Expert interior designing for kids

As parents, it's almost impossible to think the job is done when it comes to child safety and interior designing should be, while they're young, focused on ensuring they are protected at all times. Kids interior designer Joanne McWhinney provides some light into standards around kids.

Why do kids' spaces require an interior designer?

Children go through various stages of development, so it's important to combine an understanding of these stages, with government regulations and safety standards, to create spaces that promote development, exploration and play.

What are the main criteria parents should be aware of when thinking about spaces for their children?

Safety, such as lockable doors, safety glass and sightlines; function and use of the space, for example, bath versus shower, storage requirements etc; and materials, furniture and fittings that are age appropriate, durable and low maintenance – so rounded edges, low-emissive washable paint, and vinyl flooring are great options.

When balancing the needs of children with those of the adults, do factors such as noise and access cause much conflict?

It is more the choice of materials and finishes that causes conflict than these factors, which are controlled to a large extent by building regulations. Noise, for example, can be controlled with room dividers, padded walls and acoustic flooring.

Is it possible to design a space to evolve as the children grow older without having to spend lots on redoing it?

Yes, by using items that can be added to or altered as the child grows. For example, storage units, cots that convert to single beds and height-adjustable desks can all 'grow' as the child grows.

How difficult is it to integrate safety, ergonomics and environmental factors into the design and still keep it fun?

Developing inspirational concepts is part of the design process, and safety, ergonomics and environmental factors are fundamental considerations that are incorporated into every project. The challenge is in having concepts realised with the increasing cost of labour and materials.

Should the children themselves have input into the design?

Definitely. There is a quote by Dr Seuss that says, "A person's a person, no matter how small." Children have their own ideas of what they want and the materials or colours they like in a space. By incorporating their ideas into the design the end result is a space that the child will love and the adults will appreciate.

Interior designing with the kids in mind is imperative, so contact an interior designer in your area today to find out ways you can make your house safe: