Boys' Shared Bedroom Reveal: A Vehicle-Inspired Space Full of Color, Function, and Heart
I’m Starr, an Atlanta interior designer, and I’m so excited to take you behind the scenes of a project that's extra special to me: my boys’ bedroom. Designing this space meant the world to me because the clients were two of my favorite little humans, my own sons!
Whether you’re putting together a nursery for a new arrival or looking for fresh kid’s room ideas, I hope this inspires you to create spaces that are joyful, personal, and practical.
Designing for Little Ones with Big Personalities
Kids’ rooms are such a fun opportunity to break a few design rules. Unlike adult spaces where we usually stick to neutrals, children's rooms let us play with bold colors, fun patterns, and creative themes.
For my boys’ shared room, I leaned into my son DJ’s current obsession, vehicles of all kinds. He loves everything from police cars to excavators, so going with a vehicle theme felt like the perfect fit.
The Power of Pattern
Instead of wallpapering the entire room, I picked one feature wall to act as the main focal point. I wanted a stripe pattern that felt a little more elevated, something with character. Once I found the right one, I matched the room's paint colors to it for a cohesive look.
Wall Color: Tradewind by Sherwin-Williams
Ceiling & Door Color: Delft by Sherwin-Williams
Using consistent color tones like this makes the whole room feel pulled together, even when you’re working with bold design elements.
To echo the wallpaper, I had a custom Roman shade made with the same pattern. It's a small detail that makes a big impact and helps carry the design across the space.
Reimagining Furniture for Growing Kids
One of my favorite pieces in the room is the brass canopy crib. It was DJ’s crib when he was a baby, and now it’s been passed down to baby Gabe. When we chose nursery furniture, we looked for transitional pieces that could be reused for future kids. It’s so sweet seeing it in a new setting.
DJ has moved into a twin daybed with a trundle. When he was younger, it gave us a comfy spot for those long sleep training nights. Now it’s his main bed and doubles as a guest bed when family visits. We skipped the toddler bed stage and went straight to something that will grow with him.
We also added a swivel glider instead of a traditional rocker. It's softer on the walls, more comfortable, and perfect for those late-night feedings, storytime snuggles, or just winding down together. A cozy ottoman and small side table make this little corner functional and inviting.
Smart Storage for Shared Spaces
Shared rooms need smart storage solutions. Even though the boys have a walk-in closet, I added a tall storage unit for their clothes and toys. I skipped a traditional dresser to avoid the temptation of climbing, fellow toddler parents, I know you get it. We also ensured it was properly anchored to the wall with anti-tipping hardware for safety.
A Space to Learn, Play, and Imagine
Creating room for creativity was a must. I added a kid-sized table and chairs, along with low bookshelves stocked with their favorite reads. Everything is within reach and designed with their age and independence in mind.
Thoughtful Lighting for Every Moment
Lighting is such an important part of any space. In this room, I layered different types of lighting to make it functional and cozy:
A modern ceiling fixture that fills the room with light
Sconces above DJ’s bed for bedtime stories or a soft nightlight
A floor lamp near the reading area
Personal Touches That Matter
To make the room feel even more special, I added portraits of both boys. Gabe’s portrait features an airplane to match the theme, and DJ’s baby photo hangs nearby along with a sweet picture of the two of them together.
We framed them in wood with striped matting to tie in with the room’s patterns and colors. These touches bring so much warmth and personality to the space.
Final Thoughts
This room was a labor of love. Not only does it reflect my boys’ personalities, but it brings together design, function, and so much heart. From thoughtful storage to meaningful decor, I hope this project sparks some ideas, whether you’re searching for nursery ideas, revamping a shared room, or browsing for an interior designer near me to bring your vision to life.
Thanks so much for taking the tour! And if you’re looking for an Atlanta interior designer to help you create a space that feels just right for your family, let’s chat! We’d love to hear about your project.
