How to DIY a Secret Playroom in a Kids’ Room Closet

Every old home has its quirks, and this sweet girl’s bedroom had two. A deep, original-to-the-home closet with a long hallway leading to a little nook, and two smaller closets added later that used to store her clothes. For this kids’ room closet makeover, we wanted to make sense of all these spaces and create a secret hideaway for a very creative little girl.

The Clothes Closet

For the newer closets, the IKEA Aurdal system turned out to be the perfect fit. Almost as if it were designed specifically for this kids’ room closet project. I started by giving the space a bold coat of blue paint, then added a floral wallpaper that instantly brought personality and charm to the inside of the closet. Once the wallpaper was up, I installed the Aurdal system to create structured, functional storage. This is the same closet installation I used in my son Anderson’s bedroom. With that foundation in place, I finished the look with vintage pulls and coordinating décor. It’s the small things that tie everything together and make the closet feel custom.

Here’s a link to a TikTok where you can see it come together.

Livelynine Wallpaper
IKEA Aurdal

The Secret Hideaway in a Kids’ Room Closet

I am so excited to share this secret hideaway with you. It’s the kind of magical little nook that is easy to find in an old home, full of quirks, character, and unexpected opportunities. What started as an oddly shaped, unused closet has now become a cozy, whimsical space perfect for reading, daydreaming, and imaginative play. These are the moments that make designing kids’ spaces so much fun. I love taking something forgotten and turning it into something unforgettable.

A Floral Statement

The right wallpaper can completely set the tone for a space, and this pink peony pattern does exactly that. The moment you see it, you know immediately what kind of space you’re stepping into. It’s soft, sweet, feminine, and full of charm. Wallpaper is one of my favorite design tools for kids’ spaces because it instantly communicates personality, and in this little hideaway, the peonies do all the talking.

The round decorative mirror makes the little hideaway feel downright regal. Its shape softens the small space, while the intricate detailing gives it that “princess” quality kids are naturally drawn to. Even in a tiny nook, the right mirror can elevate the whole atmosphere.

Pink Peony Wallpaper

Lighting Fit For a Queen

You don’t have to settle for boring lighting—even in a closet. Functional doesn’t have to mean forgettable, and this project is proof of that. Lighting is one of the easiest ways to elevate a space, so say goodbye to boob lights forever. There are so many better, more stylish options out there. Whether it’s a small chandelier, a pretty flush mount, or a charming sconce, the right light can make even the tiniest nook feel intentional, welcoming, and beautifully designed.

Secret Hideaway

I designed this space earlier this year, and I’m proud to say it gets tons of use. Seeing a child genuinely enjoy a room that was once overlooked is one of the best parts of what I do. This little hideaway has become a favorite spot for reading, playing, and imagining, exactly what I hoped it would be when I first started dreaming up the design.

Before this project, this closet was completely unused thanks to a tall hanging bar that blocked the view of the entire back section. Now, the entry feels like a grand little hallway leading straight into a hangout zone. I added hooks along the original wall trim to create the perfect spot for displaying costumes.

Take a peek behind the curtain, and you’ll see that this space is simple but loved. I used bins already in the home, filled with stuffed animals and laid down a cozy little bathroom rug- nothing fancy, nothing over-the-top. And honestly, that’s all it takes. Little kids don’t need elaborate setups to be entertained. Give them a soft place to sit, some favorite toys within reach, and a bit of magic in the atmosphere, and they’ll happily play for hours.

You Can Make Magic Too!

You can create unique and special spaces for your kids, too. All it takes is a little open-mindedness and a willingness to see your home’s quirks as opportunities. You might not have a room with three closets, but maybe you can loft your child’s bed to create a cozy fort underneath, or add a simple play tent they can make entirely their own. Kids don’t need grand renovations; they just need a spot that feels magical to them. With a bit of creativity, any corner of your home can become a place where imagination comes alive.

If you’re in the Baltimore area and dreaming up a special space for your kids, I’d love to help bring it to life. Whether it’s a closet hideaway, a built-in storage solution, or a full room redesign, contact me and let’s create something magical for your family.