Decorating a Shared Kids’ Bedroom
How to create a harmonized, no-fuss living arrangement for kids of two ages.
Before you move the kiddos into the same room, take into consideration what will make them happy when living together. From creating their own personal space to bringing harmony with a common area, we highlight the essential steps to decorating a room for kids of two different ages that doesn't lack personality.
Establish a Theme
Whether they are mini sailors or trendsetters gravitating toward stylish patterns, having a theme in a shared space with unify the two sides. Go all out with matching bedding and furnishings, or make subtle connections with similar color and motifs.
In this nautical room, large shaker-style furnishings create a simple foundation for the coastal decor and navy blues to take center stage. A cute vignette on the nightstand adds charm, while a string of sailing flags leads the eye from one end of the room to the other.
Choosing one theme for two kids isn’t always easy, especially when they have different styles. Maybe one loves ballet while the other is more edgy. The first step to fixing this problem is choosing a color palette that they both agree on. Then, add playful patterns—which are easier to agree on than motifs—like chevron, polka dots, stripes, ikat, and florals.
Create a Subtle Divide
Designing individual spaces for each kids is an understandable dilemma. Keep in mind that drastically cutting the room in half disrupts the flow of movement. Instead, make a subtle split between the two spaces to fool the eye into seeing two halves. Strategically place an area rug, anchor a dresser against a wall with a bed on either side, or hang a chandelier in the middle of the space to distinguish different sides without a dramatic divide. Making a suggested split gives each child a mini room without completely separating the two of them.
If space is tight, create individual spaces with bunk beds. Not only will it free up valuable floor room, but bedtime just became a whole lot easier: Bunk beds give a vertical separation that makes reading lights less disruptive and limits late-night chatting.
Designate a Common Area
Bring the kids together in a space where they can work or play cohesively. From a craft station to a fun teepee, a communal area gives them a place to spend time together. This also helps to establish which areas of the room are for sharing, and which are not. One of the biggest issues with shared rooms is finding personal space, and distinguishing a shared area makes each personal spot
more sacred.
Personalize Each Space
Once the theme is established and harmonizing the space, it is time to personalize each corner! Kids want to feel like this area is theirs. Allow them to take ownership by adding monogrammed letters and photographs. Use baskets or bins as special cubbies at the end of their beds to store toys and favorite games—which also makes cleanup time easier.
Customize each wall with fun wallpaper. Big, polka dots juxtaposed with bold horizontal stripes not only subtly divides the space, but also emphasizes each personality. Let them pick their favorite pattern or decal as a creative way of owning their side of the room.
