Considerations

• A corkboard provides a place for photos.
  
  When planning your teen's room, keep in mind that it not only serves as a sleeping area, but it is most likely going to be where she does homework and school projects. This is also where your teen will do the majority of her entertaining and playing. Make certain your plans include space for each of these major activities. If she has a hobby, be sure to keep that in mind in your planning phase.
  
  

Organization

• Shelving for media and mementos.
  
  One of the most important elements of a teen's room is ample storage and organization. Teens are busy with school, friends and extracurricular activities, so they have little time for straightening or cleaning. Make sure you provide a large desk space with room for computer or laptop as well as a well-lit area for reading and writing. Plenty of drawers and shelving will help your daughter keep the clutter down and remain organized and focused. Add labeled containers for bulky items such as sports equipment or off-season clothing. Add pegboards or corkboards for hanging friends' photos and memorabilia so that it doesn't end up on the floor. Shoes can be organized in the closet with an over-the-door hanging shoe rack. Ikea has some inexpensive choices in desks, shelving and drawers.
  
  

Bold Colors

• Turquoise walls make a colorful splash.
  
  Teens love vibrant colors, so listen to their choices and find creative, bold ways to incorporate their favorites. Shades of purple are popular with teenage girls; add a splash of green or orange to brighten up the space. Paint the walls purple and add 1-foot horizontal gold stripes or giant bubbles of green. Allow their rooms to be filled with creativity and it will serve to enhance the time they spend there.
  
  

Finishing Touches

• Once the color choices have been made, it is easy to decorate accordingly. Kids seldom enjoy making their bed, so make it easy on them and simply use a bottom sheet and a duvet. One quick toss and the job is done. Choose bedding to match the wall colors; find a soft, comfortable chair that they can easily snuggle up in to read; and again, provide good lighting. Add a large, room-size rug with big, fluffy pillows for friends to hang out and relax on. She'll also love a full-length mirror strategically hung to get the whole picture of herself before she leaves the house.