Hello AT,
We are trying to figure out a way to convert our second bedroom into a cool child's room... The room is 23' x 9'.
The room is currently set up into two parts and is used as a guest 'suite' w/a bed, storage area, and sitting room (apparently the divider wall can come down but it is not the most practical solution)...
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Honestly I think the current floorplan is really great. I love that there are different "nooks". Kids love that too. Just change the furnishings and colors to be more child appropriate.
PS. the size of that room is the size of my entire apartment. Jealous!
I just had such a feeling of calm, looking at the photo. Are there more photos?
I think you have a great style and peacefulness and elegance... you are not hurting for style sensibility!
It's not just me then--I couldn't see what was wrong with this space either. I think it's quite nice. Maybe you could say more about what you're looking to get out of the space that's different from what it is now or why you don't like the space as it is?
For a kids room you need to funk it up! I would break the rooms apart into 2 sections; sleep/reading/study & the other play/art. There are endless possibilities, but it really comes down to what you want. A hired designer will never compensate for personal tastes! If the kid is old enough to talk you should ask them what they want (colors, theme, etc...) since they're the ones who have to live with it.
I agree with Laura:
I'm currently reading "A Pattern Language" [click my name] and this is exactly the layout that they suggest utilizing in a bedroom (& particularly a child's room). They argue that a "bed alcove" is essential because sleeping requires a more intimate, closed off space (perhaps with a lowered ceiling) and allows for the rest of the room to be free for other things. Since children really need a space of their own (that shouldn't be strictly just for sleeping) that layout seems to be ideal.
Iron Horse: I read "Patterns of Home" by the same authors while in school and remember how they *loved* their nooks and alcoves! It reminded me of when I was a kid and used to hang out in my closet and read. The nook thing + kids is right on.
I think the room is perfect as is, but just change the furnishings to suit kids. I say keep the bed area and leave the walls as is. Just put a crib in there or a kids bed. As teh kid gets older, it will be like they have their own little apartment.
I do design/layout drawings. I call them space plans. I do hand drafting and/or CAD, mostly for residential clients. I measure spaces, furniture, accessories, etc, take photos and draw them up either for documentation or to present layout suggestions. If you are interested you can email me.
* I'm an architectural designer (basically an architect, but not licensed yet) with 8+ years of exp.
Happy Decorating!
erinn
Oops.
erinn dot designs at gmail dot com
I adore that room. I think it's perfect for a kid. I am in love with the alcove. It's just so cozy and comforting. My room as a child was divided into two spaces, and it always felt so big to me.
While I can't recommend anything in NY I just wanted to say I love you space, and would really enjoy seeing what you come up with for your child. Best of Luck!
Thanks very much everyone for your kind comments and interesting feedback. It is much appreciated!!
Such a beautiful room! Whatever you decide, I think you should keep the partition. One area could be a play/study area (depending on the age of the child) and the other could be for sleep. And I agree with the other comments... it will seem like an apartment to kids, which they love.
I might change the colors a little, but I prefer more subdued colors even for children's rooms... Restful colors that are easy on the eyes and promote sleep. The kid elements can be added more with the furniture and decorating.
Good luck!
I would keep the partition and make that area for play keeping the other area tidy (if that's at all possible with kids).
These rooms are so lovely I hate to see them changed. Kids love beautiful environments also. Why couldn't your kids put their toys in that lovely chest?
I am intrigued by the white artwork. What can you tell me about it?
Thanks to everyone again for taking the time to write such nice feedback and comments.
ps:
Sara (1/17)- I do have more pics but think just one could get posted here. If you're interested in seeing more, p/s email me at buddyrobin716@yahoo.com .
Erinn- Thanks for your info.
Peggy- I created the artwork out of acrylic mediums (on 4' x 2' canvas)- I also have more pics if you're interested in seeing them (my email is above).