Small, Shared Kids' Room Storage and Decorating

Since the turn of the millennium, sage green has been the standard color of choice for tranquil, gender-neutral children's rooms. The mid-century modern classic, red-orange, is a high-energy alternative that is ideal for spaces that are geared towards activity. This tone can be overwhelming, especially in a small space; it's best to use it sparingly as an accent color through accent furniture, accessories or accent walls. In Evander and Frankie's room, red-orange appears in side chairs, a rocker, decorative vinyl decals, pillows and as the accent wall in their closet.

Another decorative element essential to a successful children's room — whether for a boy or a girl — is the use of graphic, easy-to-read shapes. From the patterns in the pillow fabric to the zigzag area rug, from a molded plastic rocker to framed art and vinyl decals, Evander and Frankie's space is packed with a plethora of rectangles, ovals, curves and squares. This is an excellent way to add visual interest to a space, especially if it lacks architectural interest.

Furniture placement and space planning are the most important factors in creating successful flow to any room, especially in a small space shared by more than one child. Since playtime is important to development — both social and physical — leaving the center of the room open is a great choice. In order to create open space and still reserve enough room for studying or crafts, it's best to take advantage of all vertical spaces.

Bunk beds have long been the bedroom furniture of choice for parents with children who share rooms; this arrangement frees up horizontal space that would otherwise be used by additional beds. While twin bunk beds are more readily available, it can be worthwhile to seek out harder-to-find toddler-size versions. A major advantage to choosing toddler-size bunk beds over twin styles is the slightly smaller dimensions that free up a bit more square footage: toddler mattresses measure 27-by-51-inches and twin mattresses measure 39-by-75-inches. The extra 12 inches of width and extra 24 inches of length make room for an extra table or chair.