Here are some tips for creating kids’ personal spaces from experts Sara Costello, Sandra Meyer, Shanon Munn, Raji Radhakrishnan, Megan Samuels and Claire Schwab:

¢ Don’t go too far with theme rooms, because children outgrow them quickly. Instead, use smaller accessories – such as Diego bookends or Dora sheets – which can be easily and inexpensively changed.

¢ Let children make design choices in small doses. So she adores purple? Steer her toward a subtle shade of that color for the walls, then bring in a brighter hue on a bedspread or pillow.

¢ Invest in furnishings that will move from childhood into teen years: a twin bed, for example, rather than a child-size version.

¢ Wool carpeting with pattern and color will hide stains and is highly cleanable.

¢ Include comfortable adult seating for reading and playtime together.

¢ Open storage such as cubbyholes or shelving will help keep the room tidy and teach kids to stay organized.

¢ In rooms for smaller children, a ceiling light or sconces are best. Table and floor lamps can be easily knocked around by toddlers.

¢ If all else fails, remember: You can always close the door.