A Child’s Room That Grows with Them – How to Plan a Smart Renovation?

Renovating a child’s room is often the first major project parents take on in a new home. It’s filled with emotions, Pinterest boards and high hopes – but also hidden costs, logistical challenges, and dozens of small decisions that matter more than we think. Because this is more than just a place to sleep – it’s where a child plays, learns, grows and feels safe. So how do you plan a renovation that makes room for all of that – now and in the future?

1. Start with real needs – today’s and tomorrow’s

One of the most common mistakes is designing a room just for the current stage of life. A toddler who plays on the floor today may need a desk in two years, and more privacy in five.

Before choosing paint colours or furniture, ask yourself:

  • What will this room need to do in the next 3–5 years?

  • Can I design the space so it’s easy to adapt over time?

  • Which elements should "grow" with the child (e.g. furniture, lighting, storage)?

2. Treat it like a real renovation project – because it is

A child’s room deserves just as much thoughtful planning as a kitchen or bathroom. In fact, children often use their space more intensively – and test it in unexpected ways.

Think about:

  • The right order of works (e.g. electrics → flooring → painting),

  • Choosing the right contractors, especially if your family is living in the home during the works,

  • Timing the renovation to minimise disruption (school holidays, weekend trips, etc.).

3. Safety first – without compromising on aesthetics

A child’s room doesn’t need to look like a play centre. You can absolutely combine style with safety:

  • Use non-toxic paints (look for air quality certifications),

  • Choose furniture with rounded edges and stable construction,

  • Protect sockets, drawers and windows, especially in upper floors or shared homes.

4. Invest in quality – less really is more

In a child’s room, durability matters more than quantity. It’s better to have a few well-chosen, solid pieces that will last through several growth stages.

Look for:

  • Natural wood instead of cheap MDF or laminate,

  • Durable, easy-to-clean flooring (such as high-quality vinyl),

  • Layered lighting – general, task and soft lighting for evenings.

5. Design for flexibility

If you want the room to grow with your child, leave room for change:

  • Modular storage and adaptable furniture,

  • Adjustable desks or extendable beds,

  • Neutral walls and floors, with colourful accents in soft furnishings and decor.

This way, you can update the look as your child grows without tearing the whole room apart every two years.

6. Let your child be part of it – but don’t hand over the reins

Children often have strong opinions – and that’s wonderful. Let them choose a colour for a lamp, a print for their bed linen, or posters for the walls. But the bigger, more permanent decisions (like layout or flooring) are best made by adults – with the future in mind.

7. And if it feels like too much – you don’t have to do it alone

Even a “simple” room renovation can become overwhelming when life is already full. If you're juggling family, work and everyday stress, bringing in someone to plan and coordinate the process can make all the difference.

At Verdé Collective, I manage home renovation projects so families don’t have to handle every call, contractor or schedule. You stay focused on your life – I make sure the work gets done, smoothly and with care.

A child’s room is a special place – for them and for you. It’s where first memories are made, where creativity sparks, and where safety and comfort really matter. When planned well, it can adapt beautifully over the years – and truly grow with your child.

Looking for help coordinating a child’s room renovation – or another home project?

Let’s talk – calmly, clearly, and with no pressure.
Verdé is here to bring clarity and calm to your renovation journey.

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5 Common Interior Renovation Mistakes and How to Avoid Them