Guest Blogger #271, Entry #782, November 25, 2011
I’m a mother of two boys. As a decorator, I’ve had the chance to work with all-girl families and I have to say that, when it comes to decorating for my own family, apparently I’m very lucky. That’s because my boys don’t care if their walls are aqua or royal blue, nor do they care to know the difference. Girls are a whole different story. Anytime I ask a girl about her ideal bedroom decor, she has a million-and-one very specific ideas about what she wants. And, as girls grow and change, their needs and tastes change, too. Unless you plan on redecorating every time your little girl gets to be a little bigger, it’s important to take future design needs into consideration now so as to avoid a complete renovation when your pre-teenager becomes an actual teenager. Here are things to keep in mind when designing your pre-teen daughter’s room, so that it will last through her teenage years.
Image via: Home Furniture Interior
Furniture
Bedroom furniture will be the biggest expense you will incur when redecorating, so it is in your best interest to choose furniture that is both appropriate for pre-teens and for teenagers. While a pre-teen may just flip over a pink poster bed, that same bed may be embarrassing for a teenager. Also, keep in mind that pre-teens and teenagers grow fast. If you have the space, it might be best to choose at least a full sized bed. Teenage girls can be very fussy about having to sleep in twin beds.
The power of paint
Paint is inexpensive, and can completely transform a room. However, paint can be labor-intensive. If you don’t mind rolling up your sleeves every few years, then it’s not a bad idea to let your little girl choose whatever color she wants and prepare yourself for a few future paint jobs. Otherwise, choose something more neutral, like a buttercream, which is great for off-setting all things girly.
Accessories
These will inevitably change over the years, as your daughter collects things that are special to her. The one big investment that will need to last is a bedding set. It’s a good idea to go with an abstract pattern, stripes, plaids, or a floral. Avoid trendy character-based prints, which quickly go out of style. It is also a good idea to purchase a basic comforter filler, then one or more duvet sets, so that the bedding can be changed periodically to keep the look fresh, and to keep a finicky teenager smiling.
Image via: Design Wagen
Designing your pre-teen daughter’s room to last through her teenage years doesn’t have to be all that complicated. Just keep these simple guidelines in mind to prepare some options, then let her choose (as you know she likes to do).
Ebony Cran is an interior designer who loves working with individuals of vary ages and tastes. She enjoys incorporating Metrofax email faxing and other online services into her day to day routine so she can spend less time worrying about an office and more time worry about your designs.
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Gillian Warmkessel says
Where can I buy the white bed with attached storage unit that is featured in the Pre-Teen Daughter guest blogger piece? I adore it! Thank you!
Ronique says
Hi Gillian!
I’m not positive, but I think Pottery Barn may have a similar model, or you can follow the ‘via’ link below the picture to see if they have any more information for you! Good Luck to you!
Sarah Kaisner says
I love the blue and purple quilt in the pre-teen bedroom! I would love to know where it’s from!
Thank you!
Ronique says
I’m not sure exactly – it could be Pottery Barn. 🙂