But if, like me, you’re in the thick of your ‘toys are everywhere’ era and haven’t been able to see the actual carpet beneath the carpet of toys that gobbled up your home some time ago, it could be time to brainstorm some kids’ toy storage ideas that will help you reclaim a sense of order. It can be an overwhelming task, but we’re here to help! 

Whether you’re clawing back your living room or looking for playroom storage ideas that actually keep the room tidy, we’ve got you covered!

1. It doesn’t really matter if toys are everywhere

Let’s normalise toys being everywhere in a happy home filled with little rascals. This is a statement you may not see scrolling through social media, so I say it now in case you feel like your home isn’t up to scratch just because not every cupboard in your home is organised within an inch of its life.

To be frank, I ask myself daily whether waging a war against all of the toys in my home is even worth it. The truth of the matter is that your house is lived in and an oversupply of toys is a privileged problem to have. If you’re fine with toys being out and about, don’t change a thing!  For some reason, I can’t relax when there are things all over the floor and the robotic vacuum mop I rely on to keep my floors tidy can’t handle lots of little obstacles – so these two factors are enough to motivate me to pick up stray toys where I can. 

2. Part ways with outgrown items

The first step to getting kids’s toys to a manageable level is to say goodbye to items your kids no longer play with or that they’ve simply outgrown. Involve your kids in this process, if you can. Learning to let go of possessions is a valuable life lesson, but that it doesn’t make the task any easier, especially if your child is attached or unwilling to say goodbye.

Writing for The Conversation, psychology lecturers Shane Rogers and Natalie Gately of Edith Cowan University give the following tips for helping your child navigate the process: 

• Model the behaviour yourself by showing them how you part with your own possessions.
• If a toy feels like their friend, encourage them to concentrate on other toys that are also special. Let them know that relationships can end, and that’s okay. 
• If a toy has sentimental value, remind them that the memories attached to that item will always stay with them. 
• If a child insists that they might need the item later, reassure them that you can always replace it if needed. But, it probably won’t happen. 

How to help your child let go

If you’re wondering what to do with the toys you no longer need, consider donating them to charity or selling items in good condition on Facebook Marketplace. 

3. Get a chuck-it bucket

Breathe a sigh of relief because the hard part is over. Now it’s time to create systems that help you stay on top of the toys worth keeping. Picture this: it’s the end of the day, you’ve battled the kids into bed and now it’s time to get yourself into bed … but wait, toys all over the living room is not the first thing you want to see in the morning. So what do you do? Arm yourself with a chuck-it bucket.

A chuck-it bucket can be a lightweight bucket, laundry hamper, woven basket or eve large canvas sack and the beauty of it is that all you need to do is grab it and start chucking any visible toys into it. It’s low-effort way to clear a room of toys quickly without having to muster up the energy to put everything back in its designated place. Devote one evening a week to putting all of the accumulated toys back where they belong, or, even better, delegate this job to the kids!

Toy storage baskets to shop

01

Loire round basket, Freedom

$71.95

If your child’s main play area also happens to be the living room, splurge on toy storage solutions that blend into your existing decor. A woven basket is a great option for traditional, coastal or Hamptons style homes, and this structured design from Freedom has two sturdy handles which make it great for tossing toys into at the end of the day. 

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02

Openook XL rope and water hyacinth basket with handle

$12, Big W

Woven baskets can cost a pretty penny so, if you’re on a budget, head over to Big W. This design is made from natural materials and has a wonderful contrast detailing around the base for added interest and is only $12! It’s a steal if you need to purchase multiple baskets to contain toy chaos across several rooms in the house. 

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4. Work with what you’ve got

Before rushing out to buy cult kids toy storage furniture unit (I’m talking about IKEA’s Kallax and Trofast units; if you know you know) see whether you can save cash by freeing up storage space in furniture pieces you already own. 

This could involve donating the pile of DVDs taking up valuable real estate in the TV unit or stacking books slightly differently so you can turn one row of your bookshelf into a toy zone. Is there room under your sofa or under your child’s bed that could accommodate a slimline toy storage crate? Could you clear a shelf in a console or credenza for stashing away toys? Can you sacrifice one kitchen drawer for accommodating your child’s playthings?

Look for storage opportunities in unexpected places, too. Is there a corner of the garage you could use for keeping excess toys at bay? Is there a spot in the backyard you can set up a small store-out shed? If outdoor space is limited, a weather-proof outdoor storage box could also be a good option.

5. Toy storage furniture

If investing in toy storage furniture is a must, look for pieces that are easy for your child to open and close, have ample storage for both large and smaller items, can be reconfigured and repurposed as your child grows and suits the look and feel of your home. Multi-purpose toy storage furniture – think a desk with a hutch, or a table with hidden lego storage can also help prevent your home feeling cluttered.

Two of the most popular pieces of furniture in the kids toy storage category are IKEA’s Trofast and Kallax units – beloved worldwide for their affordability, customisability and versatility. But they’re not the only players! 

Kids toy storage furniture to shop

04

Kids’ Willow 3 drawer toy storage

$149.99 ( usually $169.99), Temple & Webster

If you’re looking for toy storage that actually blends in with your ordinary décor then don’t look past this white Hamptons style storage unit from Temple & Webster. Plus, you can simply add some cushions and the storage unit becomes a cosy seat for reading stories.

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06

Scallop bookshelf

$750, J&Furniture

Sydney-based furniture-makers Jay and Sue of J&Furniture create gorgeous custom furniture pieces, and this scalloped bookshelf is no exception. These shelves are made to order, and while the standard size is 100cm (w), 30cm (d) and 75cm (h), you can customise the unit’s dimensions and colours to suit your home. Colour samples are available upon request. 

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07

Willow Toy Box in sandstone by Tasman Eco

$399.99, The Memo

Toyboxes are fantastic for storing medium to large-sized toys. The features that set this toybox apart are: well-crafted, made completely from pine timber and comes with a 2-year warranty. It can also serve as extra seating, which is great if you’re planning to pop it in your child’s bedroom or in the living room. 

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08

Theo Kids bookshelf and toy drawer organiser

$183.99 (usually $299.99), Mocka

Need a storage unit that can do it all? This versatile piece is a bookshelf, an open display shelf and has two bottom drawers on castors your kids can move around as required. It is crafted in a matte finish to give a touch of sophistication to any child’s bedroom or playroom.

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09

Paddington bed frame with gas lift storage in cement

$959 (usually $1,199), Snooze

One way to increase the storage in your home is to invest in furniture pieces with hidden storage. This padded bed frame has a gas strut lift base which is perfect for hiding away toys as well as extra linen or winter blankets. Made from sustainably sourced timber and available in a range of colours including: ivory, grey and anthracite. 

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11

Garden locker shed in off-white

$575 (usually $908), Easy Shed

If you’ve exhausted all indoor storage options, the only way to go is … out! Compact garden sheds can help boost your home’s storage potential and keep bulky toys like bikes, scooters and cars out of the weather and out of your home when they’re not being used. This compact shed measures 2.08m x 0.97m and is available in zinc, off white, smooth cream, mist green, slate grey and monument.

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6. Keep small toys together

Now it’s just a matter of keeping all of the little bits and bobs together and organised. Small storage baskets or stackable bamboo trays can help keep cupboards in order. Don’t limit yourself to the storage section when coming up with your plan of attack. 

Clear makeup bags with zips, for example, are great for keeping smaller items like Lego, small dolls, dollhouse furniture, puzzle pieces and more organised yet visible when your kids go looking for them. Fishing tackle boxes can work as craft stations for beading projects, craft supplies, play makeup and Lego organisers (plus the handle is great for pulling them in and out of cupboards). 

Toy organisation ideas to shop

12

Clear organiser by Anko

$16, Target

Clear, zip-up bags are a game-changer when it comes to keeping like items together. Just place them in the bag, zip it up and put it in the cupboard. Your children will be able to see exactly what they’re looking for and grab it without disturbing the remaining contents of the cabinet. 

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13

Move trio cosmetic bag set in clear/silver

$20, Target

Puzzle pieces, play makeup, doll clothing and accessories, Lego pieces – this set of three clear bags is great for keeping all manner of toy flotsam and jetsam together. 

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14

Plano 6102 two-tray tackle box

$39.99, BCF

Many childhood hobbies like making friendship bracelets, beading jewellery, making origami or scrapbooking require small bits and pieces that need to be stored thoughtfully for the activity to run smoothly. A fishing tackle box with lots of little compartments and an expanding tray is a great way to keep these items organised and accessible. When your child outgrows their hobby, simply repurpose as a toolbox or … a fishing tackle box!

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15

The Cooks Collective stackable 2-piece set in bamboo

$29.98 (usually $59.95), Myer

The pantry organisation section is another great place to search for creative toy storage ideas. This stackable bamboo set is durable, aesthetically pleasing and easy for little ones to stick their hands into and get what they need.

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17

Play&Go toy storage bag

$69.95, The Memo

Are you the kind of parent who takes toys wherever you go? Then you’ll love this toy storage idea. It’s a toy storage bag that opens out entirely flat, becoming an on-the-go playmat. It’s great for toys like building blocks or magnetic tiles, because once your kids have finished with them, you simply pull on the rope and whoosh, everything is packed away and in a handy carry bag you can throw into the car or cupboard. 

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7. How to stay on top of toy clutter

Now that everything is in it’s place and you’ve showed all those toys who’s boss, it’s time to think about ways to slow the flow of toys that come into your home and maintain order. 

Here are all the things I’m trying to implement: 

• Be purposeful with the toys you buy and encourage kids to record items they want on a wishlist that they can pull out for their birthday or Christmas.
• Rather than buying new toys, consider hosting a ‘toy swap’ amongst close friends or family so items can be shared between cousins, friends and so forth.
• Join a toy library and borrow toys, rather than buying them.
• If you’re lucky enough to have really generous family and friends who make it their mission to spoil your kids, consider creating a gift registry using a platform like MyRegistry.com so they can clearly see exactly which items your child really wants and needs. 
• Set up a savings or investment account for your child and encourage family and friends to contribute to that rather than buying physical possessions. 
• Encourage your kids to take part in an annual toy declutter. 

The post Storage solutions that will stop kids’ toys taking over the house appeared first on Home Beautiful.

As you’d expect, the final result completely bucks the all-neutral trend, instead combining playful plaids with dinosaur-print sheets and plush cushions with a menagerie of stuffed animals. “Who can go past a snuggly, plush elephant?” says Mitch. 

“Our Big W kids play area is exactly about that, lot’s of zones and areas for kids to play, have fun and learn about the world,” says Mark. “Seeing it all come together made us eager to invite the grandkids over to dive in and explore every corner!” 

Here, Mitch and Mark share 5 tips for styling a bedroom that will spark imaginations, stay relatively tidy and won’t cost a bomb to recreate. 

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A post shared by Mitch and Mark (@mitchandmark)

1. Mix and match

If you’re a design-savvy parent, you’ll know how difficult it can be to create a bedroom your kids love but that feels in keeping with the rest of your home. Dinosaur sheets may not be your first pick, but for a Jurassic Park-obsessed child, they can mean the world. It may be tempting to style busy sheets with something plain, but Mitch takes an entirely different tack – adding even more pattern to the mix. “Geometrics make [the bed] not only fun, but a little bit stylish,” says Mitch. The key to successfully clashing patterns is to select fabrics in similar colours.

2. Stylish storage

Keeping kids’ rooms tidy is a never-ending battle, which is why incorporating toy storage into the design from the get-go is so important. “To pack away the kids’ toys we’ve added the Opennook rope baskets and storage cubes,” says Mitch. “They’re practical and very attractive.” 

Bookshelves, cube storage and woven baskets are all ways to keep toys contained when they’re not in use. 

3. Let there be light

One of the most overlooked elements when styling a kids’ room is the lighting. Including a variety of lights can help support your child’s bedtime routine. A friendly night-light can keep monsters at bay, while dimmable lamps can help signal to your child that it’s time to wind down for the night. “Lighting is important and we’ve added a touch of fun with amazing night lights,” says Mark.

4. Create zones

The key to creating a bedroom your kids will really love is to divide it into distinct zones. Of course the primary zone will be for sleeping, but an otherwise empty corner can be transformed into a reading nook with little more than a comfy beanbag, a bookshelf and a reading lamp. “We’re loving the beanbag in the floral print,” says Mitch.

It’s also a great idea to keep the centre of the room clear so there’s plenty of space to spread out and play. A child-sized table and chairs is multi-purpose and can be great for colouring in or hosting tea parties.

5. Shop beyond the kids’ section

Finally, think about how the room will evolve as your child grows. Even though Mitch and Mark have packed the room with soft toys, they’re supported by a collection of versatile throw cushions sourced from Big W’s main homewares range. “We’ve used more sophisticated cushions with the soft toys,” says Mark. 

So next time you’re shopping for decor to makeover your child’s room, step outside the kids’ section and look for basic foundational elements that will provide a stylish backdrop for many years to come. 

Shop the look

01

K-D Flannelette sheet set in dino

From $35, Big W

Know a dinosaur-obsessed kid? They’ll love these sheets. Not only do they feature a colourful dinosaur print, but they’re also made from 100% Australian cotton, brushed for extra softness and warmth. This set comes with a flat sheet, a fitted sheet and a matching pillowcase. 

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02

Openook 8-cube storage shelf and foldable storage cube

$55 (storage shelf), $6 (storage cube), Big W

Cube shelves are beloved for a reason. They’re versatile, can be used for storing books or toys and foldable inserts can keep all of the clutter well-hidden. Placed on its side, it also becomes a console where you can display special toys, books and even place a table lamp.

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03

Keezi 4-tiered kids bookshelf

$79.95, Big W

Kids books can really pile up. Keep them organised, on display and within easy reach with this tiered bookshelf. The best part? It has two bottom drawers for even more toy storage. Brilliant.

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04

K-D alphabet round rug in cream

$25, Big W

The best way to create visually distinct zones in a single room is to use strategically-placed rugs. This round alphabet rug is the perfect basis for a cosy reading corner.

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05

Brilliant Basics teddy fleece blanket, single

$12, Big W

Layer up with comfy layers and cosy blankets in time for winter. By night this teddy blanket will keep your child toasty and warm and by day it can serve as an indoor cubby canopy. Warning: it’s so soft you may be tempted to steal it for yourself!

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06

Somersault snuggly plush elephant

$12, Big W

“Who can go past a snuggly plush elephant?” says Mitch. Need we say more? Made from soft and cosy material, this plushie is perfect for naptime or playtime.

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07

Openook tufted cushion in forget me not

$18, Big W

It’s a good idea to shop beyond the kids’ section when designing a child’s room. As Mitch and Mark demonstrate, soft toys come and go but a beautiful throw cushion is eternal. We love this tufted design for it calming colour as well as the texture it lends to a space.

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The post Mitch and Mark create ace bedroom with Big W’s new kids’ collection appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Today, I have a toddler, and virtually nothing of the room I originally created remains. Neutral colour scheme? Out the window. Light and airy window furnishings? Totally inadequate. Top-of-the-range Scandi-style cot? Dismantled. Musical mobile to help my little one nod off to sleep? Well, it had the total opposite effect. Despite my best efforts, I’d designed a pretty nursery that just wasn’t very practical. 

Going back in time to do over my nursery isn’t possible. But what I can do is pass on the lessons I’ve learned to other expecting parents, so they can hopefully spend their hard-earned money on baby items that are actually worth it and save their energy for the parts of raising a newborn that really matter. Here, I’m sharing all the practical nursery design tips I wish someone had given me prior to the arrival of my daughter, and I spoke to two design-savvy mums Suz Hennessy, founder of The Muse Edition and Alexandra Tanya-Weller, co-founder of Miss Amara – to share their advice, too. 

It’s important to keep safety front of mind when setting up a baby nursery. For more information, visit: 

• Red Nose
• Raising Children
• NSW Fair Trading’s guide to toppling furniture

Start with a safe sleep space

1. You may not use the nursery as much as you think

First thing’s first, take the pressure off. You may feel like you’re running out of time to prepare the baby’s room before they arrive, but here’s the thing: you probably won’t use the nursery as much as you think (at least for the first few months anyway). Your baby may want to be close to you at all times, and Red Nose recommends room sharing for at least the first six to 12 months anyway. So take a deep breath, get as much of the nesting done as you desire, but know that you have plenty of time to get things done and it’s so so important to prioritise rest, self care and prepping nutritious and tasty meals to stash in the freezer for when baby arrives.

2. Room to grow

Decorating a baby’s room is fun – you can be playful with colour and pattern and even themes. But to avoid having to do-over the room every few months, keep the permanent aspects of the room simple enough to grow with your child. “As a first time parent it’s easy to get carried away with a specific nursery theme that might not transition well as your child grows,” says Suz. “You’re not just designing a nursery – you’re shaping a space that will grow and change just as beautifully as your child does.”

“We chose a calm and neutral colour palette for our nursery,” says Suz. “This created a peaceful backdrop, balancing the vibrant energy of children’s toys without making the space feel too busy or overwhelming.”

Then it’s a matter of bringing in a fun hero piece, says Suz. “It could be a unique rug, a striking piece of furniture, or a colour you really love.”

3. It’s ok to just have the basics

House sizes are shrinking and the cost of living is rising, so if you’re feeling the pinch that comes with accumulating and storing all of the baby gear Instagram ads say you need then I’m here to tell you that it’s ok to take a step back and prioritise the absolute basics. 

After all, so many baby accessories have a limited lifespan before bub completely outgrows them. Baby bassinet? Only good for about 3 months. Free-standing baby bath? I couldn’t wait to wheel that bulky thing out of my life courtesy of Facebook Marketplace. Purpose-built change table? Handy, but soon enough you’ll have a toddler on your hands and you’ll wish you’d just selected an ordinary set of drawers instead. Think long-term with your baby purchases and your hip pocket will thank you. There’ll also be a lot less decluttering to do down the track. 

Alexandra looked to Facebook Marketplace for bargains on baby essentials. “We bought a beautiful crib and change table but both were preloved and found on Marketplace. Babies grow so fast so preloved can be your best friend. The idea that you get to breathe new life into an item another baby loved and used is just all the more special – bite marks and all!”

Rather than buying everything you think you’ll need, it’s not such a bad idea to start with just the absolute essentials and then buy (or rent, or borrow) any additional items you feel will make life easier once bub arrives.

4. Never underestimate the importance of storage

If you don’t end up using the nursery for the first few months, beware: it can quickly become a dumping ground for everything from outgrown clothing to unused bed linen, toys you’re saving for when the baby is a bit older, clothing you’re saving for when baby is a bit older and accessories you no longer need. When the time comes to use the room, you’ll feel overwhelmed by the task of decluttering it. Prevent a pile-up by ensuring everything has a place ahead of time. 

• Where/how will you store clothing baby has grown out of? 
• Do you have room to store large baby equipment such, e.g. standalone baths, bath supports, car capsules, pram bassinets and bassinets?

Suz says a lack of storage and the arrival of her second son inspired her to create a series of beautiful, storage baskets for The Muse Edition. “Storage was a top priority,” she says, “Our toy storage baskets were strategically placed around the house: one by the armchair for muslin cloths, another for stuffed animals and more in the living space. It’s amazing how the right baskets can transform clutter into a design feature, blending functionality with a touch of style.”

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A post shared by Designer Play Mats, Pram Liners and More (@themuseedition)

5. Do a sound check

Babies may not need complete silence to fall asleep (which is why white noise machines have become so popular) but there’s a big difference between gentle background noise and sudden, inconsistent sounds that can wake a baby you’ve only just managed to get to sleep (after what seems like hours of rocking and singing lullabies). Here are some of the ways to reduce noise in the nursery: 

• Grease door hinges to prevent squeaks
• Familiarise yourself with your air-conditioner’s ‘Quiet’ mode and consider setting up Wifi control because remote beeping sounds will drive you up the walls! 
• It’s easier to quietly sneak out of a room if the flooring is soft. If you don’t have carpeted floors, opt for a soft, plush rug that will help absorb sound and provide added insulation to the room. 
• Check reviews on baby monitors – mine was great, but it the camera lens made a loud “click” sound every time the lighting in the room changed. It also made an obscenely loud beeping noise every time the monitor screen ran out of battery or became disconnected. 

6. An armchair is just the beginning

You might be wondering ‘Do I even need a nursing chair?’ The answer is yes, yes you do. Spare no expense for a chair that is both comfortable and stylish. I spent countless hours, night and day, glued to my armchair, holding, feeding, and doing storytime with my daughter. Mine was just a simple armchair with a pair of comfy armrests, but something with a matching footstool and a headrest will also provide extra comfort on days you really need it. 

But don’t stop with just the armchair. Think of the nursery armchair as a rest station for you, too. Get a little side table so you can set down your phone, water bottle and snacks. Get a tablet or phone stand so you can binge your favourite show during feeds and set up a hands-free voice assistant so you can say ‘Google, play the latest episode of The Kardashians on Disney+’ without having to put bub down.

7. Sunlight is the enemy

If you’re an interior design lover, you’ll know that natural light is revered above all else. But not so much in a baby nursery. “When you become a slave to a nap schedule, you learn that sunlight is the enemy,” says Alexandra. “The first thing that happened when getting assistance from a sleep coach was having blackout blinds suctioned to the window.” 

Some babies do just fine sleeping in a bright room. Others, who tend to get distracted or riled up can benefit from a cool, dark room to help signal that it’s time to wind down and sleep. Suction cup blackouts are a great last-minute and travel-friendly solution but investing in good quality window coverings from the get-go will set you up for sleep success. 

Even though I already had blinds in my nursery, I found that way too much sunlight was creeping in around the edges, so for me the solution was to install a set of both sheer and blackout curtains.

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A post shared by Alexandra Schmitt Norwood (@alexandrasnorwood)

8. Decorate from the ground up

Something nobody tells you before you become a parent is just how much time you’ll be spending on the floor. You’re on the floor for tummy time, nappy changes and playing as well as the not-so-occasional rough night when it’s 3am, you’re exhausted and lying on the rug next to the cot holding bub’s hand through the bars, reassuring them so they can drift on back to sleep. So don’t make the mistake I did by putting in a sisal rug. Sure, it looked great, but it was rough, scratchy and hard. 

Alexandra says she switched out the rug in her baby’s room a number of times. “I have learnt after all these years that children are the pickiest when it comes to texture and comfort underfoot, so having something lush and soft underneath their little feet was a must. At the moment, we have a rug that’s on the spongier, bouncier side, which makes playtime safe and enjoyable when most of the time we’re down on the ground playing.”

So don’t underestimate the importance of a good floor covering and if you are getting a rug, opt for something soft and cushiony, and something that can be washed easily, too.

9. Calm lighting

So you’ve created darkness, now you need to find a way to add back just the right amount of lighting so you can safely get around the room and ward off monsters when you need to. “We incorporated beautiful lamps and filtered mood lighting,” says Alexandra. “The filtered lighting sets the whimsical tone and adds a glow that we love.” 

One item I splurged on during a bout of extreme sleep deprivation was a Nodiee Sound Machine. While I only used it for white noise for a short period of time, it is one item I still use daily – for the dimmable, multi-coloured light function. You can also control it remotely via a Smartphone app, set it up to respond to voice commands and create a lighting schedule that’s in sync with your bub. It’s also extremely useful during the toddler phase, creating security for a little one who is afraid of the dark.

Nursery decor you’ll actually use

01

Large foam play mat in terrazzo/weave, The Muse Edition

$199.99

Suz says a playmat is “an absolute necessity.” Playmats come in handy for all sorts of things. In the early days “it provided a soft spot for post-bath tummy time, and playful moments,” she says. As your child grows it will also provide a soft landing space for a little one learning to walk. The surface is also easy to wipe clean.

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02

Nuage Interiors Cloud rocker and ottoman in cream, The Memo

$1980

A comfy armchair with a matching footstool is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. “If the Nuage Boucle Armchair was on the market back when I was preparing my nursery, it would have been a dream addition,” says Suz. “Not only does it radiate sophistication, but it’s also wonderfully practical – perfect for a nursery and versatile enough to look at home in any room of our home as our needs changed.” 

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03

Logan beige and ivory abstract checkered washable rug, Miss Amara

From $199

A soft, cosy rug will make your baby’s nursery a comfortable and calm place to be. Accidents happen, so to ensure the room stays pristine, it’s a good idea to invest in a washable rug. This design from Miss Amara is available in an on-trend beige colourway but is still fun enough to appeal to kids. 

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04

Monochrome Natives I wallpaper in nude, Urban Road

From $375

One item Alexandra splurged on when decorating her son’s nursery was wallpaper. “Wallpaper really sets the tone for the whole space,” she says. Stick to soft neutral colours and classic wallpaper prints for a room that will grow with your child. We love this design from Urban Road which features a collection of native Australian flora and is available in navy, smoke, olive, mint, khaki and nude.

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05

Universal 6 drawer chest V23 in almond, Boori

$1099.95

Storage is essential, and a sturdy chest of drawers is great for storing everything from clothing to nappies and more. Placing a changing pad on top will mean you can use it as a change table in the early days, but adapt its use as needed. There are plenty of optional extras you can use to evolve this piece over its lifetime, including a super cute bookshelf / hutch to store your child’s keepsakes and budding book collection. 

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06

Adairs ‘Safari Friends’ printed basket

$29.99

When there are toys, nappies, blankets, burp cloths and spare outfits to contain, stylish storage baskets are your best friend. This basket features easy to grab-and-go handles, a muted, neutral design and a fun checkered interior.

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07

Nodiee Sleep Assist Smart Pro, Nodiee

$134.95

It’s a sound machine and a night light that can be controlled from your phone. Sounds simple enough, but there’s a reason this night light has almost 2000 positive reviews. It’s portable, powered by a USB cord, and is great from the newborn phase (it will get plenty of use as a breastfeeding light) right through to the toddler phase. Some adults even swear by the white noise to get a peaceful night’s sleep. 

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The post 9 baby nursery ideas you won’t read anywhere else appeared first on Home Beautiful.

“Diamonds are made under pressure, and this is one shimmering diamond,” said Darren Palmer as he studied both rooms with fellow judges Shaynna Blaze and Marty Fox.

The trio were blown away by both of the rooms which managed to be a) highly appealing to the targeted demographic: kids, b) sophisticated and high-end in style and c) totally in step with the rest of the home’s serene Japandi aesthetic. But that wasn’t all Darren had to say. “This is probably the most sophisticated kids’ bedroom we’ve seen thus far. It is absolutely chic as … heck.” 

Creating a kids’ bedroom or teen bedroom when the brief is ‘high-end luxury’ can be quite the challenge, but this week, Steph and Gian nailed it with flying colours. Here’s how you can recreate the look in your own home.

Shop Steph and Gian’s winning kids’ bedrooms

01

The Lorne hanging chair, The Block Shop

$599.95

Judge Shaynna Blaze loved the hanging rattan chair Steph and Gian included in their kids’ bedroom. She said the chair added that “little bit of sophistication in that beautiful, fun, elegant, childish manner.” The chair comes with sisal rope to hang the chair in your space at any height.

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02

Picture ledge, The Block Shop

$140

This versatile little shelf will add style and warmth to a kids’ bedroom. Style it up with a trailing indoor plant and craft supplies or do as Steph and Gian have done by using it to display inspiring childrens’ books. Pairs perfectly with the butcher’s paper hanger. 

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03

Butcher’s paper hanger in brown, The Block Shop

$70

Jemmervale Designs’ butcher’s paper hanger is a great way to introduce crafting into a kids’ bedroom without interrupting a chic, neutral colour scheme. It is made from Tasmanian oak and high quality natural leather.

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04

Chelsea velvet beanbag in olive green, The Block Shop

$499.95

Every kids’ room needs somewhere comfy for kids to plonk down and read a beloved book. This Chelsea bean bag serves the purpose perfectly, featuring a soft velvet cover and relaxed yet structured shape. 

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05

Onito tray with straight edges, Freedom

$19.97

Even Steph and Gian’s wardrobe styling was on point, with black catch-all trays from Freedom used in the shared kids’ bedroom. This tray is handmade from rattan and is super simple to clean with a damp microfibre cloth. 

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06

Little People BIG DREAMS books, Booktopia

$18.25

The Little People BIG DREAMS series of kids’ books is so good. These bite-sized stories are inspiring and are accompanied by beautiful illustrations you’ll be proud to display in your child’s room. We love: Maria Montessori, Zaha Hadid, Dolly Parton and the exact book we spotted in Steph and Gian’s room: Steve Jobs.

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07

Boori ‘Thetis’ square table in truffle/barley, Baby Bunting

$299

Activity tables are a must-have for any kids’ room or play room. This table, in truffle and barley white, is sure to fit into the scheme of any child’s room, whether it be multi-coloured or completely neutral. 

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08

Magic mineral wool rug in blue, grey, gold and copper, The Block Shop

$999

Not sure about you, but I was obsessed with how cosy the floor rugs Steph and Gian chose for the bedrooms looked. This wool rug with tones of blue, grey, gold and copper tied all of the room’s colours together and insulates the floor against Melbourne’s chilly winters. 

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09

Vintage linen fringed cushion in tobacco, Aura Home

$69.95

Curves have been a huge theme on The Block this year, and it’s important to find accessories that match! Steph and Gian styled their kids’ room with a pair of round cushions which add softness, interest and effortless symmetry. 

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10

Olive French linen coverlet set, Temple & Webster

From $319

A good-quality coverlet can quickly transform the look and feel of any bedroom. This olive green option is incredibly soft and is perfect for adding extra warmth to a bed in winter, or using as a light bedspread in summer. 

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11

‘Thales’ boucle bed with curved headboard in cream white, Luxo Living

$359

Steph and Gian’s bedroom featured a curved bedhead from Forty Winks – but it isn’t available online. But that’s ok, because we found this incredible dupe in a luxe grey linen fabric for under $500 (Queen size)! Also available in single and king size. 

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12

‘Celine’ coverlet, Provincial Home Living

$249.95

Steph and Gian used the Celine coverlet in two different colours to create beds that were ‘same but different’, a touch Shaynna loved. Available in white and cloud and white and ink. Matching Euro and standard pillowcases available separately. 

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13

‘Serenity’ ribbed wide headboard, LoungeLovers

$899

By using a single headboard, Steph and Gian gave a shared kids’ bedroom an elevated, sleek look. You can recreate the look with this ribbed king headboard from LoungeLovers, which also happens to be available in grey and light grey.

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14

The Bookseller’s Apprentice, Big W

$12

Books are magical to read, but they also have the ability to bring any room to life. A child or teen’s room is no different, and we love the metallic touch the cover of this book will bring to a space. As for the story – well that’s set in Melbourne in 1871 and is written by Amelia Mellor whose historical fiction is richly detailed and accurate. 

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15

‘Miffy’ sitting corduroy soft toy in white, The Iconic

$39.99

There were so many cute accessories included in Steph and Gian’s winning rooms that we couldn’t possibly list them all here. But one standout soft toy we spotted was this cute-as-a-buttin corduroy Miffy. Designed in The Netherlands and handcrafted from 100% polyester, this is a toy that adds both whimsy and style to a room.

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The post Recreate The Block’s winning kids’ bedrooms appeared first on Home Beautiful.