A guide to creating kid-core trims

Kid-core trims are all about embracing colour in a fun and expressive way. Think vibrant blues, sunshine yellows, bubble-gum pinks and grassy greens, along with a few unexpected pops of purple or orange. These are the kinds of colours many of us remember from 90s bedrooms, toys and school bags, now used in a more modern, considered way.

Rather than painting whole rooms, this trend focuses on architectural details like skirting boards, architraves and window trims. These areas naturally frame a space, so adding colour here helps it stand out without feeling too crazy.

If you love colour but don’t want it everywhere, painting trims is a great place to start. Because trims take up less visual space, you can be a bit braver with colour while still keeping the room easy to live in. Bold trims can lift a plain room, draw attention to existing features and make smaller spaces feel more playful. They’re also simpler to update than full walls if you change your mind later. This makes kid-core trims a good option for bedrooms, playrooms, home offices or anywhere that could use a bit more personality.

When it comes to kid-core trims, it’s worth leaning into colour rather than playing it safe. Bright shades tend to work best, especially those with a nostalgic feel. Primary colours, pastel brights and retro-inspired tones are all popular choices.

Electric blue trims can really stand out against white or beige walls, while warm yellow skirting pairs nicely with soft greys. Pink or coral door frame trims can brighten up hallways, and green window frames are fresh and playful. For a pulled-together look, using the same trim colour throughout a room.

This trend works well in kids’ bedrooms and playrooms, where colour can help create a fun, welcoming space. Painting skirting boards, door frames or window frames in bold shades adds personality without taking over the room, making it easy to update as kids grow and tastes change.

This approach also works well in shared spaces used by kids, such as rumpus rooms or study nooks, where a pop of colour can add energy without overwhelming the area. If it’s the first time trying the look, starting with one room trim painting or even a single doorway is a simple way to see how it works before adding more colour elsewhere in the home.

Trims tend to get more wear and tear than walls, so it’s worth thinking about durability when choosing your paint finish. A finish with a slight sheen helps colours look sharper and makes trims easier to wipe clean. A little extra sheen can also reflect more light, helping bold colours stand out, while smoother type of paint finishes highlight clean edges and lines.

To keep bold trims from taking over a space, balance them with simpler elements elsewhere. Neutral walls, straightforward furniture and natural textures like timber or linen help keep the overall look grounded while still letting the colour do its thing.

You can also build the look gradually by echoing trim colours in small décor pieces, using different colours in different rooms or pairing playful trims with classic finishes. This keeps the result feeling fun, modern and easy to live with.