Shared bedrooms for kids are common in small city homes, but it can be challenging to design a space which caters to each child’s individual requirements. It’s essential to create a well-planned room that can suit children from different age groups and be adapted as they grow older. Here’s how to craft a stylish kid's bedroom which enables siblings to coexist without compromising on their needs and preferences.

1. Plan an Efficient Layout

• Create a well-organised space by incorporating a double bed or twin beds with side tables that can be used for additional storage. Position single beds against opposite walls of the room to create an empty play zone in between.
• If there is a space crunch, opt for a pull-out trundle bed or a bunk bed which are great space-saving options. However the disadvantage of a bunk bed is that the children outgrow them quickly.
• Consider multipurpose pieces of furniture that can serve at least two functions and free up floor space.

2. Optimise Storage

• Floor-to ceiling wardrobes offer plenty of storage even as your children grow older. Divide the wardrobe into distinct sections for each child and ensure that there are hangers, open cabinets, drawers and wardrobe hooks to organize their belongings.
• Use the space below the bed for storage. Choose a hydraulic bed or one with box storage or drawers.
• Install a multipurpose cabinet with open shelves and closed cabinets to keep items out of view. Divide the shelves equally among the children so that they can store their books, stationary, toys, and shoes. The higher shelves should be used by the taller sibling and the lower shelves by the shorter one.
• A seat with built-in storage can be incorporated by the window.

3. Create a Clutter-Free Space

• Use the principle of ‘less is more’ when designing a shared kid’s bedroom.
• Periodically de-clutter the bedroom every 4 to 6 months to create a light and balanced space. Donate or discard old toys, books and clothes that no longer fit.

4. Make Provisions for Remote Learning

• It is important for each child to have a separate study table but it may not be practical to accommodate two desks in one bedroom. Carve out separate study areas depending on the age of the children. Elder kids will require privacy and fewer distractions while studying and younger ones might need adult supervision.
• Whatever the location of the study area, create an ergonomic space by introducing a table and chair as per the height of the child. There should be proper task lighting and good internet connectivity.

5. Personalise Individual Spaces

• Give each child a wall of their own so that they can decorate it as they like or use it to display their handiwork and other achievements.
• Bring in an element of fun by using a colour code to demarcate the wardrobe and shelves for each child.
• A neutral colour palette works best for a bedroom shared by siblings. Accentuate the space with quirky accessories and decorate the walls in fun wallpaper with geometrical shapes, florals, or cartoon characters, according to your children’s interests.