Before and After: A Cozy Bedroom Redo Packed with Floor-to-Ceiling Storage

One problem it seems like nearly everyone has with their bedrooms? Not enough storage — especially in kids’ rooms, where bedrooms not only have to accommodate clothes and shoes, but also toys, books, stuffed animals, and more.

That’s one of the issues Nina (@ninas.craftivity) saw in her 8-year-old son’s bedroom. She hadn’t done much to change the room in the years since the family moved in, and now, she says, “it wasn’t functional anymore. It needed more storage space, and I wanted to create a space that was beautiful yet functional.”

That meant a kid-friendly style that could grow with her son, plus ample storage space for everything an 8-year-old boy could possibly need.

While it certainly sounds like a tall order, Nina was able to make it happen thanks to serious planning and plenty of DIYs. She started by plotting out a series of built-ins for the space to give the room the practicality it was lacking. Bookshelves with accessible cabinets are good for things her son reaches for on the regular; the tallest built-in shelves display favorite toys. Nina also built in a window seat so her son has a spot to curl up with a book.

Another crucial add: the floating desk, which Nina hired out. She helped it pop by adding fluted paneling behind it. Now, it’s a stylish and functional little homework spot.

Nina kept the built-ins light, but brought the drama overhead with a navy blue ceiling. She hired pros for this part, too, since it can be a (literal) pain in the neck. On the bed’s wall, Nina used a dusty blue.

Because Nina did almost everything herself, she was able to save some serious cash. “The whole project of the built-in bookshelves and desk and the window bench cost way less as a DIY project as compared to if I had contracted a carpenter for the entire millwork,” Nina says.

And while Nina loves the whole room, there’s one small piece that’s her favorite: “I love how the accent walls in the reading nook and above the desk really enhance the space!” she says. It goes to show you that even the tiniest details can make the difference.

Inspired? Submit your own project here.