Just for Kids

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Thursday, January 17, 2008

While we were talking to design pros about family-friendly style, we collected their advice about creating kids' personal spaces:

Don't go too far with theme rooms, because children outgrow them quickly. Instead, use smaller accessories -- such as Diego bookends or Dora sheets -- which can be easily and inexpensively changed.

Let children make design choices in small doses. So she adores purple? Steer her toward a subtle shade of that color for the walls, then bring in a brighter hue on a bedspread or pillow.

Invest in furnishings that will move from childhood into teen years: a twin bed, for example, rather than a child-size version.

Wool carpeting with pattern and color will hide stains and is highly cleanable.

Include comfortable adult seating for reading and playtime together.

Open storage such as cubbyholes or shelving will help keep the room tidy and teach kids to stay organized.

In rooms for smaller children, a ceiling light or sconces are best. Table and floor lamps can be easily knocked around by toddlers.

If all else fails, remember: You can always close the door.

Terri Sapienza

SOURCES: Sara Costello, Sandra Meyer, Shanon Munn, Raji Radhakrishnan, Megan Samuels, Claire Schwab.