Designing a child’s room is one of the most exciting projects for any Aussie parent. More than just a place to sleep, it’s a creative hub, a safe haven, and the centre of a young universe. The best kids’ spaces in Australia balance the coastal, relaxed lifestyle with practical, durable design that can handle the sheer energy of a little one.
From choosing low-tox paint for our sensitive environment to clever storage hacks, this listicle will guide you through the seven essential steps to designing a kid’s room that inspires creativity, promotes rest, and—crucially—grows with them from bub to big kid.
1. Safety First, Always: The Australian Standards Check
The most critical step is ensuring the room is a secure environment. In Australia, this means a focus on non-toxic materials and stability.
Prioritise Low-VOC Finishes:
Look for low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) or zero-VOC paint brands like Dulux Wash&Wear, Haymes Paint Expressions, or Taubmans Endure. These water-based formulas significantly reduce harmful fumes, making the air safer for your child to breathe, especially in a new room.
Anchor All Tall Furniture:
Dressers, bookshelves, and chests of drawers must be securely anchored to the wall using anti-tip hardware. This is a non-negotiable safety requirement to prevent serious accidents. Check for furniture with stable bases and consider low-profile options, especially for toddlers.
Window Covering Safety:
Ensure all blinds and curtains have cord-free or tensioned cord systems to eliminate the risk of strangulation—a vital safety standard in every Australian home.
Also Read: How to Decorate Christmas Tree at Home this Winter? – The Aussie Way
2. Design for Growth: The Longevity Factor
Kids grow up fast! To avoid complete room makeovers every few years, design for five to ten years of use, not just the next eighteen months.
The Power of a Neutral Base:
Start with neutral or classic colours on the walls—think soft white, gentle sage green, light grey, or a calming navy blue. These colours offer a timeless backdrop that can be easily updated with accessories.
Invest in “Growing” Furniture: Instead of toddler-specific items, choose pieces that adapt.
- Extendable Beds: A bed that lengthens as your child grows is a brilliant investment.
- Full-Sized Storage: A full-sized chest of drawers or wardrobe will hold clothes from babygrows to school uniforms and won’t need replacing for years.
- Convertible Cribs/Cots: Many Aussie brands offer cots that convert into a toddler bed and then a daybed.
3. Storage that Works: Declutter the Aussie Way
An Australian kid’s room needs to handle beach towels, cricket bats, a mountain of Lego, and the endless stream of school projects. Smart, accessible storage is the key to maintaining sanity.
Embrace the Vertical: Utilise wall space with tall bookshelves or wall-mounted shelving units. Floating shelves for displaying small treasures or books add character without eating into floor space.
Low, Accessible Bins: Younger children need storage they can easily use themselves. Cube storage systems with colourful, labelled tubs (use both words and pictures!) are perfect for sorting toys and teaching independent clean-up habits.
Multi-Functional Furniture: Look for storage benches, ottomans with hidden compartments, or even beds with built-in under-bed drawers. These are lifesavers in smaller Aussie bedrooms, providing excellent hidden storage for bulky items like spare linen or winter blankets.
4. Zones for Play, Sleep, and Study
The best rooms are designed around function. Even in a small space, you can create distinct zones to encourage different activities.
The Cosy Sleep Nook: Place the bed in a quiet corner away from the main door. Use soft, layered bedding, perhaps an Australian-wool underlay for natural breathability, and a sheer canopy or soft lighting to create a calm, designated sleep space.
The Creative/Study Zone: Even pre-schoolers need a designated art space. A simple, height-adjustable desk or table with good task lighting encourages focus, whether for homework or drawing. Keep a caddy of art supplies nearby.
The Open Play Area: Maximise floor space. A great area rug not only defines the play zone but also provides a soft, warm landing for playtime. Choose durable, stain-resistant materials that can handle spills and heavy foot traffic.
5. Bring in the Light and Nature
Our Australian lifestyle is all about bringing the outdoors in. Natural light and organic elements create a calming, grounding atmosphere.
Maximise Natural Light: Keep window dressings light and airy. During the day, let the sunlight flood in. For bedtime, use block-out blinds or curtains for a completely dark, sleep-friendly environment.
Natural Materials: Incorporate timber, rattan, and jute. A timber bed frame, a rattan toy basket, or a jute rug can instantly add warmth and a relaxed, coastal-bohemian aesthetic that is hugely popular in Australian design. Look for Australian-made timber furniture finished with non-toxic oils for a sustainable touch.
6. Personalise with Character and Colour
This is where your child’s personality truly shines and where you can introduce trends without permanent commitment.
Feature Walls and Decals: A feature wall painted in a bold colour or adorned with easy-to-remove wall decals (think Aussie animals, geometric shapes, or a mountain range mural) is a cost-effective way to inject personality. A chalkboard or whiteboard wall is also a fantastic, low-mess way to encourage creative expression.
The Power of Textiles: Use colourful linen, cushions, and throws to introduce vibrant tones like mustard yellow, eucalyptus green, or bold navy. These are easy and affordable to swap out as your child’s favourite colour changes from dinosaur-green to mermaid-blue.
Display Their Work: Install picture ledges or a simple pinboard (use Australian wool felt for a soft touch!) at your child’s height. Displaying their artwork, trophies, or favourite book covers makes the room feel like theirs and creates a constantly evolving gallery.
7. Embrace the ‘Washable’ Standard
Let’s be real—kids are messy. Designing a room that’s easy to clean is less a tip and more a necessity for the busy Australian family.
Choose Washable Paints: As mentioned, opt for a washable, low-sheen or semi-gloss finish. These are designed to handle grubby fingerprints, texta marks, and the inevitable scuff with just a damp cloth.
Durable, Easy-Clean Floors: Hardwood floors, laminated floors, or tiles with a large, washable rug are often more practical than carpet. For the rug, look for options specifically designed to be machine-washed or easily spot-cleaned.
By following these practical, safety-focused, and style-conscious steps, you’ll create a beautiful, functional kids’ room that is perfectly suited to the Australian home and lifestyle, and one your child will love for years to come.
