Style at Home

When kids reach their teens,they want a space thatreflects their style. It willbecome their hideawaywhere they hang out with friends, as wellas a quiet escape for studying. But it’salso important to create a room wherethey can express their personality.A teenager’s bedroom is a hive of activityand creativeness, and every parent knowshow tricky it is to get their child to tidy upafter themselves, so storage is essential.Use boxes, baskets and bins to maximumcapacity and choose items that are bothefficient and pleasing to the eye. If you getyour child to help with the choices early on,they’ll be much happier with how it looks.``````Pick a themeEvery teenager has their own unique styleand tastes, so themed rooms work well. Ifyou’re worried about them outgrowing thescheme, choose accessories for an instantupdate instead. For instance, create a wallmural instead of hanging wallpaper, orinvest in new bedlinen and soft furnishings,as these can easily be changed if needed.However, do remind them that they mayhave to compromise on some of theirsuggestions so it complements the restof the house. A teenager’s favourite thingsare diverse and sometimes discordant, butwith careful planning and discussion, allideas can tie together beautifully.FOR TEENSBanish childish decor and embrace a more maturelook to please even the fussiest of teenagersCool ideas5 f unky schemes they’ll loveAdd some personal flair with these fun ideasA Girl CanDream by Jackiemagazine mural,from £55 per sqm, Surface ViewSPORTS MAD Create an All-Americanchanging room vibe with a basketballhoop and lockers for wardrobes.ROYAL FINISH Girls love grandfour-poster beds, so why not makea frame and fix it to a divan? Dress itwith fairy lights for a pretty ambience.DARK & DANGEROUS Painting theceiling a dark hue may not be yourdream idea, but it will give the rooma whole new feel and look very striking.``````STUDY STATION Paint an entirewall using blackboard paint. It’s greatfor homework reminders and friendscan leave fun messages, too. Or whynot try magnetic paint, so they canpin up family photos and notes.URBAN EDGE Be on trend with astylish graffiti wall. But before youarm your kids with spray paint, havea look at the City Graffiti wallpaper,£60 per roll, Graham & Brown.