Teen Decorating

The interest of teenagers is so volatile that any "room decorating" must be non-permanent and versatile. While decorating might be out of the question there are some things you can consider to make a teenagers room function better.

Walls
Wallpapering walls that will be covered with life-size posters seems a waste of time and money. So give the room a fresh coat of good paint that will withstand the taping and retaping of "removable art."

Furniture

Check the state of your child's mattress, especially if he or she has been using the same one for some time. A new mattress might be in order for the remaining years your child will be at home. A decent, adjustable office-type chair and desk are good investments that can be carried over for future use of the room.

Storage
Consider a compact unit made to hold books, records, and stereo equipment. When your child leaves home (eventually, they do), you'll be able to make good use of this if the room becomes a home office, guest bedroom or den. Inspire your child to be neat by upgrading the room now. Closet systems are designed to make the most of this space and pull-out wire baskets add easy access drawer space for almost everything.

Self Image
A full length mirror in a teenager's bedroom and extra shelves for personal care items could free up some bathroom time. Wall pegs encourage easy clothes hanging . It's not pretty to look at soiled shirts hanging on the wall, but it's better than lining the floor and adds extra space for these items.

Carpeting
Sturdy, office carpeting is a practical solution for a teenager's room. If you carpet wall to wall the room will look neat and trim and be easy to clean. Add some over-sized floor cushions for seating. A duvet cover eliminates the need for a top sheet and bed-making is a cinch.

Copyright Leslie Linsley, author
Reprinted by permission HouseNet, Inc.

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