Throughout a lifetime, the cost of redecorating rooms in your house can add up. With the average cost of labour for a medium-sized room totalling £7401, it’s worth considering styles that will last the test of time, both in terms of durability and popularity. You can even add value to your property through careful thought and investment in designs that will never go out of fashion.
Preparing your home to welcome a child is a time often full of excitement, but it can be difficult to design a room that suits both you and your children’s needs. There is the additional element that when your child grows up, they often have preferences for certain styles and colours which they can grow out of quite quickly, so working with an interior designer could help.
Marlena Kaminska, designer at ValueLights, alongside interior expert Ellie Kennedy, and product manager Helen O’Connor, both from 247 Blinds, talk through things you should consider to ensure you can decorate your child’s nursery with longevity in mind.
1. Invest in furnishings that will last the test of time
Ellie shares: “When decorating a nursery, it is important to opt for furnishings that can stand the test of time. Children can be tough on their furniture, and investing in pieces that are durable and built to last can save time and money in the long run.”
“Choosing timeless designs and high-quality materials can also ensure that the furniture will remain stylish and functional as the child grows and their tastes and needs change. Additionally, opting for sturdy, easy-to-clean materials like wood or metal can help make the furniture more resistant to wear and tear caused by spills, stains, and rough play.
“Look at vintage chests of drawers which will not only add a timeless element to your child’s room but are built to last with their generous proportions that can accommodate growing clothes collections!”, explains Ellie.
2. Opt for a timeless colour scheme
Ellie explains: “Trending paint colours or wallpaper prints come as quickly as they go. It can be tempting to jump on these interior trends, especially if you’re seeing them everywhere. Timeless colour schemes are easily re-adapted and won’t leave you feeling regretful. Consider peelable wallpaper, artwork and accessories that can be changed at little cost and moved around your home”
Ellie adds: “Consider that as your child grows older, they’ll want to put their own personality and identity into their space. It’s worth avoiding gender stereotypes, so pink for girls and blue for boys is a big no-no. You can add in different colours as the child grows and their interests change- yellow is a great gender-neutral option that works well for all ages too.”
3. Use blinds to your advantage
Helen says: “Both blackout blinds and curtains have similar purposes in regards to blocking out light. However, there are a few things to consider before choosing blinds and curtains for your baby’s bedroom.”
“Combining blackout-lined curtains and blackout blinds gives you the best performance in terms of managing light levels. Curtains have the added bonus of being generally more insulating, and can cover those trickier larger windows, whereas blackout blinds offer a cost-effective, and easily cleanable method — A must for most parents!
“Blackout roller blinds work best when installed in a window recess, and the light is 100% blocked from coming through the material, so doubling up is the best method to be sure of a great night’s sleep for your little one.
Helen adds: “It’s also important to consider if your window dressings are child safe. Children want to explore the world around them which means many household products including blinds could pose a risk to them. Ensure all safety devices are installed safely away from any climbable surfaces and at least 1.5 metres from the floor and move all furniture away from the window if you can, including any cots or beds.”
4. Make the most of versatile storage spaces
Creating smart storage solutions is an easy way to reduce clutter, optimise space and add a touch of personality.
“Storage areas like bookshelves can double up as decorative elements. By showcasing items like your children’s favourite books, you can add a touch of character to your living space while also bringing joy to your little ones. There are some fabulous baskets and storage boxes available which will add colour to your shelves whilst providing a home for toys and other small items”
“Underbed and wardrobe storage options are also a great way to save on space. Easily packed away and hidden from sight, it contributes to a minimalist aesthetic which is often an appealing decor choice for busy families. These storage options can be used to store nappies, other baby necessities and when your children get older, toys and books too”, explains Ellie.
5. Ensure your lighting scheme is flexible
From bedtime reading to late-night feeds, lighting in your nursery needs to be flexible to suit both you and your baby.
Marlena Kaminska, designer at ValueLights, says: “Bedroom lighting should always be carefully considered to create a conducive environment for sleep, but this is especially important in a nursery when trying to get a baby to settle.
“Always use soft warm-toned lighting to create a soothing ambience. Children’s bedroom lights and night lights are great low-intensity options and can be found in various novelty shapes and designs to bring character to your nursery.
“As you’ll often be up in the middle of the night with your baby, you need lighting solutions which are both practical for feeding and changing but also soft enough so as not to be too disruptive to your baby’s sleep. Layering your lighting is key in a nursery. Be sure to position warm, task lighting in specific areas, such as a table lamp near your changing table and an arc floor lamp over your rocking chair.
“As your child grows up, this feeding corner becomes the perfect reading nook, with the floor lamp casting a cosy glow for bedtime stories.”
