Unless you’re raising Blue Ivy Carter, kids’ art doesn’t have to be Basquiat. At the same time, children outgrow everything quickly: shoes, jackets, and finger paints. Here is a quick guide to making a sophisticated and vibrant space that is kid-friendly from diapers to Driver’s Ed.
1.Think Simple: Don’t stress about going out of your way to introduce statues or sculptures into a playroom. Seamlessly integrate art onto walls and shelves, and back up the color palettes with bedding, light fixtures, and toys. If you’re having trouble picking out items, start with a theme. Aviation and princesses can work, but don’t feel limited by these tropes! Go as broad as patterns or a color palette. For example, the
Curtis Kulig “Love Me” series go together without being too matchy-matchy. The black and white scheme keeps the room looking neat, while the red and gold accents add a pop of color and a glam.
2. Don’t Distract with Abstracts: Abstract art can really pull together a kid’s room, just don’t over-do it. One large piece, perhaps mounted over the bed or crib, will suffice. Support a mega centerpiece like
Don Pendleton's Rapture & Resurrection Print Set with solid colors throughout: wall paint, upholstery, and rugs.
3. Embrace Multi-Media: If you are willing to go full-Pinterest, a wall gallery can complement even the smallest room. Mix and matchDavid Weidman andDallas Clayton prints with family photos for a unique, personal feel. You’d be amazed what a good frame can do to elevate a printed Instagram post.
4. Teach ‘Em a Lesson: Have your art project do double-duty by incorporating basic lessons into the visuals. Canvas prints can be a subtle way to teach your tot shapes, colors, fruits, veggies, animals - you name it. Again, stick to a central theme so the space does not feel too cluttered or chaotic. Erin D. Garcia’s“4 Shapes in 6 Colors” rotations bring together bold colors and basic geometry.
For the tween set, feel free to take it one step further. A powerful quote can help your child jumpstart their day. Try these prints by Ornamental Conifer, which hits the trifecta of design: minimalist, jazzy, and inspirational.
5. Stop, Collaborate, and Listen: Vanilla Ice coming in with some spot-on parenting advice. The most important part of decorating your kid’s room is to collaborate. Consult with the experts to choose the ideal prints, but don’t forget the most important expert sits across the dinner table from you. At the end of the day, the pieces you choose should be both a reflection of his personality and a window into who he aspires to be. Let your child be the curator of her own live-in gallery.
