Okay… confession time! The sight of an overly-themed kids’ room usually makes me feel a bit queasy 😬 I’ve always believed you don’t have to sacrifice good style just because you’re decorating for little ones.
Kids’ rooms can be fun and beautiful — they don’t have to be tacky! So while I’ve typically leaned toward timeless pinks, classic florals, and traditional designs, I’ve learned it is possible to do themed rooms with style. 🙌
My heart beats for good design, a well-styled space, and dreamy photography. And yes — I’m OBSESSED with wallpaper (lucky I own wallpaper businesses, right? 😉).
So if you're looking to create a themed room without going overboard, here are my top tips, featuring two gorgeous rooms we worked on with the fabulous Jules Robinson.
✅ The DOs: How to Nail a Stylish Themed Room
1. Start with a vision board.
Before you buy a single thing, screenshot your fave products and collage them together (Pic Collage app is great for this!). This helps you see if your choices are cohesive. Don’t skip this step — it’s a game-changer!
2. Choose a timeless wallpaper.
Stick to designs that will grow with your child — think checks, stripes, geometrics. You can then introduce the theme through decor pieces, which are way easier (and cheaper) to update later.
3. Let your wallpaper shine.
If your wallpaper is bold or patterned, balance it out with plain block-colour decor. Limit your feature wall styling to your child’s name or one or two minimalist prints — that’s plenty. Want to go all out? Wallpaper all four walls, and break it up with wainscoting or panelling for that designer touch.
4. Keep linen simple but fun.
Use block-colour bedding and cushions, and maybe throw in one statement cushion for fun. Pull two or three colours from the wallpaper and repeat those tones — not necessarily an exact match, but similar shades work beautifully. Choose a solid colour doona and mix it up with playful patterned sheets like spots, checks or stripes.
5. Style the other walls mindfully.
Add wall art that complements your wallpaper. Think of it like a gallery moment — keep tones and colours connected for a cohesive look.
6. Don’t forget the mood lighting.
Lighting changes everything! A bedside lamp, pendant light or wall sconce adds warmth and personality.
Bed by: Hide and Seek Kids
❌ The DON'Ts: What to Avoid
1. Over-styling or cluttering the space.
Less is more! Kids’ rooms should still be functional. Make sure there’s proper storage for all their little treasures — baskets, toy boxes, shelves, cupboards. A place for everything means it’s easier to keep tidy.
2. Going theme-crazy.
Skip the superhero doona and themed feature wall combo. One themed element is enough — you don’t need to shout “DINOSAURS!” from every corner 😅 Keep the theme subtle and stylish.
Mud kitchen by: Hide and Seek Kids
Final Thoughts 💭
I hope this blog inspires you to create a themed space that’s both magical and stylish. Remember, kids grow fast — so design a room that can grow with them, without needing a full makeover every six months.
Happy styling, lovely! 💕
La-Shea x
