Home Garden

How to Make Your Attic Space Into a Kid's Room

An attic is the perfect space to reinvent as a kid's room for a number of reasons. Children thrive when they have space to unleash active imaginations and room to run around. An attic provides kids with a space of their own for pretend play, keeps toys and messes out of sight, and moves noisy play away from other family activities. Additionally, most attics have limited headroom, so they are easier for children to navigate as opposed to taller adults.

Instructions

    • 1

      Consult with a home inspector or contractor before beginning renovation if the attic has not previously been remodeled. The floor joists may require reinforcement to support furniture, particularly in an older home. Additionally, professionals can provide information on structural changes as well as adequate wiring and plumbing according to building codes in your municipality.

    • 2

      Provide adequate ventilation and light. Some attics have windows that are not meant to be opened, so they provide light but not air. Replace sealed or small windows with larger standard windows, with childproof modifications for safety. Consider installing skylights to let in as much light into the space as possible.

    • 3

      Decorate the attic with kid-friendly decor. Examples include bright paint colors and posters or wall clings of the child's favorite cartoon figure, sports figure or superhero. Build a stage for a budding performer. Since this will be a separate area for children to enjoy, the decor does not have to match other rooms in your home.

    • 4

      Install easy-care, low-pile carpet such as Berber carpeting. Its tight weave makes it durable enough to stand up to rambunctious activities. Additionally, carpet absorbs sound.

    • 5

      Furnish the room with seating made from kid-friendly washable fabrics such as denim or canvas. Where there are kids, there will be spills.

    • 6

      Install shelving in the areas where the ceiling is lowest. Use the shelving to house books, toys, games and electronic equipment. Hide the wires behind the shelves to keep them out of the way.