The planning of children's room designs does differ from other rooms (like living room designs for example) in two important regards. First, what-ever materials you select for your scheme are likely to be severely tested. Water may be splashed, food dropped and wall surfaces scuffed, so your choice of finishes and fabrics will have to be very carefully considered and their ability to stand up to wear and tear must be a priority.

Second, children have a habit of growing up very fast and at each stage they seem to develop an allergic reaction to the scheme that just a couple of years ago was deemed so appropriate. Durability and adaptability are therefore the keys to satisfying the young person's growing requirements and evolving taste.

The safety provisions required will to some extent depend upon the age of the child. But whatever his/her age, the danger points to pay particular attention to are: any electrical installations (sockets, switches, wires and so on); light fittings (these may be knocked over or skin burnt on an exposed bulb); heating appliances (with their danger of scalding or setting fires) and windows. Security glass in a window will help and good locking devices are a must, but grilles need to be considered in the context of a fire outbreak (that is, they must be easily removed in an emergency).

Attention should also be given to the choice of furniture. This should be stable, of a suitable size, without sharp comers or rough surfaces, and be made of a non-shattering material. Care should also be taken to avoid the use of paints containing lead.

Cleanliness and hygiene have a high priority - especially where the small baby is concerned. Scrubbable surfaces and the avoidance of crannies where dirt may lurk will help, as will the use of washable materials.