The next time you’re out shopping for home decor or scouring the Internet for the perfect accent rug, take a stroll (or a scroll) through the kids’ department. Really! It’s where big retailers are hiding pieces with an unexpected but perfect balance of sophistication and personality to fit your grown-up aesthetic—no princesses or superheroes in sight. Hear the collective sigh of relief from parents, but the rest of us can reap the benefits, too. (Bonus: Design for little ones tends to run a bit cheaper.) Stores like Target, Pottery Barn, Crate & Barrel offshoot The Land of Nod and Restoration Hardware are all in the game. Here, exactly what to scope out.
The Best Decor Picks From The Kids' Department
Beds
Generally speaking, teen and tween lines offer queen-size beds that are perfect for apartments and small rooms. This canopy design is dreamy—a major statement piece. We also love the idea of using a daybed as a couch for the living room. Just add some great throw pillows, and it can double as a guest bed. A simple headboard can also be a budget-friendly option that will pull your space together or define the vibe of the room.
PBteen Costa Storage Bed, $1,900
PBteen Maison Canopy Bed, $999
PBteen Emily & Meritt Caned Daybed, $999
Serena & Lily Seahorse Headboard, $698
Lighting
This spotlight lamp is beautifully designed and would fit seamlessly into so many different spaces. And who wouldn't want a gilded palm tree in their living room or office? We love that the kids' section often has classic shapes in current colors, like this table lamp in pink.
The Land of Nod Cosmos Floor Lamp, $219
PBteen Emily & Meritt Palm Floor Lamp, $379
The Land of Nod Split Circle Table Lamp, $119
Target Pillowfort Tapered Table Lamp, $24
Rugs
A rug can enhance the largest and smallest of spaces, but it can also cost a fortune. Kids' stores tend to offer smaller sizes and interesting shapes perfect for seating areas, home offices or corners that need a bit of warming up.
PBteen Emily & Meritt Umbrella Stripe Rug, $199
PBteen Lennon & Maisy Tassel Round Rug, $120
The Land of Nod Casablanca Rug, $249 to $899
PBteen Emily & Meritt Zebra Rug, $999
Dressers and Armoires
While pricing on larger pieces of furniture may rival grown-up versions, design elements do as well. Beautiful lines, thoughtful details and vintage- and retro-inspired shapes are totally worth checking out.
PBteen Emily & Meritt Lilac 9-Drawer Dresser, $1,249
The Land of Nod Urchin 3-Drawer Dresser by Steuart Padwick, $899
The Land of Nod Campaign Dresser, $699
PBteen Emily & Meritt Pyramid Stud Armoire, $1,199
Storage
Kids need a place for everything—books, toys, clothes, you name it. This makes their section a great place to find creative storage options for yourself. We love dual-purpose benches and trunks, and there are many beautiful bin and basket options for blankets, towels, plants or any loose items you just want to contain in a pretty way.
Pottery Barn Kids Metallic Woven Wool Storage, $59 to $79
The Land of Nod Upholstered Storage Bench, $349
The Land of Nod Wheelhouse Bookcase, $249
Pottery Barn Kids Carved Toy Trunk, $399
Seating
This is where pops of personality really come through, and you'll be sure to find the perfect chair for reading nooks or anywhere else you want to add a bit of a wink.
Restoration Hardware Teen Kashmir Faux Fur Square Pouf, $99
PBteen Emily & Meritt Cave Chair, $699
Pottery Barn Kids Margherita Missoni Petal Desk Chair, $299
The Land of Nod Bakersfield Rocking Chair, $599
Decor
If you're looking for filler items—wall decor, throws, pillows, art—it's all there waiting to be discovered, usually in bright, fun colors and shapes. You'll be surprised by the level of sophistication.
Pottery Barn Kids Margherita Missoni Black Basket Pendant, $199
The Land of Nod Naturally Faceted Mirror, $179
