The Wallpaper Kids’ Founder Reem Shakarchi Shares Why A Room With A View is Vital for Inspiring Little Minds

The Dubai-based mum reveals the inspiration behind founding a company that creates magical sensory spaces for kids

Working closely with families, select local artists and sensory interior experts, Reem Shakarchi, is transforming children’s bedrooms and play areas one charming wall at a time. Not only does her team bring children’s interests and dreams to life with enchanting custom and curated wallpapers, but they also enhance sleep, play and learning development in the process.

What inspired you to start The Wallpaper Kids?

The idea for The Wallpaper Kids first came to me after my artist husband painted murals in our son’s bedroom and playroom. We saw the positive impact it had on him and we wanted to give parents the same opportunity of creating magical spaces for their little ones. I began seeking the expertise of sleep therapists, child psychologists, and sensory interior experts to create wallpapers that not only ignite children’s imaginations, but help them in three fundamental areas of development; sleeping, learning and playing.

How can the wallpapers contribute to sleep, learning and play?

Children need to feel comforted by what they see before they go to sleep. Our wallpapers steer clear of shadows or animals that are too big or fierce as we’ve learnt that a child’s perception almost always changes once the lights go down. When it comes to learning, our central themes of nature, family, diversity and friendship encourage language development and introduce new concepts to curious minds. We also provide magnetic solutions to help facilitate interaction and provide an engaging canvas for learning. Wallpapers that tell stories have the wonderful ability to spark a child’s creativity and encourage imaginative play.

How do you begin creating customised wallpapers for children?

We try to meet in person at the client’s home, so the children are in their comfort zone, and for infants or toddlers, parents’ input is key since their children are not old enough to explain their wants and needs. For any little-one that may have a sensory, behavioral, or learning issue, we have our child experts on hand to assist us. Getting a feel for a client’s home and their interior style is also considered, then, following our initial client meeting, we begin the sketch phase with our selected artist.

Tell us about the safe materials you use for child friendly wallpapers?

 It’s important to source a paper that is completely breathable, antimicrobial, and free of any nasties or hidden toxins. Our ink is water-based and our adhesive has zero VOC’s [harmful emitted gases], to ensure the safety of every child, family member and pet. We also know how messy things can get, so having a durable paper that can be wiped clean is important and all our wallpapers are plastic-free.

How have your experiences with your own children influenced your curation?

Having my second child during Covid was particularly challenging for my eldest. Not going to nursery, having friends to play with or the support from extended family made it difficult for him to adjust to a new family dynamic. As parents, we needed to assure him of the important place he holds within our family and found art to be a wonderful medium towards that. Creating wallpapers that reflect your child and the things they love reminds them that they matter, as do their voices and opinions. These findings have greatly influenced the way in which we curate our wallpapers.

Are there any motifs or colours that you avoid?

Our sensory interior experts have helped us to learn that primary colours red, yellow, and blue and overly crowded patterns should be avoided, particularly in bedrooms, to instill more harmony and balance. Gentle rounded shapes, and soft patterns are soothing to young children.

What is the greatest reaction you’ve had to your wallpaper designs?

Seeing how excited a clients’ twins Adrian and Aylar were from our recent custom wallpaper was one of the most heartwarming experiences. Every time we see them, they have a new story to tell us.

For more information, visit: The Wallpaper Kids

From Harper’s Bazaar Arabia’s Junior Spring 2024 issue

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