Style notes: A (Junior) Corner Of One's Own

With a little one just starting school I felt she was ready for a slightly larger work and play space. I had found this amazing old wooden children's desk at a trash and treasure market and took it home - although at the time I had no idea where to put it or use it for. It was just so lovely. It has a pull down top and lots of little words scribbled into the old wood from previous owners.

Anyway, I thought I would find a nice little sunny corner for it and set it up and she absolutely loves it. She has stacked all her paper and pencils and other bits and pieces in it and it has become an active hub of home. The little plastic figures on top are other market finds.

Speaking of school, what an amazing yet strange transition it is - for child and parent alike. With the younger starting kinder, I have returned home to feel quite conflicted about the domestic silence. While it offers a brief few hours of freedom to GET THINGS DONE, I've realized it also signals the end of those long open days where we could just do what we felt like that day - be it a bit of pasting or a walk, with no rules or structures. How quickly that time passes......

Kids rooms: vintage decorating

Vintage boat shaped shelves, print, soldier and some boats
Old jewel box with ballerina which still works
Vintage rocker and toys (not market finds but four generations old)
Puss in boots vintage tin from Camberwell Market.


OK so often one person's delicious vintage find is another person's trash. When it comes to second-hand shopping, it really does come down to a matter of personal taste. But I for one love mixing vintage and market treasures with the new in children's rooms. It gives a space a warmth and originality. There are plenty of great markets in Melbourne worthy of a weekend wander in search of nice pieces and as well as something special for a child's room, you're pretty much guaranteed of coming home with some spare change.
I take a wander up to Camberwell market every now and again and always find great stuff however it is rare to feel like you've unearthed a great find at a great price. That pleasure is reserved for the far more suburban little markets and some of the best are in Bayside or close by. Bentleigh market, held every Sunday in the railway station carpark, is my favourite - as well as the occasional vintage piece, it is also a mecca for those searching for second-hand children's toys, books and clothes.
The Cheltenham market, held in the multi-storey carpark behind the main shops, is also worth a look.

Mickey mouse and Noddy collection from Bentleigh market