My four and five-year-old boys share a room – one has a slight obsession with trains, the other is into anything and everything “boy”. Because of their personalities, a train bedroom isn’t a farfetched reality to please them both. But knowing that they grow and change rather quickly, I decided to create a room that has neutral key pieces with train accents. This not only allows for any changes to the room as they get older, but it’s a smart way to save money in the long run.
1. Bright, solid-colored bedding or even patterned such as the popular chevron, plaid, stripe or gingham can be paired with almost any theme when done correctly. I tend to go with the solid colors.
Organic duvet cover, photo credit: Pottery Barn Kids
2. The easiest way to incorporate a theme is with throw pillows. We used these on each of the boys’ beds, but they can also be styled on a chair, bench or in a corner reading nook.
Train pillow, photo credit: Hen House Originals on Etsy
3. Lighting is often the detail that gets overlooked or is easily replaced by something practical. Replace an old fixture, ceiling fan or install a fun option that not only fits the decor of the room, but on that will last you many years to come.
Depot light, photo credit: Pottery Barn Kids
4. Bookshelves and accent tables versatile pieces that can double as an space-saving, efficient place to store books, toys, collectibles and clothes in bins or baskets. They can also be used as a bedside table as your child gets older.
Catalina nightstand, photo credit: Pottery Barn Kids
5. The area rug is also a key piece in any room – themed or not. Because we went with bright and mostly solid colors (with very little patterns), we picked this colorful, striped rug to add just the right amount of depth in order to liven up the room even more. It also creates more wiggle room when accessorizing the theme as it open up the option to use any color within the decor.
Lascala Chevron Stripe Rug, photo credit: Mohawk Home/Bed Bath and Beyond
6. We try to keep bedrooms free of toys and electronics, but always encourage books and comfortable places to rest tired feet. With a bright, soft chair for each boy, they have an inviting place to rest, read or relax at any given moment. Having child-sized pieces within a child’s room is something I always plan for as I know that kids naturally gravitate towards items at their level.
Anywhere chair, photo credit: Pottery Barn Kids
7. A great way to fill an open space on a wall or decorate above a child’s bed is with lettering. I’ve used chalkboard wall panels to cut and create numerous silhouette-style designs, but for this room, I decided to go with a saying that is very near and dear to my heart – in regards to my boys.
Dream Decal, photo credit: Target.com
8. Road (or train) signs are an adorable way to decorate wall and shelf space. We selected this sign, along with other train-related tin signs, and created signs on one wall with the help of black chalkboard vinyl decals. Another item we have on the shelves are stacked suitcase sets. They’re the perfect “train travel” accessory.
Train crossing sign, photo credit: Amazon.com
9. These curtain panels helped to tie in the dark colors of the room and they can easily be matched with a surf, circus, pirate or boat theme in the future – should the boys ever decide it’s time to change their room from trains to something else. The best part… they help block out the sun without the need for additional light-blocking panels.
Chocolate Brown Curtains, photo credit: World Market
10. A height chart is a great way to add a practical piece of artwork to your child’s walls. We have this one and some fun train prints that match quite nicely.
All Aboard Growth Chart, photo credit: Land of Nod
Now, for the finished product. Ta da!
Written by:
Christina Holt, Writer/Teacher- Mommy Loves Coffee
