If entering your child’s room is like wading through a jungle of scattered books, discarded treasures, and laundry that didn’t quite make it into the hamper, maybe it’s time for a room reboot. We’ve compiled inspirational ideas and tips from design specialists to turn any kid’s bedroom into a functional and tranquil space.

Getting Started

“It’s really important to map out the room and prioritize,” said Melissa Wilson, a design specialist for Pottery Barn Kids who provides free consultations to customers seeking a room makeover. Is it just for sleeping or for play and study too? “If the room is multi-functional, I try to break it up so one portion is for sleep, one for clothes, a reading nook, and a play area.”

It’s important to allow kids to have input, said Wilson, who recently designed a girl’s room based on the movie Frozen. “We used light blues and coral, and had a canopy with crystals over her bed. “It gave her a sense of being in that environment.”

Sibling Separation

“Color is a great way to give a sense of ownership to each child (sharing a room),” Wilson explained. Let kids choose their own bedding or favorite color for an accent wall and add a shelf or corkboard next to each bed to help define personal space. A nightstand can hold books, small collectibles, or a favorite stuffed animal for each child. Select colors and accents that are complementary rather than matching.

Tweens and Teens

As kids grow, so does their need for personal space. Wilson suggests updating bedding to solid colors and switching the toy box for a desk so there’s room to study and create. “Add something simple to the walls, such as a pin board to display awards or a picture of friends, so it becomes more of a grown up space.”

Accessorize

Here’s where you add personality to a room: Paint, window treatments, area rugs, lamps, and artwork give a child a sense of pride in his/her room, and custom murals and vinyl decals can turn any room into a unique retreat.

“You can accessorize with toys hanging from the wall, or start with one focal piece like an antique dresser or rocking chair,” suggested Wilson. Match the child’s interest by hanging a bike wheel on the wall, or favorite doll in a frame. For a child whose dad traveled a lot, Wilson hung a world map that allowed the child to follow his father’s trips with pins and photos of dad.

Contain Clutter

“If everything has a place, it keeps the space organized,” said Megan Morris, founder of MHM Professional Staging. Start by clearing out the room. Morris suggests getting the kids involved. “Ask them which toys they might be able to share with kids who don’t have many.”

Kids love to collect things, and it’s important to let their personality shine through. “They like to see their things on display. When they have a say in it, it’s really fun,” she said. Give each child a special shelf or drawer for treasures. Square fabric containers come in great colors and patterns and are useful for containing Legos, cars, and other small toys. They keep the room tidy but still allow for easy access to frequently used items.

Budget Friendly 

A splash of paint on the walls, a fresh set of sheets, or an accent rug can create a new look without breaking the bank. Inexpensive frames with family photos or a child’s own artwork can also spice things up. “It doesn’t have to be big ticket items,” advised Morris. “You can just do an accent wall or new bed spread. It’s easier to change later as your kids grow up.”

Need More Inspiration?

• Visit potterybarnkids.com to learn more about their products and free design services.
• Check out RoomsToGo.com for complete bedroom sets, Disney accessories, and sports-themed storage solutions.
• Log onto HGTV.com/kids-rooms to find the latest trends in kids’ bedrooms, along with fantastic makeover and decorating tips.
• IKEA offers a good selection of pint-sized furniture, bedding sets, and quirky accessories.
• Design your own mural or wall graphics at muralsyourway.com or fathead.com.