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Thursday, September 6

12 STEPS TO A HAPPY TEEN BEDROOM

Teen Bedroom Makeovers

With a new school year upon us, now is the perfect time to give that teen lair an overhaul — and hopefully eke out a bit of quality bonding time in the process. To make this a successful decorating experience, it helps to keep an open mind about your teen's creative direction. Recognize that he or she has good ideas, and at the same time set clear limits that work for you (a project budget, paint but not wallpaper etc.) for results that will make both of you happy in the end.

Ready to get started? See how to transform the chaos into a fun and functional teen space in 12 simple steps.
eclectic kids by RLH Studio
by RLH Studio
by RLH Studio
1. Start an ideabook and create a floor plan. Gather inspiration images and collect the best in an ideabook on Houzz. Just looking at all the images together should help clarify what your son or daughter wants. Once you have the general style nailed down, sketch out ideas for the new floor plan.

Style notes: A taller-than-average bedside table can do double duty as a desk — a great space saver in a small room. Also, think about adding a focal point over the headboard. A quirky sculpture, artwork or a pretty textile are all good choices. Just be sure anything that could fall on the bed is very well secured and not too heavy.
2. Think about color and lighting. Once you know the look you are after, it's time to think about paint. Use extra-large paint swatches or get sample-size amounts to try out colors directly on the wall before buying enough for the whole room to avoid a misstep.

Lighting can instantly make the biggest change in a room, so now is also the time to create a lighting plan. Add ambience with café lights strung across the ceiling, install a dimmer switch for an overhead fixture and don't forget proper task lighting for the homework area.
3. Decide which furniture to keep. As you are going through the room, note which pieces you want to keep and which will be sold or given away. But before buying anything new, consider updating existing furniture with fresh paint or knobs, and look around the rest of the house (including in the attic and the basement) for forgotten treasures.
4. Shop for new items.Look for pieces that can also be used in a first apartment (or dorm room) to get the most bang for your buck. Small side tables, cushions, throw blankets, lamps, and small-scale armchairs will all be most welcome in those first digs away from home.
eclectic bedroom by Annie McElwain Photography
by Annie McElwain Photography
by Annie McElwain Photography
5. Go on a "cool junk" hunt together. Make a date to hit a flea market or antiques and collectibles fair to see what you can find. Bring cash (only as much as you want to spend), measurements of key areas and a dolly or cart to carry home your finds.

Style note: Wire storage lockers like the ones shown here are superversatile — use them for everything from shoes and scarves to craft supplies and books.
6. Incorporate photos of friends. One of the downsides to taking mostly digital photos is that we tend to print photos less often. As part of this project, be sure to give your teen the opportunity to have some recent pictures printed — some to frame and others to tape up in a rotating display.

Style note: Japanese masking tape (also called washi tape) comes in a mind-boggling array of colors and patterns, is easily removable from most surfaces and can be used in tons of ways (like in the photo display seen here). A set would make a lovely gift for your teen when this project is complete.
7. Try a small DIY project. Air plants and succulents are having a real moment in design, and they have the benefit of being easy to care for. If you and your teen are in the mood to tackle a crafty project, I love this DIY air plant terrarium tutorial on Houzz. It's chic and easy, the best combination!
8. Update the homework zone.Ground the work area with a creative and useful chalkboard wall, or include a large bulletin board for pinning up lists, photos and inspiration. Pay attention to the ergonomics of the space as well, making sure the chair and desk are at the right height. Good task lighting is essential, and any additional storage you can squeeze into the space will help maintain order. At least consider a small filing crate and a basket for recycling.
9. Add an entryway. In my experience, most messes come from the junk we put down as soon as we enter a space. Help prevent the big chaotic pileup before it begins with a few preventative measures: A coat tree or wall hooks will hopefully keep those coats and bags off the floor, and a dresser or table placed near the door can be a drop zone for mail, keys and other odds and ends.
9. Provide hangout space. If you have the room, bring in a retired couch from the basement or attic. If space is tight, try a fluffy area rug with a few big floor cushions instead.
11. Add an unexpected touch. Every room should have something that immediately catches your eye or makes you smile, and your teen's room is no exception. Make the room glow with a cluster of cheap and chic paper lanterns, scoop up a funky neon sign or a vintage marquee letter at the flea market, or frame a portrait of a favorite pet.
12. Give hobbies and interests pride of place. Skater? Guitar player? Surfer? Chess champion? Whatever makes your child's heart sing should definitely get top billing in the room.
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