So your kid has decided they're too old for their childhood bedroom — and honestly, fair enough. At some point, every teenager needs a space that actually feels like them. The trick is letting them take the reins without completely losing control of the process (or your wallet). Here are a few tips to make the whole transition as painless as possible — and with a bit of luck, it'll last until they finally fly the nest!
Tips for transforming your kid's bedroom into a teenage sanctuary
Declutter first
The most important place to start is with a declutter of all their current toys, bits and pieces. If they don't want your help with this part, provide them with three large boxes to sort their items into, throw away, give away and keep. This will allow them to make some definite decisions over their possessions with what can stay and what needs to go.
Keep the main elements neutral
Just like in the rest of the home, it is best to keep the large surfaces of the room neutral. This includes things such as the walls and window coverings. You certainly don't want to be re-painting every summer or switching up the curtains with each change of season, so ensure the selection process here includes muted tones. Think modern and fresh, but stick to greys and whites; you'll be adding in colour later.
It needs to be practical
While you want the room to serve a nice purpose, as a bit of a retreat, or hang out for your teenager and their friends, it still needs to meet everyday needs. So, don't forget storage and if the space is on the small side, invest in a really good wardrobe setup. Help them maintain good habits (and lessen the load for you) by using labelled boxes so they can give all their possessions a home.
Think about all sorts of other organising elements, too, like shelving and hooks, as the less left on the floor, the better. And a desk! These days you can shop online and find all sorts of very trendy homework stations that are more chic and sleek rather than clinical and oppressive. Plus, because technology easily hides away when not needed, 'i.e. laptops and tablets,' a desk can be multi-purpose.
A couple of core colours
With your base elements kept neutral, this means that the accessories can inject some colour into the room. It's best to keep it to two or three, and try not to go overboard as it may come across as too 'matchy-matchy' - you're looking to achieve a relaxed and casual feel.
Temporary wall stickers are also a good way to add something a little special to the walls and are easy to remove/change/update.
Keep it simple because tastes change
It's likely your child will have a favourite pop star, TV show or sports team. And while that is the flavour of the moment now, it will change. Whether that's in six months or two years, you don't want to have to remove all the décor and start again. So, try to steer them clear of focusing just on one aspect, but rather choose items that will last over time.
Cosy and comfortable
A teenager's room needs to be a restful haven where they can recharge and unwind, so we recommend adding a few comfortable features to the space. This includes accessories such as a soft floor rug, a throw, a cushion or two, and a window treatment that provides the right overall environment for the room.
Gather research online
Treat it as a chance to bond — spend some time together browsing Pinterest and room renovations to gather ideas and map out a vision for the room. There's no need for the process to feel overwhelming; take it at your own pace and tackle it as a team. Do that, and you'll both love the end result.
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