Not all children are lucky enough to have a large spacious bedroom. Generally, the smallest room in the house belongs to the smallest family member. With a little creative thinking this room can become as functional as its owner’s needs.

Safety
The most important consideration when designing a child’s room is safety. Window locks, sharp edges, mirrors, lighting cables, etc need just a little more thought.

Lighting
Daylight is the best light source and it’s a good idea to make the most of it in children’s areas. Keep window dressings to a minimum, choosing fresh colours and plenty of white. All artificial lighting should be ceiling and wall mounted to avoid using valuable floor space. A reading light is a must by a child’s bed, but table lamps take up space. The use of wall-mounted lights will free up floor space, losing the need for a bedside table with a light on it, and making it possible to squeeze a bed into a very narrow spot.

Add a mirror
The use of a mirror to increase the sense of space and light is a common trick, working equally well in a child’s room. For safety reasons, make sure the mirror is securely attached to the wall so it can’t fall off, and choose a mirror with rounded edges to avoid bumps.

Wall covering
To draw the eye away from the limited floor space, hang dramatic wallpaper, a painted mural or a large-scale piece, such as a poster-size photograph on one wall. Why not treat your child to a large poster or canvas of their favourite character? Blackboard paint is a further option, turning the whole wall into a useful blackboard, which can help to encourage creativity. Keep furniture plain and neutral to avoid the room becoming too busy.

Bed
Raising the child’s bed off the ground immediately provides a chunk of floor that can be used for play. There are lots of raised beds available to buy, with valuable storage, play or desk space incorporated. Storage designed specifically for the space will make use of every nook and cranny and allow you to tailor it to your child’s needs.

Hang it
Stand back and take a look at the room. If any wall space is bare, use it. Squeeze in a shelf for the endless collection of books and knick knacks. Hang a simple rail to suspend small containers – a potential home for colouring pens and pencils or whatever the young person chooses. Hooks mounted anywhere in a child’s room, including on the back of the door will instantly become storage for clothes, toys and the many bits and pieces accumulated over time.