Top Tips for Designing the Perfect Teen Bedroom
More than a place to sleep!
Designing can be overwhelming, but adding a space for a teenager to the mix can stump even the most decor-savvy homeowners.
Lets face it, teenagers change their minds like they change their clothes, and in an effort to give them a space they love, many parents go through a merry-go-round of themed decor which can be downright exhausting (not to mention very expensive). Creating a space that captures their personality but doesn't “scream theme” is the secret to creating a design that will last.
In order to keep redecorating to a minimum and make it much easier down the road, here are a few tips that will take the guesswork out of decorating for teens.
Skip Themes
Instead of going all out on a themed bedroom, think about how to take parts of what your child loves and incorporate them on a much smaller scale. For example, instead of choosing a theme with logos, use elements from a space such as a character's or celeb’s bedroom or place they frequent.
Include Them
Have conversations about what they want from the space as well as how they see themselves using it. Is there an overall feel that emerges? Get familiar with the vibe they are going for, and use this info later.
Plan Ahead
Create a design board, shopping list, and list of any projects that may need to be done in the space. Think about how they will use the space; then create a plan based on that. Being prepared will help to curb any mindless spending and keep the design on track once it's time to shop.
Our sample homeowners knew their teenage daughter wanted a space that felt more grown-up, and the number one thing on her list was a bigger bed!
When kids get older, the sleepovers kick into overdrive, and having extra space for friends was very important to their daughter. After several years of struggling through sleepovers with a twin bed, her parents knew it was time to upgrade.
Instead of going with a ready-made bedroom set, they decided to mix and match the furniture pieces. Since the size of the space was limited, they went with a neutral low-profile bed that came in the size they needed without any extra bulk.
They then swapped out the black chest of drawers for a white dresser with lots of extra storage.
Choose three to four colors to use in the space; this will keep the space looking cohesive and intentional.
The color palette for the space was pulled from a gorgeous Loloi rug, which gave the room a dose of vintage style. The velvet terracotta curtain panels and pillows add a more feminine vibe and were a huge hit with their daughter.
Narrow Options
Set your teen up for success by ensuring all of the choices align with what they have shared. This step helps teens to feel in control and will keep parents from playing the guessing game.
Invest in Classic Pieces
Choosing neutral pieces that will easily work with any style is a great way to get the most bang for your buck.
Adding different textures throughout the space will keep it from falling flat. Think baskets, velvets, chunky knits, or linen blankets. Using different types of texture layered throughout will ensure the space feels cozy.
These homeowners kept accessories to a minimum in order to leave room for more personalization down the road.
Overall, the space ended up being the perfect starting point for their daughter in this new phase of her life. After many different looks over the years, the homeowners feel confident knowing that when the space needs an update, it can be done on a small budget because they invested in pieces that can be used for years to come.
Project Allen Designs is a Home Decor and DIY blog based out of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma This husband and wife DIY + Design team take you with them as they make their 2000's builder grade home their own.
