July 7, 2025, 10:50 am | Read time: 5 minutes
Children also need peace and time for themselves. Whether in their bedroom or elsewhere, creating a personal space for relaxation and reading can be done with little effort. Experts explain how to achieve this.
Not only do we adults like to retreat sometimes–children love it too and enjoy relaxing in their own little world. To make this happen, it’s worth setting up a cozy corner in the child’s room. This also promotes the child’s creative development and well-being.
What Matters in a Cozy Corner in the Child’s Room
A cozy corner should be easily accessible, quiet, and sufficiently bright for children. “The space under a play or loft bed is just as suitable as a free corner of the room or an area under a sloped ceiling,” says Christine Scharrenbroch from the Association of the German Furniture Industry (VDM).
Optimal Size of a Reading and Cozy Corner
The size of the corner depends on the age and number of children. A toddler should have enough space to sit and lie comfortably. “An area of 70 by 140 centimeters is sufficient,” says Mareike Hermann from the DIY Academy. This corresponds to the dimensions of a child’s mattress. Alternatively, a seating niche in a wall unit can also be used, Hermann adds.
The mattress on the loft bed can also serve as a retreat. From above, children can observe well. This is important because “children often want to be part of the action and stay,” explains Gottfried Schilling, a carpenter and educator. He plans room concepts and play areas for children, including for daycare centers.
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Involve Children in the Planning
Before parents start implementing, they should talk to their child about their wishes and ideas. “The child should, if they can, be allowed to help decide how the cozy corner is designed,” says Schilling. Because they feel comfortable when surrounded by things they like, the expert notes.
Even if parents want to create a place for their child to rest: “The function of the cozy corner is ultimately determined by the child.” A retreat can also be a play area whenever the child incorporates it into their play.
Comfortable Seating is Key
To ensure the cozy corner in the child’s room is used often, it should be comfortable and cozy. A soft base like a play mattress or a carpet is well-suited, says Scharrenbroch. A thick floor cushion, a beanbag, or a child-sized sofa also add comfort. “A platform covered with carpet, especially with additional storage space underneath, is also nice,” Hermann adds.
Cozy (wall) cushions, large plush toys, and cuddly blankets increase comfort. But it’s also possible without them if you opt for a hammock or hanging chair. The effect is known from cradles: “Freely swinging elements are calming,” explains Schilling.
A Tent as a Cozy Alternative
A particularly nice and cozy alternative is small tents in the child’s room. The little ones can use it as a retreat, but also to hide or play in. The small tents for children can also be beautifully decorated with a bunting or string lights and lined with cushions inside.
Storage Options in the Cozy Corner
A low bookshelf in the cozy corner is practical. This way, the little ones always have their favorite books within reach and can immerse themselves in stories. Scharrenbroch advises attaching it to the wall or placing it freestanding. “Baskets with books or toys can also be placed,” she recommends.
Another idea is stacking fruit crates on top of each other, says DIY expert Hermann. A small system for music or audiobooks can also be accommodated in them.
The Right Light is Key
“String lights or a small lamp with warm light create coziness,” says Scharrenbroch. If the child likes to flip through books or even read, a reading light should be available in the corner. Dimmable lamps are practical, allowing the child to choose how dark or bright their retreat should be. Lights that can change the color of the light are also becoming popular.
To ensure the child enjoys using the corner, the walls should be designed to their liking. “The walls can be beautified with wall decals,” says Scharrenbroch. Or with posters and self-painted children’s pictures. This makes the cozy corner even more personal. The corner can be colored in the child’s desired color. Earth and beige tones, as well as cool blue, gray, purple, and green, have a calming effect. Red, pink, orange, and yellow are cheerful and can energize.
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The Cozy Corner Should Be Somewhat Hidden
It’s advisable to shield the cozy corner a bit from the rest of the room. For example, with an open shelf in front or a curtain, Hermann suggests. A canopy can also be helpful. “Such a small roof indicates that it’s a protected zone,” she says. Children experience even more of a cave-like feel in a small play tent or playhouse. “Here, children can retreat and enjoy feeling unobserved,” says Scharrenbroch.
With material from dpa