If you have a really small bedroom in your home for a child, then you may be wondering how to decorate and furnish it to maximise the space, whilst still making it a really fun and unique room for your child.  Most three-bed houses in the UK come with one small room which we usually call the ‘box room’ and in some cases, these rooms can barely fit a single bed in easily, so what is the solution for decorating and furnishing a kids bedroom if the room is really small?

Read on for some amazing space-saving and fun decor ideas.  I have gathered a list of small bedroom ideas for kids that will help you create a space for your child that is not only functional but also stylish and fun.

11 Kids Bedroom Ideas for Small Rooms

As a parent, creating a functional and comfortable bedroom for your child can be a challenge, especially if you're working with a small space. Whether you're living in a city apartment or a smaller house, it can be difficult to make the most of a tiny bedroom while still providing a space that your child loves. In this article, we'll explore some creative and practical ideas for decorating and furnishing a small kids' bedroom, from choosing the right bed to making the most of storage solutions. With these tips, you can create a space that maximises every inch of your child's bedroom, while still providing a cosy and inviting place for them to play, sleep, and grow.

1. Choose a small single bed

Unfortunately in many box-sized rooms in UK houses, even a standard UK single bed can swamp the room.  There is luckily a solution!  In our small room, which is pretty much a large closet (that’s what the old owners used it for), we have a ‘small single’ sized bed instead.  These are 15cm narrower than a standard single and that extra 15cm of space in the room can make a huge difference.  It makes the bed feel a part of the room rather than overtaking it.  For a child, a small single size bed is absolutely fine.  My nine-year-old daughter, until recent times, slept on this small single bed in our old home and it was perfect.  

When faced with the challenge of furnishing a small bedroom for your children, choosing special beds for kids can help maximise their limited space. Single beds are another ideal option if space allows, as they typically measure around 90cm in width, leaving more room for other furniture and accessories. Not only do smaller beds allow for a more organised setup, but many of them also come in playful designs and colours that delight youngsters. With an economy single bed, you can provide your child with something functional that still exudes style and personality.

Another option is to have a custom bed made for a small room, particularly if the layout is awkward, but you may then struggle to find the right size mattress!  There are many retailers online that sell small single mattresses and small single sheets.  You can still use a single duvet and regular sized pillow with fun kids prints to create the perfect bed in a small space.

2. Opt for under bed storage

Choose a bed frame such as an affordable divan with built-in storage as an amazing space-saving solution.  Divan bedframes can often have two drawers on one side or one drawer at the end, which is built into the frame so blends in seamlessly with the bed.  This type of bed frame is also great for preventing toys from getting lost under the bed or dust building up in an unused space in a kids room!  

If your kid’s bed frame doesn’t have built-in storage then you can buy under bed drawers on their own.  These are a great place to store your kid’s toys and to keep their bedroom tidy and clutter-free.

You can even choose a mid-sleeper or high-sleeper which will help to free up all the space under the bed which can then be used for play or clothes storage!

Underbed storage drawer - Etsy

3. Add a fun rug

Floor space may be limited when it comes to a small kid’s bedroom, but you can still make it fun with a colourful kid-themed rug.  Think a bold blue with a star print for an infant, or a colourful tie-dye pattern for a tweenager/pre-teen.  Even if you have a small space, there are lots of fun features for kids rooms like bold and colourful rugs that can bring joy into the room.

Adding a rug can also protect your family home flooring from spills, accidents and crayons in your kids bedroom!

Open wardrobe - Etsy

4. Go minimal or kid-sized with the wardrobe

Depending on the shape of the room, there are lots of alternative options nowadays when it comes to wardrobes that don’t take up lots of space.  The traditional two door wardrobe may overshadow a small box sized room, leaving little room for anything else.  Instead, you could opt for a child’s sized wardrobe which is much lower than a regular wardrobe, giving you space above the wardrobe to store books and toys.  It also means your child will be able to reach their hanging clothes with ease!  

Another option is a ‘single’ wardrobe or a ‘skinny’ wardrobe which are literally one doored wardrobes and very slim.  These can slot nicely into a corner of a small bedroom taking up a lot less space than a regular-sized wardrobe and will prevent you from becoming overloaded with kids clothes as you’ll be limited in the amount you can buy and store!  Try creating a kids capsule wardrobe - great if you want to stay uncluttered!

You could even skip the wardrobe altogether and opt for a chest of drawers to store clothes as these don’t need to be very tall at all, making the room feel more spacious.  Choose a wide set of drawers that is low down to give some play space on top of the drawers.  Kids love a platform to play with their small world toys and LEGO. 

5. Beautify the walls and use them for storage

Whilst you might not have much floor space in your child’s bedroom to adorn with wonderful things, you can still make the most of the wall space to create a colourful and inspiring space.  In a small room, you should ideally keep the wall colour scheme light to prevent the room from feeling any smaller than it already is, but you could still create a light coloured feature wall using patterned wallpaper or a wall mural.  The idea is not to use anything too patterned or overbearing as it could intimidate the space.  

Plain walls can be brightened up with some fun wall stickers for kids such as characters they love, height charts or even their name by ordering one of these amazing personalised wall stickers to go above their headboard or alongside their bed.

Wide, but skinny, shelves can create a place for them to showcase their most precious trinkets.

There are many options for ‘spice rack’ style bookshelves that will not protrude much into the room and give a unique way of storing books with covers facing forwards.

Fun kids wall hanging for storage - Etsy

6. Be creative with hanging

Hooks on the back of the door can create space to hang bags, Trunki toddlepaks, dressing gowns, hats, coats, hoodies and towels, etc, but you could even add hooks on the wall, or an extra set lower down on the back of the door, for kids dress-up clothes to be hung.

Want to add plants in your kid’s bedroom to help purify the air and bring nature indoors?  Hanging plants are great in small spaces as they don’t need to take up any floor or surface space. 

There are even hanging storage solutions that can be used for kids toys to save space on the floor.

Some more creative hanging solutions include:

• Install a pegboard: A pegboard is a great way to create additional storage space on the wall. You can use hooks and shelves on the pegboard to hang and display your child's toys, books, stationery, craft materials and accessories like kids headphones. This can be a fun and practical way to keep their bedroom organised and clutter-free.
• Use a hanging shoe organiser: A hanging shoe organiser can be repurposed as a storage solution for toys, art supplies, or even clothes. Hang it on the back of the door or on the wall for a space-saving solution that keeps everything within easy reach.
• Consider a wall-mounted desk: If your child needs a workspace in their bedroom, consider a wall-mounted desk. This can be a great way to free up floor space and create a designated area for homework or creative projects.
• Use floating shelves: Floating shelves can be a stylish and practical way to create additional storage space on the wall. Use them to display books, toys, or decorative items, and mix and match sizes and colours to create a unique look.
• Hang a hammock chair: A hammock chair can be a fun and cosy addition to a small bedroom. Hang it from the ceiling or a wall-mounted hook for a relaxing spot to read, play, or relax.  Hang over the end of the bed in a corner of a small room.

By using hooks and hanging storage solutions, adding plants to purify the air, and exploring unique furniture options like a wall-mounted desk or hammock chair, you can maximise the space in a small kids' bedroom and create a functional and stylish space that your child will love.

Toy hammock - Etsy

7. Use multi-functional furniture

In a small kids' bedroom, it's important to maximise the space by using furniture that serves more than one purpose. For example, a storage ottoman can be used for seating as well as for storing toys or clothes. A bed with built-in drawers can provide extra storage space, while a bookcase with built-in seating can provide a cosy reading nook.

Here are some additional suggestions:

• A desk with built-in storage: Instead of a traditional desk, consider a desk with built-in storage. This could include drawers, shelves, or even a built-in corkboard for pinning up notes and artwork. A desk with storage can provide a designated area for your child to study or do homework, while also maximising storage space in the room.
• A storage bench: A storage bench can be a great addition to a small kids' bedroom, providing both seating and storage space. You could use a storage bench to store toys, books, or clothes, while also providing a cosy spot for your child to read or relax.
• A convertible sofa: If your child likes to have friends over for sleepovers, a convertible sofa can be a great option for a small bedroom. During the day, it can be used as a comfortable seating area, while at night it can be converted into a bed for guests.
• A wall-mounted folding table: If space is really tight in your child's bedroom, consider a wall-mounted folding table. This can provide a designated area for your child to do homework or play games, without taking up valuable floor space.
• A hanging organiser: A hanging organiser can be a great way to keep toys, books, or clothes off the floor and out of the way. You could use a hanging organiser with multiple pockets to store small items, or a hanging shelf to store larger items like books or toys.

By using multi-functional furniture, you can maximise every inch of space in your child's bedroom, while also creating a functional and comfortable space for them to play, sleep, and grow.

Multifunctional desk that turns into bench - Etsy

8. Create a loft bed

Loft beds can be an excellent choice for small bedrooms as they provide a practical solution to the problem of limited space. By elevating the sleeping area, you can free up valuable floor space that can be used for other activities. Loft beds are also an excellent way to create a cosy sleeping area that feels like a private sanctuary for your child.

One of the great things about loft beds is that they offer the opportunity to create additional space underneath. Depending on your child's needs, you could use this space to create a play area, study nook, or storage space. For younger children, a play area underneath the loft bed can be a great option, providing them with a designated space to let their imaginations run wild. This could include a small tent, a reading nook, or even a small play kitchen.

For older children or teenagers, a loft bed with a study nook underneath can provide a quiet and private space for homework or studying. This can be especially important for teenagers who need more privacy and independence as they get older. A loft bed with a study nook can also help to create a designated space for your child's schoolwork, which can help to improve their focus and productivity.

Finally, loft beds can also be an excellent way to maximise storage space in a small bedroom. You could use the area underneath the bed for storage boxes, drawers, or even a built-in wardrobe. By using the space efficiently, you can keep the room organised and clutter-free, which can help to create a calm and relaxing environment for your child.

Cube loft bed - Etsy

9. Use colour to create the illusion of space

Light colours and neutrals can make a small room feel larger and brighter. You could use light-coloured bedding, curtains, and rugs to create a cohesive look. Adding a pop of colour with cushions or wall art can also brighten up the space.

Expanding on the idea of using colour to create the illusion of space, there are many ways to make a small kids' bedroom feel larger and brighter. Here are some suggestions:

• Use a light-coloured paint: Painting the walls of a small bedroom in light colours can help to create the illusion of space. Neutral shades like white, beige, and light grey are all great options. You could also consider a light pastel shade, such as pale pink or blue, for a calming and soothing effect.
• Choose light-coloured bedding: Choosing light-coloured bedding can help to create a cohesive look in a small bedroom. Consider using white or cream-coloured sheets, and adding a lightweight duvet or quilt in a neutral shade. You could also add a pop of colour with decorative pillows or a throw blanket.  Etsy is a great place to find home decor that is unique, handmade and even custom made.
• Use mirrors to reflect light: Mirrors can be a great way to reflect light and make a small bedroom feel brighter and more spacious. Consider adding a large customized mirror to one of the walls, or hanging a few smaller mirrors in a group to create a statement wall.
• Add pops of colour with accessories: While it's important to keep the overall colour scheme of a small bedroom light and neutral, you can still add pops of colour with accessories. Consider adding colourful cushions, a bright rug, a fun wall clock or a statement piece of wall art. Just be careful not to overdo it - keep the home decor simple as too much colour can make a small room feel cluttered and overwhelming.
• Use natural light: If possible, try to maximise natural light in a small kids' bedroom. Avoid using heavy curtains or blinds that block out light, and instead opt for sheer curtains or blinds that let light in. You could also consider adding a small table or floor lamp to provide additional light in the room.

By using light colours and neutrals, adding pops of colour with home accessories, and maximising natural light, you can create a small kids' bedroom that feels bright, spacious, and welcoming. With a little creativity and attention to detail, you can transform a tiny room into a functional and stylish space that your child will love.

Cloud mirror with raindrops - Etsy

10. Involve your child in the process

Lastly, involve your child in the decorating process to ensure that their bedroom is a space that they love and feel comfortable in. Ask them for their input on colours, bedding, and decor to make their bedroom truly unique and special. You could even create a mood board together to help inspire your design choices.

Here are some ways you can involve your child:

• Ask for their input on furniture: While you may need to make practical decisions about the furniture in your child's bedroom, you can still involve them in the process. Ask them for their input on the style and colour of their bed, desk, or wardrobe, for example. This can help to ensure that they feel invested in their bedroom and are excited about the finished product.
• Create a theme together: If your child has a favourite colour or interest, consider creating a theme for their bedroom around it. This could include a specific colour scheme, or a theme like outer space, dinosaurs, or unicorns. By involving your child in the process of choosing a theme, you can create a bedroom that reflects their personality and interests.
• Get creative with DIY projects: If you're looking for a fun activity to do with your child, consider taking on a DIY project for their bedroom. This could include painting a mural on the wall, creating a gallery wall of their artwork, or even building a custom piece of furniture together. Not only will this be a fun bonding activity, but it can also help to create a bedroom that is truly unique and special.
• Make it a team effort: Decorating a bedroom can be a big project, but it doesn't have to be stressful. Make it a team effort by involving your child in the process from start to finish. This could include shopping for furniture together, picking out bedding and decor, and even cleaning and organising the room once it's finished. By involving your child in every step of the process, you can create a bedroom that they truly love and feel proud of.

Involving your child in the decorating process can be a fun and rewarding experience for both of you. By asking for their input, creating a theme together, getting creative with DIY projects, and making it a team effort, you can create a bedroom that is truly unique and special. 

Space-saving bookshelf - Etsy

11. Make a small bedroom fun with a theme

Small kids’ rooms give you a chance to be creative and inventive! Themes can transform a small space into an entirely different world, sparking your child’s imagination and making their bedroom a place they love to be. A theme can visually expand a small room by transporting your child to a world beyond the walls.

Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Car Crazy: Put your child right in the driver's seat with a car bed! There are many Children’s Car Beds available, from sleek race cars to classic fire trucks. Pair it with a car-themed wardrobe that resembles a garage or a gas station. Don't forget the checkered flag rug with a winding race track design that doubles as a giant playmat for their miniature car collection.
• Jungle Adventure: Create a lush jungle atmosphere with leafy green walls, animal print rugs, and hanging vines with stuffed monkeys or parrots.
• Under the Sea: Paint the walls a calming blue and decorate with fish, seashells, and a treasure chest filled with toys.
• Outer Space: Glow-in-the-dark stars on the ceiling, planets and rockets on the walls, and a beanbag chair shaped like a spaceship – who wouldn't want to blast off to dreamland in this room?
• Fairytale Castle: Transform a small bed into a princess carriage or a knight's bedchamber. Hang tapestries or fabric draped over the ceiling to create a magical canopy.
• Sports Stadium: Paint stripes on the walls to resemble a football pitch or basketball court. Add beanbags for seating and decorate with their favourite team’s colours.

Remember: When choosing a theme, keep your child's age and interests in mind. You can also create custom themes based on their favourite books, movies, or hobbies. By incorporating a theme that utilises storage solutions like car-shaped wardrobes and playful elements like race track rugs, you can maximise a small space and create a world of wonder for your child.

Small kids rooms give you a chance to be creative and inventive!

I hope these ideas for designing your kids bedroom when you have a small scale home and room to work with are helpful. There are many ways to make a space feel larger and to modernise a home, but there are also ways to utilise the space more efficiently whilst still creating a fun kids bedroom. 

Decorating a small kids' bedroom can be a challenge, but with some creative ideas, you can make the most of every inch of space while still providing a fun and functional room for your child. From choosing the right bed to maximising storage solutions, there are many ways to create a cosy and inviting space that your child will love. Whether you opt for multi-functional furniture, wall-mounted shelves, or colourful rugs, there are many ways to transform a small bedroom into a space that your child can grow and thrive in.

To summarise, here are the 10 ideas for decorating a small kids' bedroom:

1. Choose a small single bed.
2. Opt for under bed storage.
3. Add a fun rug.
4. Go minimal or kid-sized with the wardrobe.
5. Beautify the walls and use them for storage.
6. Be creative with hanging.
7. Use multi-functional furniture.
8. Create a loft bed.
9. Use colour to create the illusion of space.
10. Involve your child in the process.
11. Make a small bedroom fun with a theme.

By incorporating these ideas, you can create a unique and functional space that your child will love spending time in. So, whether you're dealing with a tiny box room in a small house or a compact city apartment, these tips will help you make the most of every inch of space and create a bedroom that your child will love.

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