How to design the perfect teenage retreat

If your kids are heading off to high school next year, now’s the time to help ease the transition by creating a functional bedroom space they can call their own. It’s also a great way to connect with your young adult and work on a fun project together. Melissa Chandler, Director of Central Coast NSW-based property styling company Spruce & Bloom, gives us her expert tips for creating the perfect teenage retreat – where to start, types of creative items to include, and some great styling ideas.   [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="690"] The use of electronic devices mean you can forgo a big desk for a smaller one, which frees up space for a chill out area in your teenager's room.[/caption]  

Q: Where’s the best place for inspiration? Where do we start?

A: Designing a new teenage bedroom should be a fun, collaborative project, so definitely involve your son or daughter right from the beginning. Hop online and look at Pinterest together, check out The Block's take on kids' bedrooms, create a mood board, and then have fun shopping for a few key items. Don’t forget, as much as you’ll want to have the final say, this is their room, so indulge them in a few quirky items here and there.  

Q: Other than a bed and some basic storage, what are the key items to include?

A: Traditionally the answer to this question was a big desk to help your teenager adapt to the pressures of high school study. But with teenage media usage consistently rising, it might be best to create a media station or study nook closer to the family room or kitchen. Not only will you be able to oversee homework and internet usage, this will also increase opportunities for you to connect with your young adult. A desk is still important, but forgoing a big desk for a smaller one then frees up space for a chill out area in your teenager's room. A bean bag or even a small sofa can become a zone for reading, playing an instrument, gaming or even just daydreaming – something all teenagers need to do now and again. An interesting outlook is also an important element for a teenager’s room and one that is so often completely discounted. A flowering tree or even a simple palm outside the window can make a welcome distraction from tablets and phones, and serve as a reminder that the natural world is out there to explore.   [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="690"] Taking a playful approach to the conventional coat hook, Muuto dots can be arranged in infinite numbers and combinations in a variety of sizes.[/caption]  

Q: What about colour schemes and other styling tips?

A: Choose a colour scheme together, and then throw in a wildcard colour or texture in small doses, like a clock, a cushion or an ornament. If in doubt, try some black accents which are timeless. Use shelves and hooks such as Muuto dot hooks to imaginatively display personal items like ballet shoes, a guitar or a skateboard. Some teenagers may have collected treasures from their younger years that they’d like to keep safe in a special storage item or unique box. Have fun searching sites like Society6 for bright, graphic art that will give the room some instant cool credibility... and of course, a dose of fun. And don’t forget a touch of greenery. A great plant always adds atmosphere and a stylish pot also offers a welcome splash of colour or texture to a room. Take a look at Melbourne homewares store Pop & Scott’s social pages for some pot plant inspiration. [alert style="alert-at-home-inverse" dismissible="false"]

What teenage bedroom design tips do you have?

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