Kids room into tween dream space - 5 simple upgrades

As children grow, their tastes and needs change. My youngest’s room was long overdue for an upgrade. So we spent a weekend transforming it from a kid’s cluttered space into a tween dream space. Here are the five practical changes we made that balanced both functionality and style.

1. Maximize Storage with IKEA Kallax Baskets

He already had the larger Kallax unit but I chose to swap it for a smaller one, and updated it with new grey wicker storage baskets. It is the perfect way to hide all the toys and small bits that don’t need to go on display. These baskets slid right into the shelves and instantly made the space look cleaner, while still keeping everything accessible.

Tip: Choose neutral-toned baskets or fun pops of colour that match the room’s aesthetic to keep things cohesive.

2. Install a Wall of Shelves for Books and Treasures

Tweens love to showcase their favourite things. From books to collectibles, having a dedicated space to display treasured items can really personalize a room. I opted to fit an entire wall with shelves, giving plenty of room for books and those cherished items that deserve to be on display. It can also be altered if needed to add more shelves at a later date, with the simple hook in brackets.

Tip: Mix up the shelf arrangement with varying heights to create visual interest.

3. Swap Out the Old Wardrobe for a Sleek Fitted Hanging Rail

Gone are the days of the rickety wardrobe that seemed to take up unnecessary space. Instead, we installed a fitted hanging rail in a recessed alcove. This not only made the room feel bigger but also gave easier access to their clothes without rummaging through a cluttered wardrobe.

Tip: Use slimline hangers to maximize space on the rail and keep the area looking tidy.

4. Upgrade the Bed and Comfort with a Simba Mattress Topper

One of the most significant changes was swapping the cabin bed for a full-size double bed. We already had this one, so it was an easy swap. We did however, add a Simba mattress Hybrid Topper and Hybrid Pillow to upgrade the sleep experience, making it feel like a brand new bed!

Tip: If space is a concern, consider utilizing the space under the bed. We added IKEA storage bags for the out of season clothes on one side and the old drawers from the wardrobe fit perfectly beneath the new bed for storing toys.

5. Refresh the Chest of Drawers with a Stylish Grey Makeover

To finish off the room transformation, I tackled the old chest of drawers, which had suffered from years of scribbles and wear. A fresh coat of grey paint did wonders, leaving the knobs and top sanded for a stylish contrast. This small DIY project gave the room an updated look without needing to invest in new furniture and tied in perfectly with the baskets.