When purchasing pint-size pieces, give equal weight to comfort, great looks, durability, function and safety.

Whichever room you're shopping for, the furniture you choose should be well-constructed, versatile and suit your aesthetic. When it comes to furniture for a child's bedroom or play areas, there are additional factors to consider. Safety is paramount, of course, and since the little darlings are so fond of climbing on, jumping off and banging things shut, sturdy and durable materials are a must.

"Children's rooms are becoming sophisticated little oases for them to retreat to," says Megan Butler, Marketing & Sales Director at Lilly & Lolly. "The most popular pieces are streamlined and practical but can be accessorised to suit their personalities."

Style

Designers are steering away from the cutesy, preferring a timeless look that ties in with the rest of the house and will suit a child through to their teens. Pastels are making way for brights and there's a return to natural timber. "Finding products that appeal to parents and children alike is important," says Butler.

Think of your children's furniture as an investment and buy the best you can afford. "You will potentially have these pieces a long time and you can mix them with cheaper fashionable accessories," says Virginia Penrose, owner of children's homewares retailer, Siroccohome.

Space

Penrose says sharing bedrooms is on the rise, something she attributes to blended families. Urban living is also a factor. It's a trend that has created a need for furniture that suits both genders.

Designers and manufacturers have responded with products that make creative use of space. Many cots, for example, can be transformed into junior beds. Modular-style bunks are popular too. These beds can be configured to accommodate up to three children, and may include drawers, shelves and desks.

"Parents want to know that furniture can be used numerous ways or that the purpose can change as needs alter," says Keryn Hughes, designer and owner of furniture manufacturer, In Your Room. "Furniture doesn't have to be complex to be multifunctional either."

Safety

Safety is a key consideration when you're choosing furniture for children. Take some time to find out how the product is made, and with what.

Jodi Sharp, co-owner of children's furniture specialist Treehouse says children's furniture should be stable, sturdy, have rounded corners and no protruding hardware or loose pieces. Always ensure non-toxic paint and materials are used. Look for soft-close drawers, gas-lift hinges or lids that can be locked in the upright position to prevent fingers being caught.

Cots and bunk beds must comply with safety standards — check your preferred model is approved before buying. It's worth noting that some beds (especially bunks) are only approved for use with low-profile mattresses.

Ergonomics

Proper support is essential for growing bodies to prevent strain on the neck and spine, which can lead to postural problems and health problems later in life.

Invest in a quality mattress from birth and adjust the level of support as they grow and change. Chairs need adequate support for both the upper and lower back, and your little one's feet should be flat on the floor when sitting — choose chairs with height-adjustable seats or use a footrest. Desks and tables that are too high or low can also cause posture problems. When sitting, arms and hands should be at 90° to each other, as should hips, knees and feet.

Lots in store

Children have a surprising amount of paraphernalia for such little people, so clever storage solutions are a must. Here are some top storage ideas:
Built-in bench seats with flip-top lids for storing bedlinen, out-of-season clothes and toys.
Toy boxes that double as a seat.
Beds with storage drawers in the base.
Storage boxes that can be neatly stowed under bed frames.
Shelves and storage units (wall-mounted so they can't be pulled over).
Stackable furniture — anything that can be stacked or stowed (such as tables and chairs) takes up less room.
Pretty boxes that can be stacked on top of each other or arranged in a bookcase.
Table-top organisers for items such as craft materials.

Double take

"With the cost of living soaring and families staying in smaller properties, there is a trend towards multipurpose pieces and children's furniture that ties in aesthetically with adult spaces," says Tina Hutton from children's furniture retailer, Noosh. Multipurpose pieces that are space-efficient and can be adapted as your child grows do away with the need for buying new furniture for each stage.

Looking for more indoor inspiration? Check out our Indoor section.