Kids' Room Ideas for Knights in Shining Armor

Walls

• A mural is the most effective way to create a medieval bedroom mood. One option is to hire a muralist. If this isn't possible, paint gray stone blocks on the wall yourself. Lightly tap some tinted glaze on your blocks in darker and lighter shades using a sponge. Sponges and glaze create brick texture and color variations. Another option is mural wallpaper along one wall. There are vinyl wall murals that you can stick and peel as desired, which are ideal for renters who cannot paint.

Furnishings

• To give the room an Old World feel, stick to solid, sturdy wood furniture. Wood furniture not only lends an authentic feel, but it's a sound investment. Wood is timeless and neutral, so once your young squire grows out of the fairytale look he can still use it into adulthood. Look for pieces carved with ornate designs or stained rich colors. Distress them a little with sandpaper to give them an aged, worn appearance. Brass or iron hardware, or a few wrought iron additions, fit the theme well.

Fabrics and Floors

• Wood floors are ideal, so if you have them, leave them. If they're rustic looking, all the better. Use faux animal-skin throw rugs to create some soft and cuddly areas. If you don't have wood floors, look for area rugs with a natural stone pattern to create the illusion of a stone floor.

  Hang gothic-style draperies made of heavy materials. A set of velvety deep red or green drapes with gold fringes will create the desired atmosphere. Match the bed with lush, regal bedding and tassled throw pillows. Toss a faux animal skin throw on it for good measure.

Lighting

• Layer the lighting so your child can choose between the desired atmospheric lighting and suitable task lighting. An outstanding effect is a rustic-looking electric candle chandelier set with a dimmer. Alternatively, install electric candle sconces. Use small battery-powered fake candles as a night light by the bed. While these will give excellent mood lighting, your child will also need practical task lighting. Use brass or wrought iron fixtures or lamps to keep with the gothic style.

Accessories

• Dress your champion's walls with a collection of imitation weaponry. Halloween outlets are excellent places to find everything from plastic swords to foam rubber maces. Hit the stores shortly after the Halloween season is over and find them at bargain prices. Pick up a large shield while you're at it to use as a centerpiece, or purchase a shield-shaped mirror for drama.

  Make a coat-of-arms tapestry to hang on the wall. If sewing isn't your thing, make it out of felt. Cut out felt shapes and glue them on a length of felt fabric with tack glue. Theme collections for the shelves, such as dragon eggs or fantasy figurines, will provide finishing touches.