How to Design a Classic Boys Bedroom
When we moved into our home in late 2022, I was 38 weeks pregnant and had to press pause on decorating my oldest son’s room. A few years (and plenty of Pinterest saves) later, I finally created a space that feels both playful and timeless—with an Americana theme, smart mix of high and low pieces, and kid-friendly practicality. In the blog, I’m sharing my favorite tips for designing a child’s room that grows with them, stays stylish, and can handle the real-life messes. Whether you're starting from scratch or refreshing a space, this post is full of inspiration and real-mom advice. Come take a peek inside Perry’s new big boy room!
When we moved into our home late 2022, I was 38 weeks pregnant with my third and eager to move in before the baby arrived. That meant, waiting on some projects I knew I wanted to do. Including decorating my oldest child's bedroom! A few years later and I finally gave my sweet oldest, Perry, a proper big boy room. Here's my advice when decorating a kid's bedroom to ensure it will grow with them for years to come!
1. Picking a color scheme / style
If you're anything like me, you have a Pinterest board or assortment of Instagram images saved to "Kids Bedroom." Maybe it's just me. But I used those images to settle on a style for his room.
For years, I have been saving down Americana themed boy rooms so I knew going with that color scheme would be a tried and true design for me. I wanted a tattersall style rug to give the room a playful, soft base, and I landed on this Tori Rug from Stanton Carpet. From there, I built the rest of the room.
2. Invest in some, save on others
I'm big on finding pieces that will last and stand the test of time that are worth investing in. Then layering in pieces that I already own or that I find at antique shops or off Facebook marketplace.
For this room, the rug and the headboard are investment pieces that anchor the room. The headboard, custom designed with Coley Home, was an important piece of the design puzzle for me. Since Perry's room already had plantation shutters, I didn't plan on doing other window treatments. I knew I wanted to bring color and warmth in with upholstered headboards.
3. Remember, they will be kids
I love good design but I'm also a realistic mom of 3 kids under 6. Things get messy.
I didn't go over the top with wallpaper or expensive bedding or even a new bedside table. Instead, I painted the walls in a flat Sherwin-Williams Nonchalant White making it easy to touchup, selected cute and affordable bedding and found an antique, distressed dresser to place in between the two twin beds since I knew it would be covered in Legos and Hot Wheels.
The lamp and lampshade are from Ballard and the white dresser is a Pottery Barn Kids classic that I've had for years. It's still available online. I get asked a lot of about the mirror, too! I have several mirrors from Winstons Collection, including this pretty navy one in Perry's room.
You can read more of my thoughts on designing a kids' bedroom on the Coley Home blog I was featured in this month!
LITTLE BOY ROOM DECOR
5 Ways to Create a Timeless Nursery
So many memories are made in those first few months, and having a special space to soak it all in really is a dream. Here's what I've learned from studying the pros, and after designing nurseries for my own little ones.
Today we're talking all about nurseries! I have saved so much inspiration over the years, as these sweet little spaces always make me smile. So many memories are made in those first few months, and having a special space to soak it all in really is a dream. Here's what I've learned from studying the pros, and after designing nurseries for my own little ones.
Try A Tonal Look
One designer trick I've learned over the years is to choose one color when you're dressing up a space, from crib skirts to wallpaper. In a nursery, blues, pinks, green or neutrals work really well—and these photos are proof.
Play with Wallpaper
A nursery is a great place to incorporate whimsical wallpaper. Florals and stripes are classic choices, but you can always go with something a little more bold and keep the rest of the space simple. Pair your wallpaper with well-constructed window treatments and your little one's space will strike the right balance between polished and playful.
Frame Murals and Panels
If want the look of wallpaper without the commitment, consider framing a pair of panels or a mural. Paint the walls a complementary color so make it feel cohesive. I like how this option allows the room to easily grow with your child.
Mix in Natural Materials
Whether its a stack of wicker baskets, an antique dresser or bamboo blinds, I like mixing natural materials into a space to help ground it. These materials help add warmth and dimension, especially if you're drenching a room in color otherwise.
Make A Cozy Seating Area
You'll probably spend quite a bit of time in this room, so make sure there's a space designed for those late-night snuggles. I've found the winning combination is a glider, ottoman, side table and light. If you have space, a daybed is a great option, too.
SHOP MY NURSERY PICKS
This Classic Raleigh Home Showcases the Beauty of Blue and White
This classic Raleigh home is proof you can't go wrong with shades of blue and white throughout your home. Here are five rooms where you can incorporate the classic color combination.
Today we're re-sharing inspiration from one of the most-loved Garden & Grace home tours to date. Years later, and the classic Raleigh home still stands the test of time—proof you can't go wrong with shades of blue and white throughout your home. Here are five rooms where you can incorporate the classic color combination.
Living room
A collection of ginger jars on built-in shelves, a pair handsome chinoiserie sofas and fringe-framed throw pillows work together to create a modern interpretation of classic design.
BEDROOM
Used here in a mintier hue—and with pops of pink—this blue primary suite is elegant and relaxing.
POWDER ROOM
A half-bath is the ideal spot to experiment with wallpaper. We love the darker blue floral paper used here, and the light blue painted trim.
BREAKFAST NOOK
Ikat blue and white cushions and woven dining chairs punctuate this playful dining space.
OUTSIDE
Blue cushions bring a nature-inspired pop of color to this white outdoor patio space. A sisal rug and chippendale furniture complete the look.
In the previous post Raleigh-based home builder John Sanders took us on an exclusive tour, and we shared all the details, including specific paint colors for each room. Take the full tour here.
All images are by Garden & Grace. Katherine Connell Design is the main designer with recent additions by Allison Davis Interiors. The landscape design is by Liggett Design Group.
Blue & WHITE TABLETOP INSPIRATION
FOR YOUR CLOSET
