If you're on the hunt for small kids bedroom ideas, you've come to the right place: we're always on the lookout for stylish, space-saving options here at Ideal Home, and we've compiled a list of the very best for you.
Like all good children's room ideas, we've made a point of helping you transform their room into a space for them to play, do homework, sleep, and be their very best and wildest selves.
As we're working with a smaller space, though, we've also looked for options that will help you to pack in as much storage as possible – not to mention sourced those timeless colours, patterns and designs that will grow with your child.
Small kids bedroom ideas
‘When it comes to small kids bedroom ideas, opt for multi-purpose storage that can be adapted for their needs such as under the bed for toys and clothes, or storage under a desk for colouring pencils and books,’ suggests Ann Marie Cousins, Founder, AMC Design.
’Bedroom storage boxes and accessories can also be changed as a child’s taste changes as they grow up, so keep the core of the room (and the big ticket items) neutral so they don’t need to be replaced.’
Don't forget, though, to have fun with it all. 'The absolute wonder and delight of working on a kid's bedroom means you get to play with quirky and adventurous designs and be a kid again yourself,' promises Marianne Shillingford, creative director of Dulux.
So, on that note...
1. Think vertically
If you're working with less floorspace, it's always a good idea to incorporate some bedroom wall decor ideas into your small kids room. Especially if you tie it together with a theme.
'Themed bedrooms are a fun way to create a space that reflects your child's interests and personality,' says Sally Jackson, founder of Soren’s House.
'There are options available to suit every decor style, from wildlife to dinosaurs and outer space. To create a room that will last, avoid going overboard on one theme. Instead, decorate the room in a neutral tone and use accessories, wall hangings, and bedding to add the theme.'
Sally adds that these items (like the paper insects above) can be easily swapped out as your child's interests change and can be handed down, recycled, or donated when your little one is ready for a bedroom makeover'.
2. Paint a mural
Bedroom accent wall ideas are worth their weight in gold when it comes to adding some oomph to your small kids bedroom ideas.
'Go wild and create a place for them to explore their adventurous side,' advises Marianne. 'A nature-themed room can be perfect for kids and is not too difficult to create using three shades of green on a background of pale blue.' .
She suggests you try use a light teal like Atmosphere as main wall colour, and create a layered jungle horizon line with three steadily deeper tones: Willow Tree from B&Q, Putting Green from Amazon, and Enchanted Eden from Dulux.
'Using a bit of torn paper to separate the colours will create a tropical rainforest background,' she adds, noting that you can check out the how-to video on Dulux YouTube.
3. Try a cabin bed
One of our favourite bedroom design tips from storage expert Rachal Hutcheson, national retail manager at Sharps, is to invest in a cabin bed and weave it into your kids small bedroom ideas.
'Cabin beds are classic pieces that never fail to delight children of most ages,' she says.
'With bases made up of deep drawers and cupboards, overhead shelves are also ideal for keeping the floor tidy and reserved only for playing.'
4. Take the high road
Of course, if you're trying to suss out how to divide a shared kids room (and maximise space), then bunk beds are probably the answer.
'Whether you’re short on space, or your children prefer sleeping in the same room, creating a bedroom for two or more children doesn’t need to be challenging,' says Sally reassuringly.
'The key is to opt for durable, high-quality furniture that can withstand the energy of active bedtimes, coupled with a theme that appeals to the children.'
She adds that bunk beds are a great space-saver for siblings, particularly if you invest in a brand such as Oliver Furniture, which designs furniture to accommodate your growing family.
'Accessories like matching bed guards and under-bed storage will ensure your furniture lasts for years to come,' she says, 'and adding bedding and wall decor to suit each child's individual interests is a simple and effective way to make sure everyone is happy.'
5. Bag some baskets for storage
You need a bevy of toy storage ideas if you are working with a small kids bedroom, trust us!
'Rooms that are organised evoke feelings of calm that have benefits, not only for adults, but children, too,' says Rachal.
'The "less is more" mantra can be applied just as easily to kids bedrooms, despite the regular mass of toys, books, games and treasures that collect over the years.'
Sally agrees, adding that 'colourful baskets, like these ones from Bellybambino, that are in keeping with the space or solutions that double up as toys, such as wagons, will help to keep the bedroom feeling warm and welcoming'.
6. Conceal clutter with a curtain
'Not only are bedrooms a space for sleep and relaxation, but they are also a place for kids to play and be creative, so they often have lots of toys and games,' comments Ann Marie.
'Storage plays a key role, so ensure that functional storage is smartly incorporated into small kids bedroom ideas, without it feeling overcrowded.'
One way to make your small kids room ideas transition more easily from playtime to bedtime is by having a curtain that can be drawn over shelves of toys and books.
This means kids can proudly display their favourite toys and have them within reach for playing, but when it's time to settle down for bed, the room won't feel cluttered or overstimulating. While they might be very busy during the day, kids need a calm environment to get a good night's sleep just like we do.
7. Throw down a colourful rug
A big rug is a no-brainer for small kids room ideas. It'll anchor the space, add soft texture for tiny toes and, if you go for something patterned, it'll be forgiving of felt-tip pen marks and any other stains (although watch out for the LEGO/race cars underfoot).
The best rugs can instantly make any room feel more welcoming and give a bit of cushioning on knees and elbows for kids playing on the floor. Rugs also have the added bonus of softening the acoustics so not every single thud of an indoor football can be heard downstairs.
8. Build a space-savvy window seat
Incorporate a compact window seat to create a cosy area for reading and chilling out that won't encroach too much on the rest of the small kids bedroom ideas. Add storage boxes beneath so your little one has lots of space to put their toys and games, and layer up with lots of cushions.
Ann Marie says you can have fun with storage boxes and bins by using different colours for different items in boys and girls bedroom ideas. 'This will also help encourage your children to store their items correctly, as I find they react really well to colour,' she says.
9. Create a magnetic feature wall
Why not make a fun magnetic wall in your small kids' room ideas? This might help you carve out a mini 'play zone' with other toys and some comfy seating. You could make yours with magnetic paint or install a magnetic memo board available at places like IKEA.
A magnet wall provides a lovely place to show off paintings, or for playing with solar system magnets, animal magnets, or spelling out their name with classic letters of the alphabet.
'Kids are forever growing, and their bedrooms need to evolve with them from nursery ideas to pre-teen spaces – creating different zones helps with this and zones the room for learning, playing and relaxing,' comments Rona Olds, Director of Product at Habitat.
As they get older, the magnet wall can become a place for pinning useful reminders and revision cards.
10. Distract with an accent colour
Upcycle furniture you already own with a bright paint shade of your child's choice for clever small kids bedroom ideas. Going for something bold on bedframes, wardrobes and chests of drawers will create a big impact and draw attention away from the room's petite proportions.
Here, yellow and grey complement each other in a stylish and functional kids' room. The curved wooden shapes of the bunk bed design score extra design points.
11. Make a reading corner with floor cushions
Lay down floor cushions near your child's bookshelves, hang artwork related to their favourite stories and put up fairy lights to make a cosy atmosphere in girls and boys bedroom ideas for reading stories together.
Stack floor cushions up and store them on top of wardrobes when not in use to give you more space for playing games.
12. Keep tiny furniture as long as possible
Don’t upgrade your child's toddler bed until the last minute. Most cots convert into toddler beds and you’ll be amazed at the difference in size they are compared to a standard single.
Depending on individual size and growth, your child shouldn’t need a full-size bed until they are around primary school starting age. The same goes for bedroom wardrobes and chests of drawers; tiny clothes take up less room, so stick to small proportioned furniture for as long as possible to leave more floor space for play.
13. Make sure everything is easily accessible
Working with small kids bedroom ideas doesn’t mean a child will accumulate fewer belongings. In fact, younger children’s toys are notoriously larger than big kid versions, so it’s time to get savvy with storage. Encourage tidiness in a small space by ensuring storage is easily accessible and within reach for little ones.
Create a library for oversized books displayed front ways. Remove fitted wardrobe doors for an uncluttered and airy look and replace them with shelves for baskets and bins. Labelled wire storage will keep clothes off the floor.
14. Store toys under the bed
'Under-bed is the unsung hero of storage spaces. It’s simply one of the smartest and easiest ways to add masses of storage without it cluttering your room. Although many beds are now designed with built-in drawers, there are ways to create something similar if you’re looking to utilise the "dead" space,' says Rachal.
'Baskets and boxes are an obvious choice but make sure you measure the width and height of the space first. When selecting containers go for products with wheels to guarantee an easy glide and opt for longer models that can be used from each end of the bed.'
Under-bed storage is a godsend in children’s bedrooms as toys can be organised and out of sight and the low level means little ones can access what that need (and hopefully tidy away too).
For a streamlined look in small children's room ideas, choose a bed that comes with a matching under-bed trundle on wheels. Or for a budget version, make it colourful and fun with a series of bright plastic boxes. Your little one will enjoy making labels for boxes, too.
15. Invest in a toy chest
There’s a reason sturdy wooden toy chests have been around for centuries – they are super useful! And, if you can make yours multi-functional, even better. This wooden ottoman works as storage, a colour co-ordinating bench with a soft seat pad and triples as a nightstand in this twin children’s bedroom.
Make it practical by storing items that may not be used every day, such as fresh linens, warm blankets or out of season clothing.
16. Pop a pull out desk under a raised bed
When space is a premium in small kids bedroom ideas, squeezing a desk into a children’s bedroom can be impractical. Instead, go for a cabin bed or mid-sleeper that comes with a pop-out desk and can be used as and when it’s needed only. They often come with additional side storage too.
Alternatively, a pull-down table fixed to a wall or floating shelf mounted at waist level is a space-saving option as vital desk space for teenage girls and boys alike.
17. Create more floor space with a high sleeper
Floor space is precious in a kids' room, it's the building zone for lego, trains, fairy kingdoms and hours of fun. So a high sleeper is a great option. Alex & Kris, Founders & Directors, Nöa & Nani point out that the space beneath can easily be changed into a functional desk area for learning when children are older.
'We also suggest adding some high shelving so that books can be easily reached for bedtime stories,' they advise.
In this room, the space under the bed has been turned into a lounging den for reading. As you start to need teenage girl or teenage boys bedroom ideas, this space can be adjusted to provide extra room to store for clothes or a desk.
18. Utilise wasted wall space for storage
If possible, it's always wise to bespoke for wall storage in small kids bedroom ideas. This smart kid's room features a wall of storage cubes to elevate everything off the floor and onto one wall – including everything from the TV to books and cuddly toys.
This solution is ideal for small spaces because you have the vertical advantage of using wall space you wouldn't otherwise be using.
Whether a full wall or just a small section of a free wall allows plenty of storage potential, from floor to ceiling being utilised. Freeing up the floor space not only makes the rooms feel bigger, but also creates valuable space for little ones to play.
19. Be clever with built in storage
In small kids room ideas built-in storage can be a lifesaver in making sure the room feels spacious for your child, but still fits all their belongings in. When fitting a built-in wardrobe along one wall, leave a small cut-out for a slim laptop desk, future-proofing the room ready for more grown-up teenage bedroom ideas.
A pinboard like the one in this room can be added above the desk to attach pencil pots, lamps and even a tiny house plant. This will help leave the desk clear so there is plenty of space for them to do their homework.
20. Put a peg rail above the bed
The space over the bed is often only used for wall decor ideas, art and stickers, but double this up as extra storage by placing a peg rail over it. Your child will be able to grab their dressing gown as soon as they step out of bed, and they'll never be able to complain about losing their PE bag again.
From a safety point of view ensure you only hang items that won't fall off and cause any harm to a sleeping child beneath.
21. Paint floorboards a similar colour to the walls
From looking at this room you would never be able to guess the size of it. Despite the tent that has be squeezed into the corner this room looks far from cluttered. This is thanks to the light colour scheme which has been extended from the walls to the floorboards.
Carpets might feel a more natural choice in a kids room, but the bare floorboards make the space feel more spacious than it is, you also have the option to play around with rugs for added warmth and comfort.
22. Swap bookshelves for floating shelves
If you're child is a keen reader, but their small room means there isn't enough space for a proper book shelf, try installing some floating shelves. They might not be able to hold up the last few Harry Potter books, but anything less than 300 pages should be fine.
It is also a great way to create a feature wall in a small space that is functional and stylish.
23. Keep the colour scheme balanced
Small kids bedroom ideas can become easily overwhelmed by clutter and busy colour, leaving them feeling cramped. For this reason, it pays to keep a compact space white, but this doesn't mean colour and pattern can't be used to add fun and character.
Bedding and bedroom curtain ideas are the perfect vehicles for colourful scenes and patterns, and will bring the bed and blinds or curtains into sharp relief in a white room.
Add scatter cushions and rugs to increase the impact. Alternatively, knock colour back to a few key accessories, such as table lamps or wall art for a more controlled scheme. Bear in mind that objects and toys targeted at children are often brightly coloured or patterned, so that once the room is a little more lived-in it may appear more balanced than when first painted.
24. Add smart storage solutions
When it comes to storage for small children's room ideas you need to think outside the box. Quite literally, by limiting the amount of bulky storage, such as wardrobes and chests of drawers.
Instead think about adding peg rails, clothes rails and baskets all attached to the walls to minimise impact on the room but maximise storage potential.
25. Buy the right bed
Often the focal point of the room, the bed is a crucial consideration. Traditional bunk-beds are the perfect space-saver if you have a small shared bedroom. It is also worth considering buying children's rather than adult-size furniture, as one way of increasing floor space.
Most bunk bed designs, for example, can be bought in narrower and shorter sizes. However, you will need to weigh this up against the added expense of having to buy again once your child outgrows everything.
26. Limit wallpaper to one wall
With so many adorable options out there for children's bedroom wallpaper, it's easy to fall in love with some bright, bold pattern. Don't despair: although simpler is generally better with small kids bedroom ideas, it can be done. If you keep the print to one wall and ground it with furniture in front, you can achieve both cute and charming.
Keep the rest of the room relatively simple in contrast, but with some smaller spots of vibrancy to keep the scheme balanced, ideally picking out and continuing a colour. Here, the orange bedside lamp calls back to the orange wings of the owls, and the patchwork quilt has detailing which harks back to the blue.
27. Assess the shape of the room
Awkwardly shaped small kids room ideas rooms can be tricky to decorate. Make use of alcoves by building in storage like the shelves and drawers in this room - think about going bespoke if you are struggling to find something that fits. Instead of a bed frame opt for a futon or low platform bed that can be slotted under a lower ceiling.
If your room is in the eaves, squeeze a few bean bags into the corners to make a cosy lounging area. Any beams can also be used to attach rails or pegs for clothes, instead of trying to wrestle a wardrobe into the room. Make a splash in the room by fitting a hanging chair to the highest ceiling point in the centre of the room, just make sure you hang it from a sturdy beam.
28. Invest in multi-functional furniture
A small desk that doubles as a bedside table is a great solution for small children's room ideas. Welcome a chair that can be used both by mum for a bedtime story and by a child for homework or colouring-in.
The soft contrast between the pink and the blue bedroom colour scheme keeps the eye moving around the room so it doesn't feel stagnant.
29. Streamline furniture choices
Cramming too many things into small kids bedroom ideas is a sure-fire way to make it feel claustrophobic. Because of this, it's important to prioritise what your child needs and what they don't. Children's clothes don't require full-length hanging space so a half-wardrobe, half-drawer option can be a real winner in a small room.
30. Make the most of high ceilings
If floor space is small but the ceiling is relatively high, drawing attention to the latter can make the space feel roomier than it essentially is. The best way to do this is with choice, trailing decorations that draw the eye to specific places without making the room unbalanced.
Here, a string of fun, brightly-coloured fairy lights lifts the attention away from any potential playtime clutter on the floor and towards the clean, high walls. Fun alternatives could be butterflies on an invisible wire that seem to fly away or cute hanging charms around a light fixture.
Be cautious: such decorations should be carefully selected, or else the room feels too crammed with embellishments.
FAQs:
How can I make the most of a small children's bedroom on a budget?
Whether large or small the most affordable way to decorate a space is with paint. Rachel Homer, interiors writer and mum of two suggests. 'For small children’s room ideas, go for a two-toned paint effect that is not only on-trend but will create an illusion of space.
'Keep the top half a light and bright shade to bounce light around the room. Then choose a darker shade for the bottom which will also be practical for hiding wear and tear. When it comes to storage, plastic boxes and tubs are more affordable than wooden versions and available in all types of beautiful and bright colours to match your scheme.'
When it comes to buying items and furniture for the space, wait for seasonal sales where possible and utilise home decor discounts the rest of the year.
How do you arrange a small bedroom for a child?
When it comes to small kids bedroom ideas for design and layout – less is usually more. Keep the decor simple and add colour through accessories and toys. Make sure shelves and furniture are mounted at a child-friendly level and where you can choose ‘mini-version' furniture to increase the sense of space.
Carl Walsh from Bed Guru says to measure your space so you know exactly what you're working with, and can plan your bedroom so it makes use of every spare inch. Hunt down a piece that matches your measurements as closely as possible.
Place furniture around a floor-play space if possible or keep the area under a raised bed clear for this purpose. Lastly, go for a simple window treatment that allows lots of daylight into the room. A simple blackout blind is a practical option.
How to design a small room for 2 kids?
Fitting two young kids into a small room is a common decorating dilemma for many growing families. Being smart with furniture and storage solutions is key to shared bedroom ideas because both are necessary but both take up valuable space.
Choosing bunk beds is one of the best options, with two stacked beds instead of one over the same floor space. Use valuable wall space to hang racks, peg rails and clothes hooks to elevate belongings off the floor.
How to stylishly squeeze an extra bed into a kids bedroom?
While bunk beds are an incredibly popular option when it comes to squeezing an extra bed into a kids bedroom, you could also try a clever stackable bed (aka a trundle bed), too.
Low enough to the ground to be stored underneath another bed, a trundle bed frame has wheels, making it easy to roll out and use. Which means you can hide it away for playtime and wheel it out for sleepovers/those nights when your little one needs someone there beside them.
We hope you find something you love in our list of must-try small kids bedroom ideas, and remember: the world can appear immense when you're little, so they'll likely love retreating somewhere small and cosy.
So, yes, it may be trickier to decorate, but a small kids bedroom will make your favourite mini human feel safe and cosseted. And isn't that the entire point of a bedroom, anyway?
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