OUR kids are little individuals, with bright personalities and ideas. That is why they need their own unique creative spaces, to enjoy who they are now and grow into who they are destined to be.

It is important for children to have their own space, be it an en suite bedroom, playroom or pyjama lounge. It is a place that belongs to them, and that they are responsible for; an area where they can retreat, rest, play and dream in, and one that safely stores all their favourite things.

Little ones develop preferences for colours, fabrics, textures and designs early - and love what they have around them.

Creating "kids' rooms" is a trend in itself. In the last decade or so, people would generally keep everything as neutral as possible so their children wouldn't grow out of a particular theme or colour scheme.

But now, as parents see the need to develop their children's own tastes, they are encouraging more interesting and creative rooms.

The first port of call is space. If you have a small space, which is often the case in first homes or apartments, storage and planning is vital. You need to decide where your biggest pieces will go, then plan and build in storage for clothes, toys and other items. Shelves are very practical, as they allow you to store small items out of harm's way, and also make a great display for toys or ornaments that can clutter up the room.

If you have a large space, create a seating area, and a play area. When a baby is small you will need a practical comfy feeding chair, but once she reaches two, move the chair to your study or TV room, and bring in children-size furniture.

Choose bright fun colours that complement the room.

Lighting is important. For a baby, you will need a darkened room for naps during the day, so use blockout lining on your curtains or blinds. At night you might want a gentle light for night feeds, so install a dimmer.

Small children are often not happy in the complete dark, so a dimmer or night light is practical. And when your child is at school, good lighting is necessary for reading in bed, to do homework and for studying.

There are many unique kids' lighting options. Wall lamps are great for reading - easy to install and tough for little fingers to explore.

Mini chandeliers are growing in popularity, as they add light and ambience to a room. Themed pendants, from soccer balls to aeroplanes, keep imaginations flying. There are also a variety of lampshades and fairy lights.

Then we come to colour. Choose colours that are age-appropriate, and will be for at least five years. Realistically, after five years you will either move house or want a change anyway, so you don't have to be too safe. For example, for a little girl of two to four years old, use pink and pretty, with small prints and Barbie colours. Have fun, because this is probably your only chance to really use frills and fantasy.

For the next bedroom you create for your daughter (approximately 10 to 12), she will want fewer frills.

Rugs and carpets need to be practical. A plain cream carpet is fine for a baby, but once your child grows up, and lots of games and creative artwork are happening, darker colours might be a better option.

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