How Curtains Impact the Design of Kid’s Spaces

By Esther Ellard

I believe designing for kids is the chance for me to blend imagination with intention. For one project in particular, I was tasked with designing a toddler’s first bedroom and a kid’s lounge space. In these dedicated spaces, I wanted to strike the perfect balance between playfulness and practicality. From a calming color palette and cozy textures to the functional details that make a big impact, every element was chosen with both little ones and their grown ups in mind. Thoughtful window treatments played a supporting role, creating warmth, structure, and softness while allowing each room to shine in its own unique way.

A Nursery Designed to Grow With the Child

When designing nurseries, one thing I keep in mind is that it’s not only just for the babies. This space evolves with time meaning each piece needs to be adaptable. In this room, our goal was to design a nursery that sparked imagination and created a fully immersive experience for the toddler. 

Our clients wanted something that was playful and would last her until she was at least five years old. For this reason, I selected floor level furnishings and open shelving to encourage independence and foster a montessori style layout. Multi functional elements also played a key role in this design. Book ledges and toy bins offered both display and storage solutions.

Creative Details That Spark Joy

For the wall color, Shoerwin Williams Pink Shadow was the foundation. From here, we partnered with a local Athens artist to create a large scale wall mural that added a creative flair and visual storytelling. For furnishings, we kept to muted eart tones and woods to invite calm while encouraging creative exploration. The entire space was designed as a way to reflect a feeling of warmth, joy, and belonging.

A Cozy and Calm Loft Lounge

The kid’s lounge in the loft area was designed for downtime and quiet play so we added in soft textures and low seating to encourage relaxation. The color palette for this room was earthy greens and neutrals that promoted a grounded, comforting atmosphere without being too little kidish. Beanbag style chairs, a padded rug, and light filtering window treatments were selected to support both sensory comfort and visual interest. 

The Power of Window Treatments

Curtains play a significant role in kids spaces not just from an aesthetic standpoint but also from a functional perspective. Light filtering curtains in a creamy neutral tone allowed for soft daylight while still maintaining privacy all while giving a gentle frame to the lounge area. The floor length Joy Sheer Curtains in Beige added a sense of coziness and elegance without feeling too formal. 

In the nursery, blackout lining was a must because this extra layer supports healthy sleep routines that we all know growing toddlers need. The Isabella Heavy weight Cotton Drapery Panels in Beige White created the perfect “cloudlike” look to the bedroom. Once we added a brass tie back, the curtains not only served a functional purpose but also became part of the wall mural itself.

The selection of window treatments helped tie both rooms together cohesively. Curtains act as a unifying element that is neutral enough to evolve with the space, but textured enough to feel intentional. By selecting durable fabric choices, these two spaces were designed to be both family friendly and future proof. The kid's room doesn't need to shout to be special. When we design with care by layering texture, prioritizing function, and choosing window treatments that support both style and structure, we create spaces that feel grounded, imaginative, and full of heart. 

*All photographs credit: Esther Ellard

ABOUT WRITER