In the 50s, pretty much everyone believed that robots would be commonplace in every home by the year 2000, and I have to admit, having grown up with Tomorrow’s World in the 80s, I kinda hoped it would be true, too. Sadly, with maybe the exception of Japan, our world is lacking in automated help, but that doesn’t make robots any less popular among small children. With they’re simple shape and ability to take on different characters, they also make a fantastic theme for a child’s room. Clifford Richards’ robot clock epitomises the mid-century visualisation of robots – loving the mini UFO in the background. £31.50, Magma.
Contrary to popular belief, robots are not just for boys. And pink is not just for girls. How cool is this wallpaper by Aimée Wilder? Gender-stereotype bending all the way. Hurrah! Not cheap, but a great statement. £92, Little Fashion Gallery. If you’re not into the whole wallpaper thing, or you like more subtle (temporary) wall decor, let me introduce you to this friendly waving chap. About £19, Etsy.
As much as we love robots. But sometimes their sharp metal corners make them a bit difficult to cuddle. Say hi to our super-soft retro looking robotic gang – the perfect size for little hands, they’ll become constant companions. They’re only £2 from Shop BG.
For an even more subliminal nod to the robot trend, I’d recommend Peters and Janes robot Ninety Nine Robots and a Rocket print. Just lovely. £21.25, Not on the High Street.
I think my favourite robot product ever is Albert, Our Children’s Gorilla’s super-cool hook. Alfie loves his, which is wall-mounted at his height below our coat rack, and I love him for his screwy eyes and hands-in-the-air pose. £20, Ten Little Monkeys. Albert also has a little brother (or son?) Albert Jr if space is at a premium.
In terms of bedlinen, the only real option is Ferm Living – the green and blue pattern is completely divine and I can’t imagine any little one not immediately adoring it. Or any grown-up, in fact. £89.95, Cloudberry Living.
There’s a glut of robot cushions on the market, but the best I’ve found is this knitted lambswool wonder by Sara Carr, £44. You can’t beat a turquoise and chocolate brown colourway as far as I’m concerned.
Now this is amazing. He is so kitsch and marvellous I might need to adopt him. Made of resin so cool to the touch, aka perfect as a nightlight for scared-of-the-dark littlies. £55, Rose & Grey.
I’m constantly on the lookout for cool storage solutions and boy, does the Robox meet that criteria. Designed by Dane Guus Oosterbaan, the system comprises nine storage boxes that can be used together or as a set of three to create a single robot. €75, Ludi-Sign.
Finally, if you’re looking for a toy to complement your robot decor, then Plan Toys’ Build a Robot does the job. Four heads with different expressions can be interchanged to create your own robots – a fabulous thing. £19.99, Babipur.
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