Choose Décor Style? (Top 5 Flops!)
As a flooring contractor with over 20 years in the game, I’ve seen it all, especially when it comes to kids’ rooms. And let me tell you, sometimes the best intentions can lead to some pretty epic décor fails.
We all want our kids to have amazing spaces, but it’s easy to get caught up in trends or forget what truly matters: their well-being and development.
Think about it: a child’s environment is their world. It’s where they play, learn, dream, and grow. The colors, textures, and overall design can seriously impact their mood, spark their creativity, and shape their development.
A well-designed room can be a sanctuary, while a poorly designed one can be a source of stress and overstimulation.
I’ve seen firsthand how a thoughtfully designed room can transform a child’s behavior and outlook.
Conversely, I’ve also witnessed the frustration and discomfort that poorly planned spaces can cause.
In this article, I’m going to share my insights on the top 5 décor flops I’ve seen in kids’ rooms. We’ll dive into what makes these choices problematic and, more importantly, how to avoid them.
Let’s get started!
Section 1: The Overly Themed Room
Okay, let’s talk about themed rooms.
I know, I know, the idea of a princess castle or a superhero lair sounds amazing, right?
I’ve even installed flooring in a few myself!
But here’s the thing: kids grow up fast.
What’s cool at five might be totally lame at ten.
I remember one family who went all-out with a “Cars” themed room for their son.
We’re talking wallpaper, bedding, lamps – the works!
Within a few years, he was into dinosaurs, and that room became a source of embarrassment.
Overly themed rooms can box kids in. They limit their imagination and make it harder for them to express their evolving interests.
Imagine trying to transition a princess room into a teen hangout space.
Not easy, is it?
Instead of going all-in on a specific theme, consider a more versatile design.
Think neutral colors, flexible furniture, and accessories that can be easily swapped out.
For example, a room with light-colored walls and hardwood floors can be transformed with different bedding, rugs, and artwork.
You can introduce themed elements through accessories like throw pillows, posters, or even temporary wall decals.
This way, as your child’s interests change, you can update the room without a complete overhaul.
I’ve found that incorporating natural elements, like plants or wood accents, can create a calming and timeless space that appeals to kids of all ages.
Think about it: nature never goes out of style!
Now, some of you might be thinking, “But my kid really loves princesses/superheroes/unicorns!”
And that’s totally valid.
The key is to find a balance between incorporating their passions and creating a space that can adapt as they grow.
I often suggest creating a focal point that reflects their interests, like a themed gallery wall or a cozy reading nook.
This allows them to express their personality without committing to a full-blown theme.
Remember, the goal is to create a space that fosters creativity and imagination, not one that confines it.
And let’s be honest, those themed rooms can get expensive!
All that specialized furniture and décor adds up quickly.
A more versatile design can save you money in the long run, as you won’t have to replace everything every few years.
So, before you commit to an overly themed room, take a step back and consider the long-term implications.
Will it truly serve your child’s needs as they grow and change?
Or will it become a relic of a fleeting phase?
I always advise clients to think about the bigger picture and create a space that can evolve alongside their child.
It’s an investment in their future, and it’s worth doing right.
Section 2: Ignoring Safety for Aesthetic
Alright, let’s get real about safety.
As a contractor, I’ve seen some truly beautiful rooms that are just downright dangerous for kids.
I’m talking sharp furniture edges, unsecured bookshelves, and toxic materials.
It’s heartbreaking because I know the parents didn’t intentionally create a hazardous environment.
They just got caught up in the aesthetic and forgot about the practicalities of child safety.
According to the CDC, about 9.2 million children visit the emergency room each year for unintentional injuries.
And guess what?
A significant number of those injuries happen at home.
I’ve personally witnessed the aftermath of some of these accidents, and it’s not pretty.
I remember one case where a child fell and hit their head on a sharp corner of a coffee table.
Thankfully, they were okay, but it was a wake-up call for the parents.
They immediately replaced the table with a safer, rounded design.
One of the biggest safety hazards I see is unsecured furniture.
Kids love to climb, and if a bookshelf or dresser isn’t properly anchored to the wall, it can easily tip over and cause serious injury.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) estimates that tip-over incidents injure thousands of children each year.
I always recommend that parents anchor all heavy furniture to the wall, even if it seems stable.
It’s a simple and inexpensive precaution that can prevent a tragedy.
Another common mistake is using toxic paint or finishes.
Kids are notorious for putting things in their mouths, so it’s crucial to choose non-toxic, low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) products.
VOCs are chemicals that can be released into the air and cause respiratory problems, allergies, and other health issues.
I always advise clients to look for paints and finishes that are certified by organizations like Green Seal or GREENGUARD.
These certifications ensure that the products meet strict safety standards.
Small decorative items can also be a choking hazard for young children.
Things like marbles, beads, and small toys should be kept out of reach.
I’ve seen some parents use glass decorations in nurseries, which is a huge no-no.
Glass can shatter and cause serious cuts.
Instead, opt for unbreakable materials like plastic, wood, or fabric.
Window cords are another often-overlooked safety hazard.
Kids can get tangled in the cords and strangle themselves.
The Window Covering Safety Council recommends using cordless window coverings or cord-shortening devices.
I always tell parents to err on the side of caution when it comes to safety.
It’s better to be overprotective than to regret a preventable accident.
Don’t let aesthetics cloud your judgment.
A beautiful room is worthless if it’s not safe for your child.
Walk through the room and identify potential hazards.
Are there any sharp edges?
Are the furniture pieces stable?
Are the cords out of reach?
Make a checklist and address each issue one by one.
And if you’re not sure about something, consult with a professional.
A qualified contractor or interior designer can help you create a safe and stylish space for your child.
Remember, safety should always be the top priority.
It’s not about sacrificing style, it’s about making smart choices that protect your child’s well-being.
Section 3: Choosing Non-Durable Materials
Let’s face it: kids are messy.
They spill things, they draw on things, and they generally put things through the wringer.
That’s why choosing durable materials for their rooms is so important.
I’ve seen countless parents opt for cheaper, less durable options, only to regret it later.
I remember one client who installed light-colored carpet in her son’s playroom.
Within a few months, it was covered in stains and looked years older than it actually was.
She ended up having to replace it, which cost her a lot more than if she had chosen a more durable option in the first place.
When it comes to flooring, I always recommend choosing materials that can withstand heavy traffic and spills.
Hardwood, laminate, and vinyl are all great options.
They’re easy to clean, resistant to stains, and can hold up to a lot of wear and tear.
Carpet can be a good choice for bedrooms, but opt for a low-pile, stain-resistant variety.
Avoid delicate fabrics like silk or linen.
They’re beautiful, but they’re not practical for a child’s room.
Instead, choose durable fabrics like cotton, denim, or microfiber.
These fabrics are easy to clean, resistant to stains, and can withstand a lot of use.
For furniture, look for pieces that are made from solid wood or metal.
Avoid particleboard or MDF, as these materials are not as durable and can easily chip or break.
When choosing paint, opt for a washable, scrubbable finish.
This will make it easier to clean up messes without damaging the paint.
I always recommend using a semi-gloss or gloss finish in high-traffic areas like hallways and playrooms.
These finishes are more durable and easier to clean than matte finishes.
I know it can be tempting to save money by choosing cheaper materials, but in the long run, it will cost you more.
You’ll end up having to replace things more often, and you’ll spend more time and effort cleaning and maintaining them.
Investing in durable materials is an investment in your child’s room and your peace of mind.
It will save you time, money, and frustration in the long run.
Think about it: a durable room can withstand years of use and still look great.
It’s a space that your child can grow up in without you having to constantly worry about damage or wear and tear.
I always tell clients to think about the long-term value of their choices.
It’s not just about how the room looks now, it’s about how it will look in five, ten, or even fifteen years.
Choosing durable materials is a smart way to create a space that will stand the test of time.
Section 4: Overcomplicating the Space
Have you ever walked into a room and felt instantly overwhelmed?
Maybe it was cluttered, disorganized, or just had too much going on.
That’s what it can feel like for kids in an overly complicated space.
I’ve seen rooms that are so packed with toys, furniture, and décor that they’re practically unusable.
It’s like a sensory overload, and it can be really detrimental to a child’s well-being.
According to research, cluttered environments can increase stress levels and decrease focus.
Kids need a calm and organized space to learn, play, and relax.
An overly complicated room can be distracting and anxiety-inducing.
I remember one client who had a playroom filled to the brim with toys.
Her son was constantly overwhelmed and had a hard time focusing on any one activity.
We worked together to declutter the room and create a more organized space.
We got rid of toys he no longer played with, organized the remaining toys into bins and shelves, and created a designated play area.
The transformation was amazing. Her son was much calmer and more focused, and he actually started playing with his toys more.
One of the biggest mistakes I see is parents trying to cram too much into a small space.
They want to give their kids everything, but they end up creating a cluttered and chaotic environment.
It’s better to have fewer, well-chosen items than to have a room full of stuff that’s never used.
Simplicity is key.
Choose a few essential pieces of furniture and décor, and leave plenty of open space.
This will create a sense of calm and allow your child to move around freely.
I always recommend incorporating storage solutions into the design.
Bins, shelves, and drawers can help keep toys and other items organized and out of sight.
Labeling the storage containers can also help kids learn to put things away.
Another important aspect of simplifying a space is to choose a calming color palette.
Bright, bold colors can be stimulating, but they can also be overwhelming.
Opt for soft, neutral colors like blues, greens, or grays.
These colors are calming and can help create a sense of peace and tranquility.
I’ve found that incorporating natural elements, like plants or wood accents, can also help create a calming atmosphere.
Nature has a way of soothing the mind and reducing stress.
Remember, the goal is to create a space that fosters creativity and imagination, not one that overwhelms and distracts.
A simple, organized room can be a blank canvas for your child’s imagination.
It’s a space where they can focus, create, and explore without feeling overwhelmed.
Section 5: Forgetting the Child’s Voice
This is a big one, folks.
I’ve seen so many parents design rooms for their kids without ever asking them what they want.
They get caught up in their own ideas and forget that it’s the child who will actually be living in the space.
I’m not saying you should let your child dictate every single detail, but it’s important to involve them in the process.
After all, it’s their room, and they should feel like they have a say in how it looks and feels.
I remember one little girl who was so excited to have her room redecorated.
Her parents had chosen a beautiful, sophisticated design with muted colors and elegant furniture.
But when she saw the finished room, she burst into tears.
She said it didn’t feel like her room, it felt like a guest room.
Her parents had completely overlooked her personality and preferences.
They had created a room that they liked, but it wasn’t a room that she loved.
Involving your child in the décor process can be a fun and rewarding experience.
It’s a chance to bond with them, learn about their interests, and help them express their individuality.
Start by asking them what colors they like, what themes they’re interested in, and what kind of furniture they prefer.
Show them pictures of different rooms and ask them what they like and dislike about each one.
Take them shopping with you and let them choose some of the accessories, like bedding, curtains, or artwork.
You can even let them help with some of the decorating tasks, like painting or arranging furniture.
Of course, there will be times when you have to say no to their ideas.
Maybe they want to paint the walls neon pink or cover the room in glitter.
In those cases, it’s important to explain why their ideas aren’t feasible and offer alternative solutions.
For example, you could suggest using neon pink accents or adding glitter to a smaller area, like a bulletin board.
The key is to find a compromise that satisfies both you and your child.
Remember, it’s not about creating a room that perfectly matches your aesthetic.
It’s about creating a space that reflects your child’s personality and makes them feel happy and comfortable.
A room that is designed with the child’s input can foster a sense of ownership and pride.
They’ll feel like they have a special place that is truly their own.
And that’s something that no amount of money can buy.
Conclusion
So, there you have it: the top 5 décor flops I’ve seen in kids’ rooms.
From overly themed spaces to unsafe designs, there are plenty of mistakes to avoid.
But don’t let this discourage you.
Creating a beautiful and functional space for your child is totally achievable.
Just remember to prioritize their well-being, safety, and individuality.
Choose durable materials, simplify the space, and involve your child in the process.
And most importantly, don’t forget that it’s their room, not yours.
Let them express their personality and create a space that they truly love.
A child’s room is more than just a place to sleep and store their belongings.
It’s a sanctuary, a playground, and a reflection of their unique personality.
By making thoughtful décor choices, you can create a space that fosters their creativity, supports their development, and makes them feel happy and loved.
And that’s the best investment you can make.
Thanks for reading, and happy decorating!
