How much say should kids have in designing their bedroom

A.� It's up to you entirely, but like so many aspects of bringing up kids compromise is often the key.

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Left to their own devices and the decor would probably include a dogs dinner of stripes, squiggles, murals all in the brightest possible colours. While there is no need to impose your idea of what a child's bedroom looks like (most kids don't actually want something that looks like a doll's house stuffed with cuddly toys) it is quite possible to use a combination of bold colours or one flamboyantly painted wall without ending up with a mess. Also bear in mind that their tastes will change rapidly.

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A.� Themed or shaped beds, boats, trains etc, are very popular, particularly as first beds. However, they tend to be small and quickly grown out of so if your budget isn't limitless or and your not planning to have lots more who can inherit, it is more sensible to buy a full-sized single bed that will last them right through their teens.

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It doesn't have to be plain. You can paint it yourself, put on removable stencils or shop around for something a little bit distinctive or individual.

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Freeing up space is usually a must in a child's bedroom, which explains why bunk and elevated beds are so popular. Double bunks can accommodate friends and relatives who come to stay or brothers and sisters. Most have enough room underneath for draws or storage boxes.

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A.� Don't leave this as an afterthought or you will be constantly struggling to find space. Consider storage as part of the whole design.

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As with beds it is usually better to avoid buying child sized furniture, except perhaps a table and chair for them to paint, draw, do jigsaws at etc. Kids are capable of producing just as much clutter as adults and need the cupboards and wardrobes to match.

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Shelving and shelving units are invaluable, at the right height obviously, offering instant access to toys and possessions.

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It's worth exploiting every gap. You can buy excellent and brightly coloured storage boxes on runners that can be slid in and out from under beds or the base of shelving units. Chairs and tables that fold away can help create instant space too.

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A.� Teenagers have criteria all of their own. Piles of Lego, jigsaws and soft toys are replaced with computers, televisions, hi-fis, books etc. The bedroom is the teenagers own turf, their retreat so it needs to cater for relaxation and entertaining as well as studying and sleeping.

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