Design Ideas for a Boy & Girl's Room for Kids

Color

• Color is among the most important elements of room decor when designing for kids of either sex. Parents may choose the standard pink or purple for girls, or blue and green for boys, or may opt for something a bit more interesting. Consider combining a neutral tone such beige or taupe with a jewel tone; red, blue, ochre are modern favorites. To add a bit of visual interest, and perhaps create a focal point, add a few stencils in bold, bright colors; geometric patterns, polka dots and squares are all widely used and simple to apply. Since selecting one color may grow tiresome, and because favorite colors tend to change with age, select a neutral wall color, such as beige, white, cream or a soft gray, and add color with accents, wall hangings or similar pieces. This makes the design more flexible and is ideal for rooms shared by opposite sex siblings.

Furniture

• While color is important in creating a kid-friendly feel, furniture is key in making the room functional. Must-haves include a bed--possibly two or a bunk bed if siblings share space--as well as a night stand and dresser. These pieces, regardless of style, are essential for making the room comfortable and organized. Additional pieces may include a bookcase or two, and, if space permits, a seating area. School age children should have a desk with plenty of light, plus a few files and drawers to keep work organized. In small rooms with multiple occupants, beds should be situated at least a foot or two apart, and separated with a night table. This space makes it easier to move around the room, helps to keep beds made, and prevents clutter. Larger rooms may employ a number of setups to accommodate more than one child, the best of which will leave plenty of space for moving around the bed, and makes moving around the room comfortable.

Organization

• Toddlers and young children should have plenty of storage for toys, which may be as simple as cloth bins purchased from a home improvement or decorating store. These bins, which are easily stored in a closet or under the bed, are available in a number of colors, shapes and sizes. These pieces should be selected to fit in with the décor of the space, and be as unobtrusive as possible. If limited space is available, find lidded bins that may be stashed under the bed, and add a few shelves to walls and closets to increase space. Hollow footstools or end tables are stylish furniture pieces that double as storage for extra bedding, seasonal clothing or toys.

Light

• Lighting, both natural and from lamps, will make studying, reading and other activities more comfortable, while drapes and blinds will make sleeping easier. Avoid drapery that's dark or heavy in kid's rooms, as they will prevent natural light from entering and often create an excessively formal feel. Instead, opt for lightweight cotton or sheer fabrics in bright colors. These are more fun and more effective at letting in light when it's needed. To eliminate light for sleeping, install a pair of blinds, which also adds privacy. The most widely used form of lighting is a ceiling fan and light combination. These are simple, functional and widely available. Silk or glass lanterns, plus desk or floor lamps, are also inexpensive options and are a bit more versatile when it comes to placement.