How to design a shared bedroom for children.

Don’t have space for separate bedrooms so need your children to double up? Sharing a bedroom doesn’t have to mean lots of compromises. Award-winning interior designer and e-designer Amanda Foster of Foster Decor shares her top tips for designing a shared bedroom for your kids that allows them to still have a space of their own.

Nail the layout.

First things first, let's talk layout. When you're working with a shared space for your children,, it's all about creating zones that give each kid their little kingdom. Here are some solutions:

• Go vertical with bunk beds or loft beds. It's like giving your kids their own treehouse, minus the splinters!
• Use room dividers that double as storage. Think bookcases, curtains, or even a funky macramé hanging. It's like giving each kid their own secret lair.
• Create individual nooks with different wallpapers or paint colors. It's like having multiple rooms in one, without the hefty price tag of an addition.

Look for clever furniture hacks.

When it comes to furniture, here are some ideas to maximize space and minimize sibling squabbles:

• Opt for beds with built-in storage. It's like giving your kids a treasure chest for all their goodies.
• Choose desks that can be tucked away or folded up. It's homework central by day, party central by night!
• Use ottomans or benches with hidden storage. Perfect for quick clean-ups when unexpected guests arrive (we've all been there).

Get the colour scheme right.

Colors can make or break a shared space. Here's how to keep the peace while still letting personalities shine:

• Start with a neutral base and let each kid choose an accent color. It's like a color-coded map of who owns what.
• Use removable wallpaper or decals for easy updates as tastes change. Because let's face it, today's superhero fan might be tomorrow's rock star.
• Don't be afraid to mix and match! Complementary colors can create a cohesive look without being matchy-matchy.
• Focus on interests rather than gender stereotypes. A space theme works for everyone, trust me.

• Use gender-neutral colors like yellow, green, or gray as a base. Then let each kid add their own flair with accessories.

How to design shared bedrooms for wider age gaps.

Designing for different age groups can be tricky, but not impossible. Here's how to make it work:

• Create flexible spaces that can grow with your kids. Today's play area can be tomorrow's study nook.
• Use adjustable furniture like extendable beds or height-adjustable desks. It's like furniture that grows with your kids (minus the growing pains).
• Incorporate storage solutions for both big kid and little kid stuff. Because Legos and makeup don't always play nice together.

Light It Up: Illuminating Ideas

Good lighting is crucial in a shared space. Here's how to brighten things up:

• Give each kid their own reading light. It's like having a spotlight for their late-night comic book sessions.
• Use dimmable lights for different moods and activities. From homework time to dance party time, you've got it covered.
• Don't forget about natural light! Arrange furniture to maximize window access for both kids.

Future-Proof Your Design: Growing Pains, Be Gone!

Kids grow up fast. Here's how to create a space that'll stand the test of time:

• Choose timeless furniture pieces that can transition from kid to teen rooms. That race car bed might not be so cool in a few years.
• Incorporate easily changeable elements like bedding, artwork, and accessories. It's like giving your room a facelift without the surgery.
• Create a flexible layout that can be rearranged as needs change. Today's shared bedroom might be tomorrow's teen hangout.

Remember, designing a shared kids' bedroom is all about creativity, compromise, and a little bit of chaos. Embrace the challenge, have fun with it, and don't be afraid to break a few design rules along the way. After all, that's what us rebel designers do best!

About the author

 Amanda Foster is an award-winning accredited international e-Designer and interior designer, who specialises in creating bold, vibrant, and colourful spaces. Known for thinking outside the box and with edgy designs, Amanda works with homeowners to create a space to truly reflect their personalities, as well as mentoring fellow interior designers to help them grow their business and make it profitable. For more information on Amanda, visit: https://www.fosterdecorconsulting.com/