Designing Kids' Rooms: A Designer's Guide to Avoiding Common Mistakes

May 19, 2026 - 02:53

Lauren Behfarin, a professional interior designer specializing in children's spaces, has seen plenty of well-intentioned parents make the same errors when decorating their kids' bedrooms. Her advice focuses on creating rooms that actually work for children, not just look good in photos.

The biggest mistake, according to Behfarin, is designing a room that is too theme-heavy. Parents often go all-in on a favorite cartoon character or hobby, only to find their child outgrows it within a year or two. She recommends using neutral furniture as a base and adding personality through easily changeable items like bedding, art, and accessories. This approach saves money and reduces the need for frequent redesigns.

Another common error is prioritizing adult aesthetics over child functionality. A room might look beautiful with a low-profile bed and delicate decor, but children need durable surfaces, easy access to their belongings, and safe play areas. Behfarin suggests including low shelving for toys and books, washable rugs, and sturdy furniture that can withstand daily use.

Storage is often overlooked or poorly planned. Parents buy cute baskets and bins without considering how a child actually uses the space. Behfarin advises creating zones for different activities: a reading nook, a play area, and a sleep zone. Each zone should have its own storage solution that matches the activity. For example, open bins work well for toys, while a small bookshelf with forward-facing covers encourages reading.

Lighting also matters more than most parents realize. A single overhead light is rarely enough. Behfarin recommends layered lighting: a dimmable ceiling fixture, a bedside lamp for reading, and perhaps a nightlight for comfort. Blackout curtains are another practical addition, especially for younger children who need consistent sleep schedules.

Finally, she warns against making the room too perfect. Kids need space to be messy, to create, and to grow. A room that feels like a museum display can make children anxious about making mistakes. Instead, Behfarin encourages parents to leave room for the child's own input, whether that means letting them choose a paint color or display their artwork proudly. The goal is a room that feels like theirs, not just a showcase of adult taste.