Create The Perfect Girl's Oasis with Three Simple Tricks
I could wax poetic about Kendall Simmons all live long day if you let me and it has a lot to do with her gorgeous interiors, print mixing abilities and enviable kids spaces. But you know what else I love about Kendall? She gives killer advice. Case in point, this wallpapered gem that comes bearing 3 simple tricks to crafting the ultimate girl's oasis.
This sweet blue and white girl’s room belongs to Lila. She’s 8 years old, and was in need of an upgrade from her previous little girl space. Lila’s mom reached out to me to help create a retreat fit for a big girl, with the goal of longevity in mind. We set out to design a room that feels perfectly comfortable for an 8 year old, but can easily transition for an 18 year old with only a few tweaks.
The following are three easy methods to create the perfect space for any little girl, no matter the age.
Choose an item to splurge on. You only need one, but make it a good one! For Lila’s room, we decided to go all out with a wall of Rebecca Atwood wallpaper behind the bed. The watercolor floral pattern is whimsical enough for a child, but at the same time it’s sophisticated enough for a young adult. Actually, now that I’m typing that sentence, I think it’s perfect even for a not so young adult!
1. Make one big statement
Choose an item to splurge on. You only need one, but make it a good one! For Lila’s room, we decided to go all out with a wall of Rebecca Atwood wallpaper behind the bed. The watercolor floral pattern is whimsical enough for a child, but at the same time it’s sophisticated enough for a young adult. Actually, now that I’m typing that sentence, I think it’s perfect even for a not so young adult!
2. Mix and match your textiles
Add layers and interesting combinations of fabrics. So often, children’s rooms fall into the trap of everything being perfectly matched. Avoid that urge! Don't buy the bed-in-a-bag kit! The mixture of fun, unexpected bedding and fabrics add visual interest and help a room feel like it’s been collected over time. For example, in this room I mixed completely different fabrics for sheets, coverlet, quilt, shams, and accent pillows. I also added textured drapery with fun tassels, and a big mixture of unmatched pillows on Lila's window seat.
3. Create contemplative space
In 2017, everyone is inundated with screens and technology. For children, be sure to carve out a little bit of space just for reading, drawing, thinking and relaxing. For Lila, the beautiful window seat with new cushions and pillows is her contemplative space.
Photography: Catherine Truman | Interior Design: Kendall Simmons | Bedside Tables: Wisteria | Bedside Lamps: Wisteria | Bench: Ballard Designs | Drapery Panels: Anthropologie | Quilt: Anthropologie | Floral Quilt: Pottery Barn Teen | Throw Pillow: Urban Outfitters | Throw Pillow: Urban Outfitters | Throw Pillow: Urban Outfitters | Throw Pillow: Urban Outfitters | Throw: Urban Outfitters | Accent Lamp: Urban Outfitters | Artwork: Urban Outfitters | Artwork: Urban Outfitters | Wallpaper: Rebecca Atwood | Rug: Dash and Albert