Designing Through the Eyes of a Child
Imagination and Fun Inspire Great Kids' Rooms
Hello there! I'm Erika Ward, Owner and Principal Designer of Erika Ward Interiors. It's my greatest pleasure to inspire you to live well, to live in style, and to extinguish the myth that style and budget are mutually exclusive. Read more about my design philosophy and my work at http://www.blulabelbungalow.com
Hello there! I'm Erika Ward, Owner and Principal Designer of Erika Ward... More »
If you want to know the truth, just ask a child. Children are very telling, even at the expense of embarrassing their parents. When you listen to their stories, it's easy to decipher fact from fiction, though the latter tends to be the most amusing. I'm intrigued by the wonderment in their eyes when they tell the tale of how their cardboard-box-turned-high-performance race car helped them win the Piston Cup.
If we listen intently, their vivid imaginations can provide a valuable source of inspiration when creating kid-approved spaces. Just think of how much more effective we parents and designers would be if we followed their lead. This ideabook features children's rooms that successfully incorporate the fantasies of childhood into real-world designs.
If we listen intently, their vivid imaginations can provide a valuable source of inspiration when creating kid-approved spaces. Just think of how much more effective we parents and designers would be if we followed their lead. This ideabook features children's rooms that successfully incorporate the fantasies of childhood into real-world designs.
|
by Bellisa Design
»
|
| In this room, your little Cinderella is the belle of the ball. The dressmaker details as found in the window treatments and tiered-ruffle bed skirt and pillows are sure to please the most dainty occupant.
|
In the early years, kids love to experience various sports until they find a favorite. Accent walls and sport-inspired accessories such as pillows, rugs, and even light fixtures help your to support their athleticism while providing the flexibility to change when their favorite sport is no longer soccer, but football.
|
by Aurelio Vazquez
»
|
| As an adult, I'm overwhelmed at the potential for fun in this space. Constructing a multi-level entertainment complex like this one will turn your residence into a headquarters for kids. Can't say I didn't warn you. |
| |
| This room is perfect for the budding socialite. Here, her activities range from holding tea parties to sharing girly gossip in the window seat. There's plenty of space for the girls to sleepover so the giggles can continue through the night. |
|
by Aurelio Vazquez
»
|
| Keeping in mind that children are territorial by nature, this room appears to have a distinct division of space. The custom beds, oversized runner, and color scheme cleverly creates two separate, yet cohesive spaces. |
An indoor climbing wall satisfies the active, thrill-seeker in your household. Scaling "the side of a mountain" will keep them occupied for hours and build their physical strength and endurance.
|
by Bellisa Design
»
|
| The crown canopy, also known as a coronet, makes it known that a princess resides in your palace. The dramatic bed and window dressing makes a statement that your heir to the throne has refined taste. |
Living with a little space explorer? Create a space to help him achieve his planetary pursuits. Hang science projects on the wall or from the ceiling to create instant art. Incorporating models helps to turn their galactic obsession into an educational experience.
How much influence did your child have in his or her room design?
More: 40 design-friendly gifts for modern kids
How much influence did your child have in his or her room design?
More: 40 design-friendly gifts for modern kids
Comments

Ella Johnson This is awesome, Erika. While I don't have kids now (yet!), I'll be sure to remember to consult them when the time comes. Thanks for this entry.
3 years ago · Like

Shannon Sadler I love all the ideas!! Great idea book!! Seeing the little girl rooms makes me pine for a daughter but I am so happy with my two boys. :)
3 years ago · Like

Erika Ward - Erika Ward Interiors Thanks so much for your feedback! I always enjoy writing about kid spaces!
3 years ago · Like

trendyb I am redoing by boys' rooms for christmas, so thank you for this post! I need some ideas!!!
3 years ago · Like

Lucie Martin Design, LLC One of my mother's gifts to me as a child was to allow me free reign to decorate my own space...so my bedroom had a red ceiling. I think it is important to ask children what they would like in their spaces, instead of imposing our ideas or the latest trend. Kids see the world in such fresh ways and with so many virtual realities out there, it is important to provide real space where they really feel "at home".
3 years ago · Like

michema5 love the topic. lots of cool ideas. I am working on a new "big girl" room for my 5 yr old girl right now. Any recommendations for sources of nice girls' room furniture?
3 years ago · Like

Emily A. Clark Loving your articles, Erika :)
3 years ago · Like
Ideabook updated on Dec. 13, 2010.
What are you working on?
News From Our Partners
Latest Ideabooks
People found the photos in this ideabook after searching for:
View over a million photos:





