How to create a kids room they won't grow out of

Kids outgrow lots of things – their clothes, their shoes and their tastes, to name a few! So, when you're creating their room, how can you make sure it will last the test of time? These elevated kids spaces are designed to grow with them, from tiny to teen and beyond.

While little kids tend to love bright colours, cute details and a whirlwind of patterns (more is more!) they may start dreaming of something a little more grown up as they hit double digits and beyond. Here's how to keep up with their style evolution.

The Lowdown in Poppy doubled up for an extra pop of colour by @timneve

just a pop of colour

When they were little, their favourite colour may have been all of them – preferably all at once! Growing up doesn't have to mean going grey. Choosing a feature colour can be a fun way to bring some playful personality to their space, like this set of two Lowdowns in Poppy adding the cherry on top in an earth-toned room.

The Sage Standard is the perfect playmate they won't outgrow, styled by @thefrenchfolk

it's the little things

If your little ones are still tiny but you're thinking long-term, take a leaf out of @thefrenchfolk book and focus on the basics. A timeless jute rug, furniture in timber and rattan, colourful abstract art and a locker that will last are all pieces that would look just as at home in a teenager or grown-up's bedroom as they do in this sweet playroom. Little extras like toys, puzzles and games bring the sprinkle of fun and can be swapped out easily as they grow. Plus, you can stash them inside The Standard for siblings to grow into later!

The Shorty in Chalk adds a visual focal point for this cool twin room by @glassette

turn down the brightness

Mix and match patterns are still on the menu! If you want to give your clashing colours an elevated update, try using a desaturated colour palette that lets the textiles breathe. These sandy, sun-bleached linens give a twin room a cool, calm feel without overpowering the space. Fun details like the octopus lamp bring the sense of fun and play, but can be swapped for other options in time!

Recreate this @mustardmade look with two Olive Skinnys or an Olive Twinny

stick to the theme

They may be outgrowing the dinosaur obsession or feeling less passionate about their favourite Disney character, but leaning into a theme can still be helpful to tie a room together. As your littles get bigger, try leaning on a vibe, colour palette or a subtle nod to an era – like this retro Star Wars room – for your theme. It makes the space feel cohesive, while still celebrating what they love.