Camping In

A designer creates a playful kids room with lasting appeal.

When it came time to update 6-year-old Stephen Brown’s bedroom, his mom had simple goals: get rid of both the guest and pirate ship toddler beds and provide specific places for toys. “Instead of all the mismatched pieces, I wanted a color scheme,” Pearson Brown says.

Enter LA-based interior designer Baiyina Hughley, who ultimately envisioned a camping theme. “I wanted to create a space that was playful yet organized, as well as an overall design direction that Stephen could grow with over the years,” explains Baiyina.  

Most of the buying was done online from from websites like Etsy. “Whimsical details are what add charm and personality to a space, and Etsy is one of my go-to resources, especially for kid spaces,” states Baiyina. 

Neutral hues were chosen for paint and major furnishings. Pops of color and pattern were integrated into the space with accessories, bedding and window treatments. 

The lack of closet space was solved with a visit by a consultant from Woodtrac (woodtrac.com), who designed custom areas for all of Stephen’s belongings. Installation was done by handybook.com, which provides labor for painting, electrical work, carpentry and furniture assembly.

The makeover was also the catalyst for some downsizing and organizing. “There is a now sense of peace with having less, and he can actually find and play with his favorite toys,” the designer concludes.