Living in the UAE is not a permanent thing for many residents, but it is important for your kids to feel settled and happy. A child’s room is a playground and safe haven for them, but putting your own stamp on it doesn’t have to cost a fortune and you certainly don’t have to scrimp on style. So whether you own or rent your home, with a little money and a lot of creativity you can transform your child’s room and make it their own.
Depending on the age of your child, you may want to let them help you decorate. Get them involved with selecting colours or wallpaper. A feature wall is a great way to inject some colour into a room while still playing it safe. You could simply paint the walls a neutral colour and then let your child paint a mural of their choice on it. You can do this once a year and continue to reinvent the room. Alternatively, wall art stickers will brighten up any room and can be peeled off and reapplied when your child has outgrown his pirate theme and wants to move onto football for example.
We are blessed here with numerous shopping options and there is a world of choice for kids’ furniture. However, make sure that any new furniture is good quality and safe, allows them to move comfortably and does not take up too much space. It is important not to overload the room with too many pieces.
When buying a bed, think of safety and comfort first. The bed should be strong and durable and preferably with lots of space for your kids to stretch out and be comfortable. You may want to opt for a bed with casters that can be rolled out and raised to hold another twin mattress. This is perfect for when they have a friend to sleep over. Alternatively, beds that have drawers underneath offer extra storage for all those toys.
If you do not want to give your child a free reign on the decorating, letting your little one choose their own bedding will give them a sense of independence and allow them to express their personality. Add scatter cushions for that extra pop.
Storing all of your child’s belongings can be challenging, especially if the room is small. Big boxes and lots of shelves will encourage your child to keep the room tidy. Make labels for all of the containers with big bright words, that will help remind them what that container is for. A toy box bench is another great storage solution and can also act as a seat. Add a seat cushion that matches the colour of the bedding or walls.
A dressing table or desk is also a must have. You can create a quiet corner in the room that is ideal for an arts and crafts space, homework station or extra storage for books and toys. Make sure the desk has a safe and comfortable chair, book case and lots of storage solutions for pens, pencils and other things.
A large bean bag is another versatile option. Placed on a soft comfortable rug in the corner of the room, it makes a great centre piece for a chill out zone for your child.
Finish the room off with a funky lamp, clock, posters, hanging hooks and rugs among other things.
Happy decorating!