Retro kids bedroom ideas for the 21st century

Big, bright and a bit of fun were notions at the heart of design for kids in the mid-20th century – which is why their rooms were distinguished by brilliant colours and daring graphics. Today, new materials and eco-friendly materials are taking mid-century aesthetics into the 21st century, but much-loved furniture can still be utilised.

1. Colour burst

In the 'olden' days, a girl's room was pink and a boy's room was blue, but by the mid-century it was a case of anything goes. Intense colours, such as this '70s-inspired vibrant orange, appealed to any gender and this colour concept has stayed with us into the present day. For extra pop, graphics with flower-formed animals continue the fun, creating a cheery and welcoming ambience.

2. Rocking chair

A gently rocking chair in a nursery provides comfort, tactility and mid-century style. Designed by Charles and Ray Eames, the moulded plastic rocker pictured here was originally made of fibreglass, but the new range now consists of recyclable polypropylene – an eco-friendly material for the 21st century.

More of Eames' classic designs

3. Matching fabrics

In the jungle, the mighty jungle, the kids will play tonight. Here (in the top picture), adventure and playfulness come together with this striking display of matching fabric and wallpaper. This was a popular way to coordinate colours and fabrics in the mid-20th century, and is finding new favour today. While this combo is still considered a brave design choice, the camouflage element works beautifully in this present day jungle-themed room.

4. Coat hanger

Ideal to hang everything from tutus to T-shirts, the Eames 'Hang It All' coat rack was designed to encourage kids to keep things off the floor. While the vibrant multi-coloured version pictured here has been popular for more than 50 years, the design is now offered in new colour ranges that work with current styles.

Creative hanger and hook ideas

5. Teepee

Baby-boomer parents and grandparents will remember that 'cowboys and indians' was once a favourite game to play, and it can still be fun today. This canvas teepee is a real winner with kids – no matter what game they choose to play, they can't resist finding a hiding spot. A teepee offers plenty of room to play with toys, read books and have intense conversations about the latest Star Wars film or the adventures of Dora and Diego.

6. Zigzag graphics

You can blame it on comic character Charlie Brown's recent comeback, but zigzag is definitely the new stripe. While Charlie's favourite T-shirt pattern was in plain black on yellow, zigzags can appear in different colours and sizes, making it a fun and whimsical pattern for a playroom or nursery. The style is timeless and can easily last until the teenage years.
 

Cartoon character graphics in the home

7. Geometric wall

Colourful murals were once all the rage in mid-century homes, and are perfectly suited to kids' rooms today. Fine brush strokes and incredible patience are mandatory when producing a work like this in the nursery. If this is a little intimidating, turn to a professional artist who can complete the look. Another option is to hang wallpaper – many ranges have mid-century elements for a crisp and funky effect.

8. Retro inspired rug 

A retro-inspired area rug in a corridor leading to a kids' playroom offers the perfect spot to sit and be creative. Paint the wall with black chalkboard paint, as this is a fantastic device for creating artworks, adding handy lists and writing inspirational sayings – much loved by kids and adults. The 21st-century paint can be used for different zones, such as playrooms and kids' bedrooms.

9. Easy-to-clean fabric

When it comes to choosing a sofa in the playroom, only the bravest homeowners would select a modular in white leather. However, faux leather is a surprisingly good choice for a play zone. It has a stain-resistant finish, is hard wearing and very cost effective. And the mid-century contours look just as appealing as they did in the swingin' '60s.

10. Fold-out sofa

A rumpus room is a great place to play, learn, entertain and hold a sleepover. As your child grows, it's important to have adequate bedding – as you never know when an invitation to three friends will turn into a mob of 10. While blow-up mattresses are handy, a stylish fold-out sofa – such as this lolly pink one – is easy and quick to set up. The furniture's '70s-inspired colours are ideal and are anchored by the circular cut-out display units and fluffy area rug.

TELL US
Do you like retro features in a kids' room? Share your ideas and photos in the Comments.

​

MORE