Child's room a place for imagination and fun

Designing for children is one of the most enjoyable parts of my job.

Kids intuitively understand the idiosyncratic nature of design and are quick to add their input if given the chance. They live in a place where imagination and reality blur seamlessly between one another and having them involved in the design of their world brings out the most for everyone.

When designing a space for kids it's important to remember that you're not creating a space of serenity more appropriate for an adult but rather a dynamic place of imagination and fun suitable for a child.

Don't be afraid to use colour -- your kids will approve of nothing else -- but try to maintain some boundaries when you do so. A colour scheme can be wild and vibrant but keep a method to the madness by adhering to a concept or theme.

Kids will always have ideas for a theme and won't be lacking in ideas on how to realize it but it's the adult's job to rationalize their dream into a reality. My instinct tells me to move away from branding as much as possible while still capturing the essence of what your child desires. A Harry Potter-themed room for example might best steer clear of the obvious commercial references while still evoking a sense of the fantasy world J.K. Rowling has so brilliantly created.

A kid's place is exactly that and should be scaled accordingly. I'm always amazed how the smallest of spaces can become wonderfully functioning spaces for a wee one. A space too small for us and just right for them will invariably become a special place for your child.

Bunk beds capture this concept well and are always a huge favourite for kids. They provide a perfect get-away space for a child while providing a great space-saving solution as well. On several occasions I've stacked a bed above a small play alcove allowing for a dynamic, above-ground sleeping area while freeing up space below for fun.

On a more pragmatic level, making your kid's room as green as possible is the best thing you can do for your child. Use only low VOC (volatile organic compound) paints and try to use as much solid wood as possible while eschewing off-gasing materials such as fibreboard and plywood. Carpets have a nasty capacity to trap dust, animal dander and mold spores and, when new, off-gas chemicals as well. A wood floor is always a healthier choice. Replacing vinyl window blinds with cotton or linen window coverings is an easy, eco-friendly decision as well.

Designing for kids is great fun and brings out child-like creativity in all of us. If you're thinking about transforming your child's space, make sure to talk to them first and remember it's their world. Scale it for them and let it become a place for invention and play.