Turning a dull and chaotic toddler’s room into a bright, fun, and functional space doesn’t have to break the bank. With a bit of creativity and some smart shopping, you can transform your little one’s room into a delightful haven. Here’s a guide to help you through the process of a toddler room reno, focusing on budget-friendly solutions that don’t compromise on style.
Bringing life to the walls
The walls of a toddler’s room can set the tone for the entire space. To create a vibrant and engaging environment, consider using a combination of wallpaper and wall panelling. This approach allows you to splurge on a striking wallpaper while balancing costs with more affordable panelling options.
Using wallpaper and VJ panelling together is a popular design trend. Vertical joint (VJ) panelling is a popular choice in Australia for its classic, timeless look. Pairing VJ panelling on the lower half of the walls with a bold, colourful wallpaper above can create a dynamic and playful aesthetic.
Another option is to combine wainscoting with wallpaper. Wainscoting can be painted in a fun colour that complements the wallpaper, adding texture and depth to the room. This combination is both stylish and cost-effective, as you only need to purchase a small amount of wallpaper for the upper part of the walls.
Artwork and decor
Finding affordable yet impactful artwork and decor is easier than you might think. Op shops and clearance stores are treasure troves of unique items that can add character and charm to your toddler’s room. Look for bright and cheerful artwork, quirky toys, and vintage frames that can be repurposed on your op shop expeditions. A quick coat of paint can breathe new life into an old frame or piece of furniture, making it look fresh and modern and something that is hard to replicate.
Clearance sections in major retail stores often have hidden gems at a fraction of the cost. Items like fairy lights, occasional furniture, and decorative cushions can add bursts of colour and personality to the room without costing a fortune.
New curtains
Curtains are a key element in any room, providing privacy, light control, and an opportunity to inject some style. Fortunately, there are plenty of online providers that offer affordable, made-to-measure options. Online curtain providers like Blinds Online have a range of curtains and blinds that you can order to fit your windows perfectly. These options are usually cheaper than custom installations, but it’s crucial to get your measurements right to avoid any mishaps otherwise you will create an eye sore in the room. Bunnings also have some affordable options so do your price research.
Weather considerations
When choosing between curtains and blinds, think about the weather. Heavy curtains can help insulate the room during colder months, while lighter, breathable fabrics are great for keeping cool in the summer. Living here in Melbourne, we want to do as much as we can to keep the cold from creeping in so a thick, thermal blockout option of curtails or roman blinds is where we have landed. Blackout curtains are also a good idea for ensuring your toddler gets a good night’s sleep.
Functional furniture
When space and budget are limited, functional furniture is a must – especially if your house or unit has limited space in the bedrooms. Look for pieces that serve multiple purposes and are designed to make the most of the available space. You also want to make sure that the functional furniture you use in your child’s bedroom is going to grow with them, rather than be something you only get use out of for a year or so.
Trundle beds
A bed with a trundle is a fantastic option for a toddler’s room, especially when mum or dad is coming to the bedroom to re-settle a night. It provides an extra sleeping space for sleepovers or guests without taking up additional floor space. Some of my best memories as a child were having friends to stay on the trundle, and so I wanted this to be a feature in my toddler’s revamped room.
Multipurpose storage
A chest of drawers that doubles as a bookshelf and a place to display toys or a lamp is a great space-saver. Similarly, storage ottomans can provide seating and hidden storage for toys and other items. There are some chest of drawers and dressers that are low enough that they can be used as change tables with a change mat put on top. Our little one has eczema, so having a surface to put his creams and ointments was important.
Economical choices
IKEA and Kmart offer a range of affordable, functional furniture pieces that are perfect for a toddler’s room. Look for items that can grow with your child, such as adjustable beds and modular storage systems. Be sure to read the reviews of these affordable pieces, because sometimes you can see if there is a recurring issue that many people report – and also scan your Facebook Marketplace to see if people are trying to offload the same pieces you are looking at.
Brighten up with new lighting
Updating the lighting in your toddler’s room can make a significant difference without requiring a major investment. Simply replacing lightbulbs can enhance the room’s ambience and functionality, and you can choose between yellow and white light. There are also some fun ways to make your lighting part of the bedroom concept, so don’t be afraid to think outside of the box.
Lightbulb choices
Opt for bright, energy-efficient LED bulbs to ensure the room is well-lit for playtime and activities. Consider adding a dimmer switch to create a calming atmosphere for bedtime, as this can be a great one to signal to your little ones that it is time for quiet time. There are standard lightbulbs and the more dramatic-sized lightbulbs that become the feature – although they are expensive! You also want to be mindful of buying lights from another country in case it is hard to find replacement bulbs in future.
Affordable lighting solutions
Instead of replacing the entire lighting system, consider adding a fun nightlight or a string of fairy lights to create a magical feel. These additions are inexpensive and can make the room feel more inviting and cosy, but make sure they are cost-efficient to have on. Night lights and LEDs are such a fun way to add a pop of personality, and if your child loves unicorns, dinosaurs or animals – you are bound to find something suitable and bright. Finding lamps and lighting systems second-hand can often be spruced up with a clean, paint and new lightbulbs.
Final touches
With the walls, decor, curtains, furniture, and lighting sorted, it’s time to add the final touches. Personalise the space with your child’s favourite toys, books, and artwork. A well-placed rug can add warmth and comfort, making the room perfect for playtime.
Revamping your toddler’s room doesn’t have to be an expensive endeavour. By combining affordable solutions with a touch of creativity, you can create a bright, fun, and functional space that your little one will love. Happy decorating!
Be sure to check out the rest of our home articles and recommendations on things to do with little ones in Melbourne. If you manage to master your toddler room reno, be sure to tag us so we can see your gorgeous work!
