Innocence and personality have returned to children's room decor which has been revolutionised by the artisanal trend, writes Omeshnie Naidoo.
Children's room decor has long been in the clutches of commercially-driven paraphernalia. Saccharine, sweet pink and princesses for girls and well, Lightning McQueen for boys.
While there’s nothing inherently wrong with the stereotypical, generalised themes, the store bought versions lacked any real personality and let’s face it, the props lacked any true design acumen.
This was cookie cutter ‘decor’. The days when you had a nursery, bedroom, study or playroom to create and if it were for a boy you painted it blue and a girl, you went for pink.
You could then furnish the room in one go, with matching separates: The bed, the headboard, the side pedestal, the dresser, desk and maybe a bookshelf.
For baby the cot, the drawers, the feeding chair.The look would be complete with matching curtains, bedding and soft furnishing to match the Disney theme of your choice. It could be Frozen or Minion heaven for your little one!
Mind you, the moment Lightning McQueen fell from favour you would be redecorating. The forgetful linen, would surely have faded by then anyway.
The whole idea sounds kitsch in relation to modern design trends.
Current emphasis on the handmade and artisanal as well as eco-conscious have seen parents refurbish beloved pieces of old family furniture to include into heirloom themed homes. An antique chest of draws that belonged to your mother, with a new lick of chalk paint is a gift to your daughter.
Stripes and other classic children's prints can be layered in the room and in good fabrics can have longevity beyond the cartoon character. Embroidery, crochet, applique and other handwork can add whimsical charm. Think quilts, baskets and wooden, hand-crafted toys.
Rather than store bought prints, vintage posters or hand-painted murals can give the walls a personalised feel.
And there’s no reason why children can’t have luxurious bedding with loads of texture and colour.
It’s time to take the time to create rooms that stimulate the senses and offer comfort to our children, with room enough for them to make it their own.
If you’re looking for inspiration.
* Decorex exhibitors Cait’s Room, Greendot Baby and Little Interiors have much to offer at the Joburg show and can also be found on-line at the individual sites or on www.reedexpoafrica.co.za/decorexblog/.