Designing for Tweens & Teens

Save The Walls

Regardless of the paint color, it seems to be a rite of passage to plaster tween and teen walls with posters, pennants and other mishmash items.  But tacks, staples and tape can wreak havoc on paint and drywall, and all of the visual details can feel chaotic.
Solution: Designate certain walls as collage walls and put up large-scale bulletin boards, burlap-covered foam core or cork tiles (available in hardware and art supply stores) to protect the underlying walls and create areas where anything goes.

Teen Bedroom

Photo: Design by Lisa

It’s About Balance

Designing a teenager’s room is usually a matter of balancing things your teenager wants now with a look that will last through high school.  This teenage boys’ room uses a fun and boyish brown-and-blue palette that will work for years to come. Custom built-ins around the bedframe can showcase knickknacks and trophies.

San Francisco High Rise 001

Photo: Kendall Wilkinson Design

Easy Breezy

In this airy bedroom, a built-in unit around the headboard makes great use of the limited space without impinging on other walls, keeping an open feel. Also, as this blue-and-green scheme demonstrates, adding bright colors to a predominantly white room injects energy and life without closing things in. Stick to one or two hues so that the room doesn’t get too busy.

Daniel Island 4

Photo: Structures Building Company

Keep The Peace

If they prefer the confines of their bedroom, why not take their lead and run with it by painting their room a deep shade, such as navy. Navy walls can turn any room into a peaceful retreat from the world – and all teenagers need a place like that from time to time.
Transitional Bedroom
Photo: Houzz