Cowboy wallpaper, a hidden race track—how a dim alcove turned into a cozy kids’ room
When their toddler outgrew the crib, the parents’ sleeping area became a child’s room—adding more openness and much-needed storage space to the cabin.
The tiny sleeping alcove in this Finnish family’s log cabin soon proved far too small once the family’s son outgrew the crib at the head of the bed. There was no storage for toys or clothes. The family fixed the problem by moving the parents’ sleeping spot to a loft used only occasionally for guests, then turning the alcove-like space into a child’s room.
They began the renovation by dismantling the bed that spanned the entire width of the room. Because the loft was directly above, the family also improved the sleeping area’s soundproofing by adding mineral wool to the ceiling, then finishing it with wooden paneling. On the side wall—partly masonry and partly plaster—they used rough-cut boards to keep the space looking as cohesive as possible.
They painted the surfaces to create a more spacious feel. The wooden floor paint beneath the bed, which had taken up nearly the entire room, was in such good shape that they didn’t need to do anything to it. To bring in more light, they opened the end wall to install a window left over from a sauna renovation.
Colorful wallpaper on the two short walls adds a playful touch to the room. It’s easy to switch out if and when the young resident wants a new look. The cowboy-themed design was ordered from England and, of course, required paneling over the log walls before installation.
The renovators paid special attention to storage, as the son needed space for his belongings and clothes. They installed a floor-to-ceiling, ladder-style plywood shelf to hold toys and books. The parents built the frame for the clothes shelf from laminated veneer lumber and rough-cut boards. Inside, they placed a full-height leftover wire basket unit and a clothing rod for hanging garments.
Finally, they mounted a plug-in electric heater on the wall for steady warmth. If the bed’s position ever changes, the heater can be easily relocated.
The entire decor came from existing furniture, textiles, and lighting. The charming pull-out children’s bed was borrowed from the family’s cabin neighbors. They then made use of the space below by attaching wheels to old desk drawers—ideal for storing Legos and toy cars.
Vintage toys and furniture fit perfectly with the room’s style, continuing the cabin’s fresh, homey feel. Now the space is functional, inviting, and—best of all—just right for its little occupant.
