Sharing a bedroom can be a fun way for siblings to bond while also teaching them how to share. Even if your kids have a small bedroom, you still have a range of options for furniture, such as bunk beds and lofts beds, as well as storage features that will make the most of the room while giving each child their own personal space. In this guide, we’ll share tips and ideas on creating a shared bedroom that your children will love.
Contents
- Creating the Perfect Bedroom Layout
- Smart Storage Solutions for Double Occupancy
- Bunk Beds, Loft Beds, Murphy Beds, and Trundle Beds: The Ultimate Space Savers that Kids Love
- Working with Color Schemes
- Room Divider Ideas and Privacy Solutions
- Lighting Strategies for Shared Spaces
- Kids Shared Bedroom Themes
- Designating Sleep, Study, and Play Areas
- Creating Memories Your Kids Will Cherish
- Frequently Asked Questions
Creating the Perfect Bedroom Layout
Having the right layout of furniture in the bedroom can be the difference between whether your kids are happy in their space or feel like they’re right on top of each other. To create the perfect layout, focus on the following three key areas:
1. Space Planning
Start by measuring the available space and evaluating the room's dimensions. Take note of windows, how doors open, and other features in the room. This will help you figure out the best spot for furniture. Make sure the beds, dressers, and other furniture pieces will fit well together for a balanced layout. If you’re wondering what kind of beds (usually the largest piece of furniture) will fit in the space, check out CozyBeds’ Beds Sizes Guide.
2. Traffic Flow
You don’t always think about traffic when it comes to a bedroom. But there’s a natural flow that will occur in terms of how your kids use the room, play, do homework, and get ready for school, activities, and bedtime. Identify main paths, like between the door, closets, and play areas. Arrange furniture to ensure smooth movement, avoiding obstacles and congestion.
3. Storage Zone Distribution
Effective storage solutions are essential in any bedroom, but especially for children’s shared rooms. Set up specific zones for each child's belongings, like their clothes, toys, and sporting equipment. This keeps things organized and helps kids feel responsible for their own belongings and space. Use a variety of storage solutions, like dressers, shelves, beds with built-in storage and under-the-bed storage containers, to make the most of the space.
Focusing on these elements will guide you in the types of beds and other furniture you buy while helping you create a layout that's both practical and pleasing to the eye. You’ll be able to create a comfortable and harmonious space where your children will feel good, sleep well, and thrive.
Smart Storage Solutions for Double Occupancy
Designing a kids bedroom for two or more kids means you need smart storage. Every inch of space must be used well to keep the room tidy and tranquil. For example, using vertical space is a smart move. Modular shelving or wall-mounted storage, including wall hooks, keeps things organized while freeing up floor space. Under-bed drawers or bins offer hidden storage without making the room feel cramped.
Here are some storage ideas:
- Modular shelving units
- Wall-mounted storage systems, including floating shelves and hooks
- Beds with built-in drawers and shelves
- Under-bed storage containers
- Rolling storage bins
Built-in storage, such as CozyBeds’ collection of beds with built-in storage drawers and shelves, can help keep children’s rooms tidy while also saving on having to buy additional furniture pieces.
Bunk Beds, Loft Beds, Murphy Beds, and Trundle Beds: The Ultimate Space Savers that Kids Love
Because beds take up so much floor space, if you can save in that area, it can free up more space in the room for activities besides sleeping. Here are four of the best space-saving bed designs that have the added benefit of being fun for kids:
1. Bunk Beds
Bunk beds are the classic vertical sleeping solution that allows multiple children to sleep in an area that occupies the footprint of one bed. Plus, kids love the added excitement of being up high and climbing up to and down from the top bunk. Some designs even incorporate slides and other fun features, like tents.
While you’re probably used to the classic twin over twin bunk beds that sleep two kids, there are also triple bunks and quad bunk beds as well as some designs that incorporate full and queen bed sizes.
2. Loft Beds
Loft beds for kids offer a variety of versatile solutions that are perfect for shared bedrooms. By elevating the bed, you get usable space underneath that can accommodate a desk, dresser, other storage, or a play area. You essentially double the room's square footage by utilizing vertical space. In addition, a loft bed will give each child their own personal space within the shared room..
3. Trundle Beds
Trundle beds are a great option for very small shared bedrooms as well as for kids who share a room but also like to have sleepovers. You can pull the trundle bed out when it’s needed and then tuck it away to free up floor space during the day. These beds are ideal for smaller rooms that simply can't accommodate permanent side-by-side beds during the day.
Murphy Beds
Murphy beds, or wall beds, fold up against the wall when not in use, completely freeing up floor space during the day for play, study, or other activities. There are two main designs - vertical and horizontal:
- Vertical Murphy beds fold up from the foot of the bed and work in rooms with standard ceiling heights.
- Horizontal Murphy beds will work well with slanted or low ceilings or in rooms that have features, like windows, where you don’t want to cover wall space.
Working with Color Schemes
Choosing the right color scheme for your children’s shared bedroom will make the space feel harmonious and welcoming while also giving each child the opportunity to express their individuality. Think about what your children enjoy now, but also colors that will appeal to them as they grow older.
When deciding on the color scheme, start with a main color that both kids like. From there, you can add accent colors and accessories that are unique to each child. This will let kids have a level of autonomy in the shared room while matching their preferences and personality. Letting each child choose from complementary accent colors will make them happy while still ensuring the room has a cohesive look.
Room Divider Ideas and Privacy Solutions
Creating a shared kids' bedroom means finding a balance between personal space and privacy. There are a number of smart ways to create individual areas without losing the open feel of the room.
Temporary Divider Options
Temporary dividers are a quick fix for setting up boundaries. Think about using curtains, or folding screens to give each child their own space. These options are easy to move or take down, so you can change things up as needed.
In addition, beds with canopies or house frames can let you hang curtains around the bed, which also gives each child the feeling of having their own personal space.
Permanent Partition Solutions
For a lasting solution, built-in partitions are another option. For example, short pony walls or built-in bookshelves can serve as room dividers.
Creative Screening Methods
Other room divider options include:
- Hanging plants or vines to create a living, natural partition
- Strategically placed furniture, such as dressers or wardrobes to section off areas
- Hanging fabrics, such as sheer curtains or macramé panels, to offer a soft, yet effective division
Lighting Strategies for Shared Spaces
Creating the perfect lighting for a kids' shared bedroom is a creative and rewarding challenge. By mixing different lighting types, you can make a space that works well for each child.
Task lighting is important. Give each child their own reading lamp or sconce. This lets them read or do activities without waking their sibling. Place these lights on each child’s night stand or above desks or bunk beds.
For the whole room, use dimmers or adjustable lights. A central light and wall or floor lamps make the room cozy and welcoming.
Adding small, battery-operated LED lights or fairy lights is another great idea. Each child can control these, making their own special area in the room.
By balancing task and ambient lighting, you can create a shared bedroom with a comfortable feel that works for each child.
Kids Shared Bedroom Themes
Designing a themed bedroom for kids can create a space that feels both cohesive and magical. They sky’s the limit when it comes to themes that will spark your children’s imaginations. Here are just a few examples:
Adventure and Travel Themes
Travel and adventure-themed bedrooms can inspire kids to learn and explore. Use world maps, vintage suitcases, and globes to spark curiosity and inspire your children to want to learn more about geography and different cultures.
Fantasy and Storybook Concepts
Create a magical fairy tale feel with castle beds, fairy lights, unicorn pillows, and more. Incorporate beloved storybook characters through wall decals or artwork, creating an enchanting space that encourages imagination and creativity.
Nature-Inspired Biophilic Design
Nature-themed kids’ bedrooms can create a calming and serene vibe. Use greenery, wood-framed beds, images of wildlife, and more to give the room a peaceful, organic feel.
Involving your kids in the process of choosing a theme for their bedroom will help you create a space they'll love for years to come.
Designating Sleep, Study, and Play Areas
Creating a shared kids' bedroom means setting up unique spots for studying and playing. This way, you make a space that meets your kids' different needs and hobbies.
Desk Arrangements
For multiple study spots, pick desks that fit well together. Choose compact, flexible desks that save space. Or better yet, beds that have built-in desks, such as loft bed desk combos.
Play Zone Organization
Make a play area with visual cues and storage solutions to keep things tidy. Use bright floor mats or rugs to mark the play zone. Use open shelving or toy bins to help sort out toys and games that also encourage kids to put things away.
Multifunctional Furniture Solutions
As noted earlier, multifunctional furniture solutions can help you transition shared rooms for study time, play time, and sleep time.
- Murphy beds or daybeds can make the transition from sleep time to play time easy.
- Rolling storage shelves and desks can let you reconfigure the room in seconds.
- Trundle beds let you tuck one bed away to free up floor space during the day.
Creating Memories Your Kids Will Cherish
Creating a great shared bedroom for your kids doesn’t have to be a challenging process. In fact, it can be fun, creative, and enjoyable because you have such a wide variety of options when it comes to furniture and design styles. By planning well, using multifunctional pieces, and getting versatile storage solutions, you can create a shared space that will work well for everyone. Plus, involving your kids in the design will spark their imaginations and make them feel like they have a sanctuary that’s all their own.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some key considerations when designing a shared bedroom for kids?
When designing a shared bedroom for kids, think about space, privacy, and personalities. It's key to plan the layout well. Look for creative ways to use the space.
How can I effectively utilize vertical space in a shared kids' bedroom?
To use vertical space well, think about bunk or loft beds. They save floor space and can come with extra storage features, like storage steps. Use wall shelves and hanging organizers to keep things tidy.
What are some effective ways to create privacy and personal space within a shared bedroom?
To create privacy, use room dividers, curtains, and bookshelves Designate areas for each child, like a reading nook. Individual lighting can help too.
How can I incorporate both study and play areas in a shared kids' bedroom?
Use multifunctional furniture, such as loft beds with desks, as well as other space-saving solutions that allow for designated work and play areas.