Designing kids rooms can be a real challenge. Your kids want a room that is all fun—from the choice of colors right down to easy toy access. You, on the other hand, need that space to be easy to keep clean and well organized. Don't fret. Here are a few ideas to keep in mind as you put together your kids room so that it ends up being a place both you and your children can appreciate!
Themes and Colors
When choosing colors for your child's room, there are a few things to consider. For starters, resist the desire to go too cute. Choose colors that are fun and lively, but also think about what your child will want their room to look like a few years down the road. If you don't, you'll likely find yourself calling the painter back in to cover up designs that a "big kid" will find too babyish when they get older. Also think about including a fun theme, such as farm or zoo animals. Nothing beats a good barnyard scene or animal safari when it comes to creating a place where your child's imagination can run wild.
Think Multifunctional
Another key to creating ideal kids rooms is to think flexibility. The needs of children change rapidly as they move through different stages in their lives, so the furniture and other accessories you choose for their room should be able to change along with them. Here's a few things to consider:
Purchase a crib that can transform into "big kid" bed. Doing so will save you the trouble (and cost) of having to upgrade to a bigger bed as your child grows older.
Buy a changing table that can be used a dresser for storing clothes later on.
Look into multipurpose kids furniture, such as box chairs that can also serve as tables for coloring and tea parties when they are turned on their side. You'll be thankful for these space-saving designs as your kid's room begins to overflow with toys and other gifts from grandparents and friends.
Don't forget you'll be spending significant time in your child's room as well. Make space for a comfortable lounge chair or rocker for reading stories to your children, and for those inevitable late nights spent rocking or singing your little night owl back to sleep.
When the Tornado Hits . . .
While creating a fun space that fosters creativity and learning should be at the top of your list when designing a room for your child, keep in mind that most kids' rooms exist in a perpetual state of disorder. The best defense against the mess your child creates is good organization. Have quality shelving installed in closets and along walls for storing toys, books, and clothes. Shop for wall hangings and hammocks that double as homes for stuffed animals and dolls. And don't forget a toy box or other toy organizer that is easy for your child to open and close. By providing an easy to get to place for your child's toys and art supplies, you can encourage them to take an active role in keeping their living space neat and clean. For even more ideas, get in touch with an interior designer or organizing consultant to help you create a space that both you and your child will enjoy. 
Matt Goering, formerly a carpenter and house painter, is a freelance writer for the home improvement industry who has published over 600 articles.
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