Whether you’ve just moved into a new house or you feel like renovating your current one, it’s natural to feel excited over the prospect of decorating and designing the living spaces and bedrooms to transform your house into a home for you and your family. 

For every head of the house or lead designer in a house designing project, there’s one room in particular that they should always pay close attention to—the children’s bedroom.

In many Filipino homes, the reality is that children often have to share bedrooms due to space constraints or the dynamics of belonging to a large family. Regardless of why it happens, the fact remains that sharing a room might not be a dream scenario for all youngsters. However, thoughtfully designing the room can transform this necessity into an experience that fosters companionship and creates lasting memories between siblings as they grow older and closer. 

So, whether your kids are boy-boy, girl-girl, or girl-boy combinations, one thing is sure: the design of their shared room matters. Personal space and privacy take on novel dimensions when individuals share a room, especially involving siblings of different genders. A good bedroom design can strategically balance individuality with intimacy, making the room a haven for each child. 

1. Prioritize Your Kids’ Safety 

Safety is paramount when designing a room for children, more so when it’s a shared space that’s sure to be bustling with young energy as they play together in their shared space. To prevent accidents and slip-ups, it would be best to select furniture that’s rounded or beveled, stable, and made from non-toxic materials that are safe for children. Always double-check those floating shelves, and make sure that bookshelves are anchored securely to the wall. You should also ensure that potential hazards, from open power outlets and hanging blind cords to loose furniture screws and cluttered floors, are mitigated. 

When designing the children’s bedroom, use corner protectors on furniture edges, secure loose cables, and install window guards for added protection. These measures provide an extra layer of security, giving peace of mind to parents and guardians and reassuring them that they will always be safe no matter how rough the horseplay may ensue in the children’s bedroom.

2. Maximize the Space Available 

When considering designing a shared bedroom for siblings, making the most of limited space is an art form, especially if it accommodates three or more children. The beds usually occupy the most space in any room, so it’s better to use bunk beds or trundle beds as these are excellent space savers. Multifunctional furniture, such as foldable sofa beds or coffee tables that can double as a drawing table, can also help maximize space.

If you’re brainstorming ways to maximize the shared room to leave more space for play and movement, consider looking into under-bed or overhead storage, as these can help declutter the room and store the children’s toys, books, and other belongings. Moreover, pocket organizers hanging on the side of bunk beds could serve as nifty spaces for storing bedtime books or smaller toys. This approach saves room and helps teach organizational skills to youngsters. 

3. Incorporate Flexible Designs for Growing Needs

One of the most important things to remember when designing a shared bedroom for young siblings is that children grow and evolve, and the room should accommodate their growing needs. This might include looking for convertible furniture, so keep an eye out for a bed frame for sale that can convert from a toddler bed to a regular-sized bed. Also, consider purchasing an expandable desk with adjustable heights or extendable surfaces that can adapt to your child’s maturing requirements and activities, whether drawing, studying, or crafting. Such flexible furniture offers a room that “grows” with children.

Choosing a color scheme that can adapt with age would also be wise. Neutral walls can act as a canvas, allowing decor elements to be changed as the children mature. For instance, wall decals are an excellent, less-permanent solution that can easily be replaced over the years, making the room ever-adaptive to your children as they grow up. 

The significance of flexibility in room design is manifold. For one, it’s economical in the long run as you don’t need to keep replacing furniture. It also makes age transitions smoother for the children. 

4. Create Personal Spaces Within the Shared Room

The challenge in designing a shared bedroom lies in balancing communal and personal spaces. Remember, children are also entitled to their personal space, even if they have to share a room with their siblings. Moreover, no two siblings are the same. Each child is unique and has their interests and skills. Bearing this in mind when designing a room that caters to all its occupants’ needs is essential. 

Children sharing a bedroom should still have a sense of ownership of their personal space, a sanctuary that’s uniquely theirs within the larger shared area. To achieve this, consider designating areas within the room that cater specifically to each child’s interests and activities. If one sibling is an aspiring artist, you could set up a small art station equipped with an easel, paint, and sketching materials. Conversely, if another sibling is an avid reader, a dedicated reading nook with a comfy chair, adjustable lighting, and proximity to a bookshelf can be the perfect retreat. 

Design tricks can help delineate these personal zones even in confined spaces. For instance, area rugs with different patterns or textures can visually separate one area from another. Similarly, collapsible room dividers can offer temporary privacy and be folded away for playtime and activities between siblings. These unique personal spaces within the shared room will allow each child to fully express themselves, building a sense of self that will benefit them throughout their lives. It also helps siblings appreciate each other’s individualities, creating a familial environment that values unity and personal identity.

5. Optimize Storage for Everyday Efficiency

Good storage is essential but often overlooked when designing shared bedrooms between younger kids. Filipino homes laden with hand-me-downs and sentimental items require intelligent storage solutions that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. For this, built-in cabinets can be a lifesaver, and decorative baskets can add a stylish flair. 

For growing young kids, storage is a must. As children grow, they will likely collect more and more clothes, toys, and belongings over the years, so it is better to include “future” storage spaces than to limit the storage solutions to the present day. Make decluttering a monthly routine by encouraging your children to donate or recycle old toys and other items to save space in their shared areas efficiently. 

6. Enhance Light and Ventilation for Balanced Comfort

Good lighting and proper ventilation are crucial in any living space but are especially vital in a shared room where kids will play, study, and sleep for years. Hence,  give your children options even when it comes to the type of lighting. Consider looking into layered lighting options, including ambient, task, and accent lighting, as these can adapt to different needs and moods. For example, soft ambient light can be calming for bedtime, while task lighting in study areas can enhance focus and concentration.

Ventilation is another crucial factor designers, and parents should never forget to consider when designing a shared bedroom for young siblings. In countries with warm, tropical climates like the Philippines, a well-ventilated room can make a difference in comfort. Install ceiling fans or air conditioning units to evenly distribute calm and soothing air to different room parts. Also, regularly allow natural air to circulate into the space through open windows for added ventilation and to reduce energy costs. 

7. Choose Engaging Yet Calming Colors and Themes

Colors can evoke emotions and set the mood for any room in a house. In a shared bedroom, striking a balance between engaging and calming colors can be challenging. To simplify this task, consider combining soft pastels for a calming atmosphere with brighter, bolder colors for stimulation and playfulness.

Themes can be another way to harmonize individual tastes. For example, a nautical theme can incorporate varying shades of blue, offering a coherent yet diverse palette that appeals to the different personalities mixing in the same room. However, involve the children in choosing colors or themes, as it’s their space. Provide them with your color options and learn more about their taste. You can meet in the middle and create a color combination that will satisfy both parties. 

8. Involve Your Kids in the Design Process

Last but not least, make designing the room a family project. Involving children in the design decisions can be a fun and educational experience for them. It’s also an excellent way for parents and children to spend time together as they transform a simple, bare room into a cozy, fun-packed bedroom for the kids. 

Let each child have a say in certain aspects of the room, such as choosing a decorative pillow or a wall art piece. Doing so empowers them to express their individuality and teaches them the value of collaboration and compromise—essential life skills that will serve them well in any shared living situation and prepare them for living with their other siblings. 

Designing a Sibling Sanctuary 

Designing a shared bedroom for siblings is a meticulous and thoughtful process that requires ample planning. How you transform your children’s space into a secure environment for play, rest, and family bonding can significantly impact their childhood. With these tips, you can build a safe space for your kids that reflects their growing needs and personal preferences—a bedroom where they can make cherished memories.