child's environment. Benko explains that a messy room, symbolic of chaotic activity, is not conducive to peaceful sleep or effective homework. A simple solution involves ensuring every item has a designated place, utilizing covered boxes and baskets for quick and easy tidying at the end of the day. Finally, the role of artwork in a child's room is explored. Involving the child in selecting art that reflects their interests, such as sports or hobbies, as well as displaying their own creations, is beneficial. However, for children who struggle with sleep, Benko advises against artwork depicting fast-moving imagery, such as crashing waves or transportation motifs, as these can be overstimulating. #FengShui #KidsRooms #HomeDecor #BedroomDesign #ChildDevelopment #InteriorDesign #Wellbeing #BedPlacement

Angela and Eric Aguirre, first-time homeowners in Studio City, California, discovered that a corner window in their newly constructed house became an immediate favorite spot for their 4-year-old daughter, Anahì, for playtime with her dolls. Recognizing this natural inclination, the parents aimed to create a cozy and stimulating space for her. Initially, they attempted a makeshift reading nook by piling pillows in the corner, hoping to foster a love for reading and engage Anahì's senses. However, this temporary solution proved inadequate, especially with the morning sun waking their daughter too early. As Anahì approached the transition to a toddler bed, the parents enlisted the expertise of interior designer Irene Lovett of Designstiles to address both the functionality and aesthetic of the room. Lovett observed the room's inherent charm, primarily due to the abundant natural light and the view of mature magnolia trees from the windows. This natural beauty became a central element in her design approach. To capitalize on the windowed niche, Lovett designed a custom floor cushion and hung curtains that followed the curve of the upholstery, effectively creating a dedicated and inviting reading nook. While these custom elements represented a significant portion of the budget, Lovett strategically incorporated more affordable accessories from retailers like Target, Anthropologie, HomeGoods, and IKEA for pillows and other decor. This decision ensured that the space, which Anahì and her friends would frequently use for play, remained practical and durable without excessive investment in designer items. The color scheme was carefully chosen to support a serene and adaptable environment. Instead of a strong, overwhelming hue, Lovett opted to paint only the lower half of the walls in Dunn Edwards Shark, a soft turquoise-mint shade. This choice aimed for a color that was youthful but not childish, allowing the room to evolve with Anahì as she grew. The room's remaining decor drew inspiration from a purple flat-weave rug the couple had acquired during a trip to Morocco. Reflecting their extensive travels and their desire to instill a love for global exploration in their daughter, they adorned the space with a commissioned piece by artist Jessica Ando depicting Mt. Kilimanjaro above Anahì’s bed. Books and playthings from various international destinations were also thoughtfully placed on shelves, reinforcing the theme of adventure and worldly curiosity. The redesigned reading nook, with its breezy and child-friendly design, serves as a prime example of how thoughtful design can transform a simple corner into a cherished hideaway that encourages imagination and learning. #KidsBedroom #ReadingNook #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ChildFriendlyDesign #Designstiles #CustomDesign #BedroomInspiration #SmallSpaces

Decorating a little girl's bedroom presents a unique challenge: creating a space that she will love immediately and continue to appreciate as she grows. The key is to blend her interests with timeless design principles, moving away from overly juvenile or trend-driven decor that quickly becomes outdated. Instead of specific character themes, focus on playful yet enduring elements. One fundamental principle is to choose elements that can grow with the child. This means avoiding overtly childish murals or cartoon themes that a child might outgrow quickly. Designers recommend incorporating furniture, accessories, and design motifs that are imaginative but also versatile for long-term use. For instance, instead of a princess mural, consider abstract block patterns, interesting shapes, or custom woodwork that offers visual stimulation without aging out. Creating a dedicated reading nook with comfortable seating, such as a corner tent or beanbag, fosters a love for reading and provides a cozy space for solo activities or shared moments with family and friends. Accent walls with wallpaper are a simple yet effective way to introduce visual interest that can age gracefully. Floral patterns from designers like Ashley Woodson Bailey, Lindsay Cowles, and Louee Vega are suggested for their timeless appeal. Another practical and creative addition is a bulletin board or chalk wall, allowing children to personalize their space with their artwork, photos, or cherished items. This empowers them to express their evolving thoughts and interests. To create a dreamy atmosphere, incorporate twinkly fairy-style lights around the bed, in a canopy, or along the walls. These lights are easy to install, loved by children, and can serve as a calming element for bedtime. Encouraging personalization through creative wall art is also crucial. Hanging a magnet board or word art board at a child's height enables them to display their creations or photos of loved ones, giving them a sense of autonomy. The color palette plays a significant role in creating a soothing environment. Soft, muted tones are preferred over overly bright or stimulating colors. A pale green, for example, can set a nature-inspired scene, especially when paired with animal-themed decor. Alternatively, pale blue walls can offer a unique and calming alternative to traditional pinks and purples often associated with girls' rooms, providing a backdrop for celestial themes like constellation art or moon-shaped nightlights. Considering the functionality of the space is essential for fostering a sense of responsibility. Ensure storage solutions are easily accessible for toys, and shelves for books are at a height where children can reach them independently. For larger decor pieces, light, bright, and neutral tones are timeless, allowing children to inject color through toys, pillows, and blankets. White walls and linens also offer a versatile canvas for customization. Most importantly, involving the child in the decorating process by asking for their input on colors and themes ensures the room truly reflects their personality and preferences. Further decorating ideas include creating a gallery wall with carefully curated art pieces, which can be a fun way to introduce children to art and help them build their own collection. Opting for light and airy window treatments, such as linen or soft cotton curtains in natural shades, allows for ample natural light while maintaining privacy. Storage solutions can be both practical and aesthetically pleasing when chosen thoughtfully and decorated with the child's input. Adding whimsical elements like floral or beaded light fixtures, a small table and chairs, or a cozy lounge chair enhances the playful nature of the room. Incorporating easy-to-maintain plants not only adds texture and color but also purifies the air and can instill a sense of responsibility. Finally, showcasing the child's own artwork in simple frames adds a personal and chic touch, giving them pride in their creations. #GirlsBedroom #KidsRoomDesign #ChildrensDecor #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #TimelessDesign #ReadingNook #PersonalizedSpace #WhimsicalDecor

Jane Keltner de Valle, cofounder and CEO of Paloroma, and her husband, architect Giancarlo Valle, sought the advice of feng shui master Yung Siu after renovating their loft in Brooklyn’s Dumbo neighborhood. Initially expecting minor suggestions, they received more profound insights, particularly concerning the exposed columns and beams in their 1914 factory building loft. Siu indicated these structural elements could negatively impact well-being, prompting the couple to address their then 3-year-old son Roman’s bedroom. Rather than undertaking another major construction project, they devised a creative solution by installing a flowing canopy over Roman’s daybed. This canopy served to mitigate the perceived negative energy from the overhead beams, creating a cozy and private "camping out" atmosphere for their son. Five years later, this feng shui-approved design remains. Roman, now 8, shares the room with his 3-year-old sister, Paloma, who recently transitioned from her crib. To accommodate both children comfortably, the couple replaced Roman's original Donald Judd-inspired daybed with a custom bunk bed. Giancarlo Valle designed this bunk bed to function as a "room within a room," taking advantage of the loft's high ceilings to incorporate chunky posts and a wide ladder. The design also allows for easy on-site assembly, breaking down into five pieces that interlock like a puzzle. Each bunk is equipped with reading sconces, providing individual light sources and fostering independence for both children. The top bunk, designated for Roman, is described as his "private little world in the clouds," while the bottom offers Paloma her own space. Giancarlo's signature wavy furniture designs are integrated into the bunk bed's posts, resembling "giant beanstalks." This wavy motif is consistently applied throughout the children’s long bedroom hallway, featuring built-in drawers and bookshelves with rippling edges. This millwork not only serves as storage for clothes, toys, and artwork but also optimizes otherwise unused space, freeing up the main area for a work and craft table. For the room's color scheme, Jane opted for a gender-neutral palette that moves beyond traditional grays, choosing powder blue and muted orangey red. This color combination holds personal significance for the couple, having appeared in various aspects of their children's lives since Roman's birth. Jane describes the pairing as classic, timeless, whimsical, and fun. The chosen bedroom palette also influenced the branding of her children's skincare business, Paloroma, a name derived from her children's names. Paloma and Roman are actively involved in trying out new products, fostering a sense of pride in the brand. Despite the potential for Roman to desire his own room as he gets older, the siblings genuinely enjoy sharing their unique and thoughtfully designed space, even missing each other when one is away. #KidsRooms #FengShui #HomeDesign #CustomFurniture #InteriorDesign #BunkBeds #ColorPalette #ArchitecturalDesign #ChildrensBedrooms

This article explores seven distinct children's room designs that blend playfulness, whimsy, and style, catering to discerning parents who seek tasteful yet functional spaces for their little ones. These designs span newborn nurseries to rooms for older children, drawing inspiration from various architectural and cultural contexts. The first example is a London penthouse designed by Charu Gandhi, who created a sophisticated yet playful environment for two young children. The design features bespoke bunkbeds with a climbing wall, a desk, and adjustable lacquered cherry red shelves, all incorporating an oceanic theme. The children's bathroom includes charming handmade scalloped tiles and a unique bath, reflecting a blend of whimsy and elegance that ensures the space's longevity as the children grow. Next, a 6,500-square-foot child-friendly home in Ahmedabad, designed by MuseLAB, emphasizes a personal, maintenance-free, and childproof aesthetic. The daughters' bedroom features a watercolor wallpaper and varying levels, designed to stimulate inquisitive minds and adapt as they age. This home, dubbed 'The Nest,' is characterized by fluid and 'homey' elements, fostering warmth and joy. Sonam Kapoor's Mumbai home showcases a maximalist cocooning style, distinguished by Indian craftsmanship. Designer Kavita Singh collaborated on the project, with Jaipur-based fresco artist Vikas Soni painting a whimsical Indian jungle mural in the nursery. Custom furniture, stuffed animals, a 1960s Art Deco chandelier, and Hermès toys contribute to a rich and unique atmosphere. A 6,500-square-foot Hyderabad home, titled 'Equinox' by Studio Nilasha, merges Indian and Dutch cultural influences. The children’s wing, designed for twin daughters, contrasts with the rest of the house by using light oak wood and soft blush accents, avoiding overly feminine decor. This adaptable space features a playroom with a ball pit, reading nooks, a mock play kitchen, and custom cots convertible into standard beds. An Indian tech entrepreneur’s San Francisco house, designed by Alexis Banks Humiston, incorporates Indian spirit through hand-painted Phuljari murals, bone inlay tables, and copper leaf details. The 9,500-square-foot home for three young daughters prioritizes comfort, liveability, and adaptability within a mid-century modern structure, celebrating heritage and family. Finally, a Zen Haven in Bengaluru, a 6,600-square-foot home by Balan + Nambisan Architects, highlights a nursery and daughter’s bedroom. The nursery features playful wallpaper, an arched canopy bed, rounded furniture, and a Montessori-style playhouse with multi-level steps, a magnetic board, and a game zone, promoting creativity and activity while maintaining a serene backdrop. #NurseryDesign #KidsBedrooms #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #ChildrensRooms #LuxuryHomes #PlayroomIdeas #CustomFurniture

Jess Diab, an Los Angeles-based designer, transformed an 8-year-old client's request for a princess bed into a vibrant, Spice Girls-inspired canopy bed. The client, Mila, and her family had recently moved to Scottsdale, Arizona, from L.A., and Mila was starting at a new school. Diab drew inspiration from the slumber-party scene in the movie "Spice World," envisioning a raised bed with a canopy of colorful sheer fabric to evoke a cozy, conversational atmosphere for sleepovers. Mila, who was described as mature for her age, actively participated in the design process, requesting specific elements such as family photos and a meditation space. She even provided a hand-drawn rendering with a rainbow color scheme, which became a central inspiration for the project. Diab emphasized the importance of fostering a child's imagination during the design process, acknowledging that she was also designing for her own "inner child." The design process began with selecting the right color palette. Diab referenced a vintage Salvatore Ferragamo sandal for color inspiration, aiming to find shades that complemented each other. She and her team sourced seven different, relatively inexpensive, semitransparent fabrics from various textile vendors in downtown L.A. The transparency of the fabrics was crucial for practical reasons: Mila's mother wanted to be able to see her daughter, and Mila needed light for reading, with the nearest light source being bedside lamps. Once the fabrics were chosen, custom window-treatments brand Everhem assisted in sewing the panels together. The finished curtains were then hung from a well-oiled track on the ceiling, allowing them to glide smoothly. Mila can easily open and close the canopy using 3-foot-long wands. To ensure a polished look, Diab requested that the contractor apply molding around the hardware to conceal the metal mechanism, integrating the canopy seamlessly into the room's design. Beyond the bed itself, Diab extended the colorful theme to another area of the room. She created a matching set of rainbow sheers to frame a niche in a corner of the bedroom where Mila has a mirror. This additional design element allows Mila to feel like royalty even when she is not in her bed, completing the playful and imaginative atmosphere of the space and catering to the concept of dress-up and fantasy. #KidsRooms #BedroomDesign #CanopyBed #InteriorDesign #RainbowDecor #ChildhoodImagination #CustomDesign #FabricSelection #PlayfulSpaces

The children's room offers a unique opportunity for homeowners and architects to apply creative design solutions that encourage play, exploration, and learning. This article highlights 16 innovative children's rooms and play spaces that exemplify modern kids' room design concepts, ranging from practical reading nooks to adventurous climbing walls and indoor swings. These designs demonstrate how to integrate functionality with fun, creating engaging environments for children. Several examples illustrate these principles. One playroom effectively utilizes slanted ceilings in Beijing’s Starburst House, featuring mountain-shaped wall cushions that complement the architectural lines. An outdoor play cubby with a kid-sized deck was designed by FGR Architects for Bloomfield House in Victoria, Australia, offering a dedicated area for children's enjoyment. A Tribeca loft showcases a theatrical nursery with gray and yellow curtains that can be used to create a stage, adding a playful element to an otherwise sophisticated apartment. In Melbourne, the Tower House incorporates a netted children’s study, where Oxley netting allows kids to read and relax with views of the garden. A Wicker Park abode features a "rope room" designed by Perimeter Architects, presenting a unique challenge in using slack materials for an active play space. The home of Dwell founder Lara Hedberg Deam includes a child's room with bold patterns and an indoor swing, using Marimekko bedding to enhance the vibrant atmosphere. An environmentally friendly kids’ room in a Harlem townhouse features a custom play area with a reading nook, a loft bed with a secret passageway, and ample storage, all designed by a theatrical set designer. In New Jersey, a child's bedroom incorporates bridged bunk beds, a creative solution to connect two sleeping areas with a Venetian-style arched bridge. A Brooklyn brownstone conversion includes a Harry Potter-worthy play area under a staircase, complete with an egg-shaped nook and soft pebble pillows. Scenario Architecture designed a London Victorian terrace house with a children's bedroom featuring a climbing wall and a fireman's pole for accessing a hidden eave spot. In Los Angeles, a child’s bedroom is designed to resemble a home’s exterior, complete with custom carpeting, millwork, a reading nook under the stairs, a mini door, window, and a magnetic chalkboard wall. A cottage in the English countryside includes a plywood climbing wall in a child’s bedroom, emphasizing kid-friendly and affordable materials. An Austin bungalow renovation includes a green reading nook cleverly integrated into a dormer, providing a cozy space with treetop views. Architect Bergendy Cooke designed a kid-friendly home in Queenstown with a combination bunk bed and playhouse for her daughters, allowing for both independent and collaborative play. Another design features a reading nook accessed via a climbing wall and rope lead, adding an adventurous element to the room. Finally, an Orcas Island retreat includes a secret chute leading to a ball pit, fulfilling the owners' desire for a playful and adventurous environment for their children. #KidsRooms #ChildrensPlaySpaces #ModernDesign #InteriorDesign #PlayfulInteriors #CreativeKidsRooms #HomeRenovation #ArchitecturalDesign #ReadingNooks

Children's environments significantly influence their imagination and creativity, necessitating visually stimulating spaces. This article presents ten adaptable and creative decorating ideas designed to foster an inspiring room for a child's growth, balancing style with practicality. These concepts are suitable for various ages, making it easier to maintain an engaging and functional space over time. One design idea involves a study nook crafted from charcoal laminate by Laminex, which provides a striking contrast against a vibrant pink wall. This setup, featured in a functional family home, demonstrates how specific color and material choices can define an area, offering both utility and aesthetic appeal within a child's bedroom. Another approach highlights the creation of a playful cubby nook within a refreshed Edwardian home. This custom-made plywood cubby, shared with a Plyroom bed, is filled with cushions and books, serving as a private and imaginative retreat. Lauren Li of Sisällä Interior Design emphasizes its role as a great hiding spot, underscoring the importance of incorporating elements that encourage play and privacy for children. Melissa Bonney, director at The Designory, advocates for inspiring and functional rooms to encourage children's investment in their personal space. An example is a bedroom decorated in a calming soft grey-green, complemented by a small desk area. This design promotes creativity and a tranquil atmosphere, showcasing the psychological impact of color and dedicated workspaces. A Japanese-inspired home in Melbourne extends its serene aesthetic into a girl’s room, featuring a unique portal window that frames nature. The room employs a soft pink and light timber palette, creating a calming and inspiring environment that blends minimalist design with natural elements. For a family home in the NSW Southern Highlands, a 'refined but sweet' brief was executed through floral wallpaper and a plush white armchair, adding elegance and comfort to the child's room. This design illustrates how classic and gentle touches can create a sophisticated yet child-friendly space. Kyal and Kara's dream family home on the NSW Central Coast showcases a kids' room with natural tones, promoting a calm and cozy feel. Color is introduced through decor, and a bunk bed painted in Taubmans Endure ‘Charcoal Grey’ grounds the space, combining neutral backdrops with vibrant accents. A more subdued traveler's theme is achieved in another kid's room through rustic airplane models and a large yacht model on a bookshelf. This design suggests a subtle narrative for the space, encouraging imagination without overwhelming the senses with excessive thematic elements. In a luxurious holiday home in Byron Bay, a shared kids' room features striking wallpaper and timber ladders connecting a ground-floor play area to an elevated sleeping zone. This design emphasizes the integration of distinct activity zones and the use of bold patterns for a playful yet sophisticated look. Finally, a renovated Federation home in Sydney includes a beautifully appointed third bedroom for visiting grandchildren. Elegant furnishings and matching bedheads upholstered in Zanskar Indian toile fabric from Seneca Textiles illustrate how traditional styles can be adapted to create a welcoming and refined space for younger guests, blending period character with fresh new features. #KidsRoomDecorating #CreativeSpaces #ChildrensBedrooms #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #FunctionalKidsRooms #PlayfulDesign #StudyNooks #FamilyHomes #ChildDevelopment

Interior designer Evans Geisler and her architect husband undertook a significant renovation of their two-story Williamsburg row house, transforming it from a dual-unit bachelor pad into a single-family home tailored for a family with three young sons. The couple purchased the house in 2014 from Geisler’s brother, who had acquired it in 2007. The initial state of the house was characterized by two separate units: one on the ground floor occupied by Geisler's brother's college roommate, and the second floor where her brother resided. The primary goal of the renovation was to consolidate these into a cohesive single-family residence, while also incorporating a small pied-à-terre apartment at the back of the second floor. Geisler described the house's original aesthetic as typical of two young men living in Williamsburg, lacking architectural personality and requiring a comprehensive update. The row houses in Williamsburg are often narrow and basic, prompting Geisler's initial improvement to be the removal of the entryway hallway, which she believed contributed to a sense of confinement. On the main floor, the design strategy focused on creating an open-plan layout by removing as many interior walls as possible, integrating the kitchen and living room into a single fluid space. A key element of this transformation was the restoration of the original staircase, which, along with a newly installed built-in bookcase, became prominent focal points upon entering the home. The original staircase, deemed the only element possessing inherent character, underwent extensive restoration. Layers of paint were meticulously stripped from the newel post, missing balusters were replaced, and the treads and handrail were stained dark, contrasting with white-painted balusters. In the kitchen, the design incorporated Caesarstone countertops and Ikea cabinets, complemented by open shelving. Geisler highlighted her preference for open shelving in the kitchen, noting that maintaining a coordinated look with white, off-white, and wood elements facilitated a clean and harmonious aesthetic. The renovation also extended to the rear of the first floor, where the bathroom was enlarged. A playroom was created in this area, featuring a Murphy bed for accommodating guests and a built-in desk designed for homework, catering to the needs of a growing family. Upstairs, new walls were constructed to define two bedrooms and to functionally separate the aforementioned rear apartment from the main living quarters of the house. Geisler's overarching design philosophy for the home was to create a casual and highly kid-friendly environment, given that she had a toddler and was pregnant during the renovation. This involved avoiding overly fussy or expensive elements and implementing organizational systems to mitigate clutter and manage the daily demands of family life. All three sons share a single bedroom, which is equipped with a crib and custom bunk beds. Geisler acknowledged that some might find this arrangement unconventional but noted its general effectiveness, particularly in fostering interaction among the boys. The interior walls throughout the house were uniformly painted in Benjamin Moore's Chalk White, and the floors were stained to the darkest possible shade. Geisler emphasized the importance of a cohesive design throughout the entire house, asserting that a consistent aesthetic facilitates a smooth transition between rooms and contributes to a unified overall impression. #WilliamsburgRenovation #InteriorDesign #KidFriendlyHome #OpenPlanLiving #StaircaseRestoration #KitchenDesign #CustomBunkBeds #FamilyHome #BrooklynDesign