• 

  This bedroom solves the problem of siblings with dueling tastes; keep it symmetrical and colourful. Photo: John Gruen.

• 

  Vintage Signs and letter blocks spell out a child’s name above the mantel. Photo: Melanie Acevedo.

• 

  A nursery can be as sophisticated as it is soothing. Photo: Edward North.

• 

  Bright floor coverings and bold patterned furniture pieces make this child’s nursery a bold and playful space. Photo: Max Kim-Bee.

• 

  By making the centre of the room into a living space, guests are made to feel welcome. Photo: Jonathan Wallen.

• 

  Oversized polka dots on the floor give a soft room an instant depth and mod panache. Photo: Suzanne Sharp.

• 

  These colours are an ideal alternative for a boy who doesn’t want the traditional blue or green options. Photo: Tim Street-Porter.

When it comes to designing the perfect room for your child, inspiration is at hand. Susan Salk, New York designer and former projects editor of House & Garden has collected over 200 photographs showcasing some of the best kids’ rooms around the world. Room for Children: Stylish Spaces for Sleep and Play is awash with fabulous, magical creations for babies, toddlers and older children.

Salk selected interiors which were practical as well as beautiful. “The rooms had to feel as much about the children and the family as they did about the designer,” she says. “The designers’ work I pulled from were all those whom I admired immensely.”

The collection ranges widely across countries, ages and tastes. Salk also reminds us that a lot can be achieved with a small budget. “Find some jazzy paint colour, a great rug and some elegant curtains or fabric to create the special nooks they love to sleep, play and work in.”

Room for Children: Stylish Spaces for Sleep and Play by Susan Salk,
Rizzoli New York, A$65 Little Living

DOWNLOAD THE FULL STORY – ISSUE 12

Images courtesy of Rizzoli International Publications, Inc.