Of all the rooms in your home, your child's bedroom is perhaps the most multifunctional. The space typically sports a bed, dresser and a closet filled to bursting with clothes, books, toys and treasures. And, once your offspring start school, they're expected to complete their homework in the same space. So now the room serves as an office/bedroom/playroom/storage unit. When you consider that children's bedrooms are often some of the smallest rooms in a home, making the most of every square foot is crucial.
CHOOSE COLOR WISELY
To avoid the trap of repainting your child's room every time he or she announces a new favorite color, start with a clean neutral base paint for the walls, preferably in eggshell or satin for easy cleaning. Benjamin Moore Downpour Blue (2063-20) might be too dark for all four walls, but serves as a great tone for one accent wall when teamed up with soft gray or white. It also looks beautiful with bold accessories. If your girl loves pink but you're afraid of the walls appearing too much like cotton candy, opt for Benjamin Moore Sun Washed (2169-70). When paired with pink bedding, the walls give off the slightest blush of color. For a beachy vibe that works for boys and girls of all ages, try Sherwin Robert Williams Sea Salt (SW 6204) for a gray-based blue/green that is oh-so-calming.
Once you've chosen a soft paint color, layer in accessories and bedding that allow your child's personality to shine through. Keep in mind the primary function of the room is to provide a place to sleep, so limit bright colors. In other words, just say no to neon and let warm hues envelop your babes as they drift off to dreamland.
CONTAIN THE CLUTTER
As the room is expected to perform multiple duties, shop for furniture made to function. Look for beds with built-in drawers, seating with storage and bookcases that can accommodate bins. A desk might be needed for your tween or teen, but only if they will use it. Oftentimes a corner of the room decked out with a beanbag or soft furniture is a preferred place for tackling homework, and an unused desk takes up valuable real estate.
Fight the urge to use the room's closet for long-term storage. Outgrown clothing and toys, keepsakes, trophies and such should be relegated to a consignment shop or attic or perhaps donated to someone in need. Items kept in a bedroom closet should be used on a regular basis. Look on Pinterest for storage inspiration and learn clever ways to contain the mess, such as using canvas shoe organizers for Barbie dolls or a pegboard for Nerf guns or Hot Wheels.
Most importantly, when you allow your child to help plan his or her room, your kid is more likely to take ownership in keeping it clean and organized, right? Who's dreaming now?
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