Many people planning to build a home struggle with how to design the children’s room. The room size in particular needs to be considered in light of the overall house size, the number of children, and their future growth. In this article, we explain the average size of a children’s room, how to think about the best size, and the key points for creating a floor plan that avoids common mistakes.
What is the average size of a children’s room?
Six tatami mats is the standard benchmark
The standard size for a children’s room is 6 tatami mats, which provides enough space even with a bed, study desk, and wardrobe in place.Other common sizes are 4.5 tatami mats, 5 tatami mats, 5.5 tatami mats, and 8 tatami mats. A 4.5-tatami room can feel cramped, while an 8-tatami room may be larger than necessary in some cases.
Also consider the children’s gender and age
If siblings are of different genders or there is a significant age gap, separate rooms are ideal.If they are the same gender and close in age, they may share a larger room. It is reassuring to choose a design that also anticipates adding a partition in the future.
What size is best for a children’s room?
Make a comprehensive judgment based on house size and family size
The average children’s room is 6 tatami mats, but balance with the overall size of the house is important. If the home is around 30 tsubo, 4.5 tatami mats is a useful guide; if it is around 35 tsubo, 6 tatami mats is the benchmark.
If you choose a larger room, also plan for future partitioning
Planning to divide a 9-tatami room into two rooms later can also be effective. Costs and flexibility vary depending on the partition method, such as wall construction, fittings, or shelf-and-curtain dividers.A design that takes outlet and window placement into account is important.
Even a small room can feel spacious with the right ideas
By using ideas such as separate storage space, a loft bed, low-profile furniture, and white-toned wallpaper, you can create a comfortable space even in a 4.5-tatami room.
What are the key points for a floor plan that avoids mistakes?
Give children a private space as well
By the upper elementary school years through high school, having a space of their own becomes important for children’s emotional stability and growth.Rather than focusing only on square footage, aim for a design that gives them a clear sense of “having their own place.”
Listen to the children’s opinions too
If the children are old enough, asking what they want in their room helps create a stronger sense of attachment. When the views of the people who will actually use the room are reflected in the design, the result is a room that is easier to live with.
Related reading
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. What is the minimum size that is sufficient for a children’s room?
A minimum of 4.5 tatami mats is enough to place the basic furniture. However, this assumes that storage space is secured separately.
Q. How can a children’s room be used after the children move out?
More people are using it as a study, hobby room, or home office. It is useful to plan for future repurposing in advance, such as outlet placement and natural lighting.
Q. How much does it cost to add a partition later?
If you divide the room fully with wall construction, a rough guide is around JPY 200,000 to JPY 500,000. If you use a simpler partition with fittings or shelving, it may be possible from tens of thousands of yen.
Q. Is there an ideal window position for a children’s room?
A south-to-east-facing orientation is ideal for securing natural light and ventilation. For privacy protection, it is also important to design the room so the window does not directly face a neighboring home’s window.
