Guest Picks: Little Kid, Big Style
Create flow throughout a home with kids' room décor you love too
In designing my daughters' combined nursery and "big girl" room, I sought out products that carried my own aesthetic in the rest of the house into their space as well, creating a magical sanctuary of serenity and sweetness. Granted, they're not yet old enough to have decorating opinions of their own, so I was able to work with a virtually blank canvas without railroading their unique styles.
Here are a few of the products that bridged the gap for me. I love that I'd be happy to feature most of these products in my own room as well, yet they still maintain a healthy dose of kid-friendly imagery and emotion. — Kelly from The Kitchen Designer
Here are a few of the products that bridged the gap for me. I love that I'd be happy to feature most of these products in my own room as well, yet they still maintain a healthy dose of kid-friendly imagery and emotion. — Kelly from The Kitchen Designer
Annabel Duvet
I've long admired this Annabel duvet from Serena and Lily. The rich colors and intricate bird motif feel festive and inviting. The piping adds a clean, custom touch.
Swallows
These fabric decals are so delicate and sweet. The pastel shades and floral pattern of the birds make for a charming decoration. I placed them on the slanted cape ceilings where I couldn't hang anything traditionally, and now they fly over my daughter's bed and accompany her to dreamland.
The Village Cushion 3
I can't get enough of these village pillows from a favorite shop, Ferm Living. I couldn't resist picking up all four, and I am so drawn to the simple design and beautiful colors. I can just imagine my daughter creating her own imaginary world around them.
Pirum Parum
Mrs. Pear couldn't be sweeter. Despite her melancholy expression, there's something charming and cheerful about her. She makes me want to reach out and hug her and somehow evokes a simpler time.
Sausalito Moses Basket Flax/Shell Trellis Sheet
I received this as a gift for the birth of my second daughter — it's a long-coveted treasure. While I only use it intermittently for its intended purpose (a resting place for baby), I adore it for beautiful storage of blankets and other sundries. I plan to use it elsewhere in the house when it's no longer in residence of baby. The craftsmanship is impeccable; the design is classic.
NYC Paper Cut Map Print
These prints of hand-cut city maps from Famille Summerbelle are equally at home in any room of the house. The colors are vibrant and the details are incredible. Pick up one for your home city or the city of your dreams, and marvel at the magnificent nuance and surprise.
Contemporary Kids Rugs
I'm a huge fan of these Swedish, handwoven rugs in nurseries, and I'm not alone. They're popping up all over blogland, perhaps due to their bright colors, easy-breezy feel and rugged nature.
Aristo Katt Picture
This darling cat print on wood really pops against a neutral wall. Just a passing glance at him is sure to make both you and your child smile. What could be happier than a cat in a top hat?
Alphabet Poster
I was incessantly on the hunt for a sophisticated and original alphabet print. A lover of Danish design, I had to snag this print by Binth, in which each letter of the alphabet is represented by a different midcentury Scandinavian toy. The colors may appear on the masculine side, but it looks right at home in my daughter's feminine nursery.
Spring Garland & Beyond Measure Tiding, Cursive
I've included Shanna Murray's decals in my ideabooks before, but I just cannot help my love for them. Their hand-drawn quality is so innocent and charming, and they look fabulous all over the home. I found this one especially apropos for a child's room.
Coco-Inspired Rag Doll
These Jess Brown dolls are truly special. Though they cost a small fortune, I'd love to have one delicately perched upon a shelf to admire always. The detail in the clothing and the craftsmanship are remarkable.
Kids With Animal Masks by Kiki & Polly
These sweet characters make for quite a clever grouping. The pastel colors with a few rich pops of bolder shades translate beautifully into a child's room and beyond.
Birdies Clock, Large
I love these Decoylab clocks for kids' rooms. I purchased a cute animal shape for my daughter, then I chose this whimsical version with the white acrylic overlay as the second in my collection.
STOKKE SLEEPI Crib-Bed
Coming from a small Manhattan apartment, I appreciated the small size and mobility of this Stokke crib. When baby outgrows the crib and toddler bed extension, it converts to a full-size desk. It's stylish and functional to boot.
Sweet Face Doll
You just can't beat handmade dolls and toys in the sweetness category. Their imperfections and handcrafted feel make for an instant heirloom and an item that is sure to be treasured long after your child outgrows her Barbies.
Mask Messenger Bag
This Brooklyn-based kids store has the cutest, most interesting designs, and this bag is no exception. They often pair rugged materials and neutral, muted shades with striking embellishments for a dynamite combination. I know I'd often be "borrowing" this from my daughter.
Love Candy, Metallic Gold
This print is simple, fundamental and to the point. What could be better? Pick your shade wisely, as this LOVE Print by blogger Jen Ramos is sure to be a lasting piece in your home.
Caravan Dresser, Red
This dresser stopped me in my tracks. It's made from sustainable, FSC-certified wood, and it's available in multiple colors. I love the midcentury-reminiscent design, pale wood and splash of color. It is so stylish and unique.
Vase, Green/Dark, Blue/Purple
Don't be shy about bringing in ceramics and glassware to a child's room, so long as they're placed out of reach. I love to bring a few fresh flowers or sprigs of pine and holly into my daughters' room, and this saturated, color-block vase is the perfect vessel.
Letter Cushion, Bonne Nuit, foil
This pillow is another gem from Atsuyo Et Akiko — it has such a fitting message. I'll admit it: I'm a sucker for anything metallic, but the indigo and gold pairing is so fresh and "now."
Next: 10 tips for creating beautiful and functional children's spaces
Next: 10 tips for creating beautiful and functional children's spaces