Storage Savvy Boy’s Bedroom

28 Feb

Creating a Boys' Room That Balances Playfulness + Practicality

Designing a room for two young boys that’s both playful and practical requires a thoughtful approach. This project aimed to create a space that reflects their adventurous spirit while ensuring long-term functionality. Inspired by the coastal surroundings, we incorporated ocean tones and creative elements to spark imagination.

The Design Approach: A Room That Grows with the Kids

The design blends functionality with fun, using a soothing palette of ocean blues, neutrals, and sandy tones. More than just a calming colour scheme, the goal was to create a room that would grow with the boys. The space needed to accommodate their current play and study needs while adapting over time.

A key investment in custom joinery ensures that the room remains practical and organised for years to come, while IKEA cabinets with a custom desktop provide a flexible, short-term solution. These units can start on the floor for easy access when the boys are young, then be mounted on the wall as they grow. Since they’re not built-in, they don’t lock the room into a specific design for resale value. When no longer needed in this space, they can be repurposed elsewhere for storage or even donated.

Smart Solutions for Small Spaces

Every project has its challenges, and this room was no different. The location of a light switch clashed with our original joinery plan, so we designed narrow shelving around it, preserving functionality without crowding the room. An unusual jog in the room's shape was turned into an opportunity, adding extra storage. A bunk bed wasn’t possible due to the layout, so we opted for a trundle bed, providing extra sleeping space for guests while keeping the room open.

Key Features That Make the Room Shine

Several key features enhance this boys' room, balancing style, function, and flexibility.

Custom Joinery: Designed to maximise storage while keeping the room clutter-free, custom joinery offers stylish organisation for toys, books, and crafts. This is a long-term investment that will serve the family for years.
Adaptable IKEA Wall Units: An affordable and flexible short-term solution for the desk area, these units can start on the floor for easy access and later be mounted on the wall as the boys grow. Since they aren’t built-in, they offer flexibility for resale and can be repurposed or donated in the future.
Multi-Functional Desk Area: Combining custom joinery with the IKEA units, the desk area serves as a homework station, craft area, and creative space, evolving with the boys' changing interests.

The Outcome: A Room That Works for the Whole Family

Designed to grow with the boys, the room reflects their personalities while remaining adaptable to their changing needs. They are thrilled with the additional space for homework, crafts, and sleepovers, while the trundle bed provides flexibility for guests. The parents appreciate the investment in custom joinery for long-term functionality, along with the adaptable IKEA units that provide storage without committing to a fixed design.

This room isn’t just for sleeping—it supports creativity, provides long-term value, and reflects how thoughtful design can enhance a family’s living experience.