When first contemplating furnishing your child’s room it can be tempting to opt for some of the cuter items of miniaturised furniture designed especially for very young children. While it’s hard not to concede that some of these items are well designed and look great, one has to remember that children grow fast and will soon outgrow such pieces. Flexibility is the key here; opt for furniture which can adapt to your child’s growing needs as well as their size.

Bookcases and Shelving

Probably the most versatile and adaptable pieces of storage furniture, the classic free standing bookcase is ideal for storing those baby essentials, toys and games while your child grows and will probably last an entire childhood as it becomes more functional to its original purpose further down the line.

Shelving also can be just as versatile and ideal where floor space is at a premium. When using shelves, ensure that everyday items are easily within reach, with high, difficult to reach shelves used for longer term storage.

This solid wood activity bookcase is ideal for a child’s room with six extra large drawers and a large top shelve area for extra store space or display purposes. The unit is fully assembled and available in the bright colours shown or in a soft pastel alternative. £320 from GLTC Along the same theme, the activity storage bench is a great activity/storage solution with 3 capacious wooden drawers on castors for simple accessibility. Again, this unit is also available in pastel colours. £260 from GLTC

Drawers

A basic chest of drawers should be a staple on any furniture shopping list. Resist the temptation to go for cheap flat-pack solutions and invest a little extra money in a quality set of pine drawers. The small extra cost will long be forgotten over the years of constant reliable use you’ll get as opposed to the 5 minutes of glory that cheap drawers often enjoy.

The Canterbury Painted 4 Drawer Chest is a compact and well built set of drawers which will stand the test of time. £299.20 from Pine Solutions The Canterbury Painted Chest Multi-Drawer is a solid pine furniture piece with 4 large format drawers, 3 medium and 4 mini-drawers, painted in soft cream with a polished pine top.  £409.50 from Pine Solutions

Containers

There are many clever storage solutions available to buy these days and simple containers tend to be the most versatile. Clear plastic boxes which can be stacked or slid under a bed frame are ideal.
Whicker styles and fabrics can also be used to great effect where they will be constantly on show. Also, the traditional style bulky toy chest is ideal for quick and simple storage of less easy to store items such as toys and games.

A traditional pine storage seat is a perfect way to add storage and seating in one convenient unit. £120 from GLTC Alternatively, opt for these sturdy wooden  stacking boxes sold individually for £50 from GLTC

Pegs and Hangers

The back of a door or side of a large wardrobe are ideal places to hang items like coats, dressing gowns and bags. A simple set of pegs or a single coat hook is usually a must for any kid’s room.

Pink Girl’s Peg Rail is hand painted with 4 handy pegs designed with young Princesses in mind. £9 from notonthehighstreet.com
The Beach Hut Peg Rack is ideal as in a beach themed room or just as a fun bathroom accessory that kids will enjoy. Choose from a range of colour options so it coordinates with your existing decoration scheme. £24.99 from notonthehighstreet.com

Display

As you’ll remember from your own childhood, kid’s love decorating their rooms with posters, magazine clippings and art that they have created in school. Providing a dedicated area for display can often be a good idea to maintain a semblance of order. Having one dedicated display wall can often be a good idea, maybe starting with a pin-board or even covering an entire wall with cork board can be quite effective.

The Magnetic Lego Print Notice Board is a colourful and fun display idea. Ideal for displaying photos and clippings, the board includes 4 Lego themed magnets to hold items in place. £42 from allupandon.com
A traditional Cork Notice Board is a simple and economical solution. This board from Focus is just £2.99

More Storage Ideas