Big Boy Room with (subtle) Striped Sophistication

It is imaginable to provide children's space that accommodates their needs without sacrificing the aesthetic and not obsessing on age-specific decor.  A children's room should feel fun, but with a dash of maturity, while also being comfortable and a room to grow up in.

In order to strike this balance, there are certain selections which contribute to the success of this formula.  First and foremost, materials and furniture selections should be resilient to kids' wear and tear which is what drove the selection of the bed, side table, rug and dresser.  The bed is from Room and Board and can be easily transitioned into a bunk bed or additional storage below, which is another trick in selecting items that can grow from toddler to big boy.  The rug is from Restoration Hardware and I recommend selecting the thicker rug pad to add some coziness to a room with a hardwood floor.  The side table is from CB2 and it was important to make sure it had an open shelf that serves as a bookshelf, as well.  The coveted teepee was designed by Theteepeeguy on Etsy.  

Also, rather than just selecting a single color for the wall paint, creating a subtle texture by alternating between a high gloss and matte paint of the same color.  The 8" horizontal banding surrounds the room, but doesn't overwhelm the space while still providing a simple backdrop. 

The side table lamp is from Blue Dot, which has an unique red chord that gives this modern lamp a playful side, too.  Bedding is from Restoration Hardware and the pillows came from Jonathan Adler, Serena and Lily, West Elm and a beloved pattern from Maharam.

The You are my Sunshine piece was done by the talented KA-Art.  She worked with me to customize the size, the lettering, frame and finish.  I can't wait to commission her to do another piece!  The dresser is from Room and Board and the color and material can be customized to whatever you want, which gives another opportunity to showcase something that is 'off the shelf', but doesn't feel it.  

This Land of Nod pouf is the perfect additional seating for reading a book or climbing up and down from bed and easily moveable.

I believe children's rooms can balance between play and sophistication by making careful selections that evolve as your child does, getting more for your money by lasting longer.

Photography by Muffy Kibbey