IN EXCESS : The Young and the Redecorated

Although Barrie Lockitch is only 10 1/2 years old, she knows the difference between Early American and Danish Modern. She should. When Barrie decided she wanted to change her bedroom, her parents hired a decorating consultant.

That would be Bunny Novick, founder of Kidspace, a Venice-based decorating operation that caters to children. Drawing from her dual background in interior design and child psychology, Novick started Kidspace less than two years ago to help households “avoid the power struggles between kids and parents.” Mom and Dad set the budget and the ground rules then leave the rest to Novick and Junior; parents do reserve final approval.

Kidspace’s 30-odd projects have ranged from a money-is-no-object kinderspread in Tarzana, complete with $100-a-yard imported Pop Art fabric, to Lockitch’s more modest Santa Monica digs, which were spruced up with a Techline study center, lodgepole pine armoire and bed and reconfigured wardrobe area. The price varies per project, but includes a consulting fee, a retainer and a percentage over the cost of materials. Novick works closely with the kids, taking them shopping or discussing lighting, space and budget. She also issues her clients a “Children’s Checkbook” to “pay” for the furnishings.

“You won’t find Barrie tossing her wet bathing suits all over this furniture,” Novick says. “After all, she wrote the checks.”