7 children’s room designs that discerning parents can get behind

Words by Harsh Thakkar. Edited for context.

An Indian Tech Entrepreneur’s San Francisco House

In the playroom, a whimsical mural wallpaper by Annet Weelink Design takes centre stage. A charming set of decorative mushrooms from Johnathan Adler lie atop an upright piano by Roland. The furniture is by West Elm.

Jenna Peffley

The charming nursery, beyond the playroom.

Jenna Peffley

Hand-painted Phuljari murals by de Gournay, bone inlay tables, and striking copper leaf details—this San Francisco home, designed by Alexis Banks Humiston, reverberates with an Indian spirit. A growing family with three young daughters meant that the Jaswa residence would have to be—at its very core—comfortable, liveable, and adaptable. The 9,500-square-foot San Franciscan home—a classic mid-century modern structure—reverberates with an Indian spirit. Yet, far from presenting as a kitschy Western reinterpretation of South Asian culture, it is refreshingly authentic.

There’s a unique joy in designing for clients with whom a designer shares a deep resonance—one that shines through the interiors. For Humiston, the Jaswas embody just that. “This project will always hold special meaning, as it became a genuine reflection of who our clients are and what they cherish most,” she says. “With their deep connection to heritage, family, friends, nature, joy, and beauty, there was much to bring together—and the result is a thoughtful celebration of it all.”

Words by Nuriyah Johar. Edited for context.

A Zen Haven In Bengaluru

A customised canopy bed adorned with colorful pompoms brings a whimsical, fairytale charm to the room. Complementing the arches, the bespoke chest of drawers enhances both style and storage.

Jubin Johnson

Soft pastel tones envelop the bathroom.

Jubin Johnson

An eight-foot arched entrance heralds a visitor into Zen Casa, a 6,600-square-foot home designed by Balan + Nambisan Architects. The home’s highlights are the nursery and daughter’s bedroom, carefully curated for the home’s youngest inhabitant. Starting with a wardrobe and dressing area that leads into a whimsical room, the design features playful wallpaper, an arched canopy bed, and rounded furniture, all maintaining a cohesive, soft theme while keeping the room lively and engaging for a two-year-old.

The nursery with steps that lead the child up to a space crafted for both play and quick naps, complemented by a custom-made rug and playful toys that bring character to the neutral palette.

Jubin Johnson

The nursery features a neutral palette and wooden flooring, providing a serene backdrop for the vibrant toys and games that bring color to the space.

Jubin Johnson

The spirited Montessori-style nursery with a multilevel playhouse and various wall-mounted activities add a touch of chutzpah to the surroundings apart from being pure eye candy! A curved, unique built-in structure features steps leading to a cozy custom mattress above for fun or quick naps, while a small magnetic board and game zone below encourage creativity and play.

Words by Mallik Thatipalli. Edited for context.

An Art-Filled Duplex In Mumbai

A statement bunk bed takes centre stage.

Ishita Sitwala

A sleek study table occupies the space opposite the bed.

Ishita Sitwala

Mumbai and New York feel like twin cities in more ways than one. In these bustling metropolises, time seems sped up and space is sacrosanct; every second and every square foot is accounted for. Both are cities of dreams, and ironically, cities that never sleep. It’s no wonder that designer Jason Wadhwani found the perfect muse in NYC, infusing its essence into his vision for a sparkling, art-filled duplex in Mumbai. This urban oasis defies the ordinary and transcends the conventional bounds of location. “We wanted to create a space that felt truly international aesthetically but still felt like home,” Wadhwani explains.

The children’s bedroom and playroom stand as testaments to the fact that interiors for children can be free of loud colours and bold themes, yet still be whimsical, fun, and age-appropriate. The bedroom features a statement custom-designed bed and side tables by Wadhwani himself, with an interesting bunk bed railing by Swaddle Cove. In a corner lies the iconic Togo armchair by Ligne Roset.