Empty Nest Re-Do

How to Convert Your Teen’s Bedroom

Your child is off to college, leaving you with mixed emotions and your nest empty. But look on the bright side: you finally have the extra space for that guest bedroom, home office or yoga studio you’ve always wanted. Here’s how you can convert your teenager’s bedroom into an adult-friendly space without completely disenfranchising your child.

Reorganize

While packing up your offspring’s belongings into boxes is probably too soon, it doesn’t mean you can’t strategically reorganize his or her stuff to create more room for you.

A good place to start is decluttering the nightstand and dresser. Corral keepsakes and personal effects left behind in pretty trays or baskets tucked into a dresser drawer, so it’s all still easy to access. And what about that collection of prized memorabilia or stacks of books? Dedicate a couple of wall shelves, floor-to-ceiling cubbies or a tall bookcase to neatly curate a display that keeps intact your child’s personality and charm.

Naturally, the closet is prime storage space for your workout gear, crafts, office supplies or guest linens. Pack clothes and shoes in long, flat storage boxes that can be stored under a bed or on the top shelf of the closet, and toss in a sachet of lavender to keep everything smelling fresh.

Redecorate

When redecorating your teenager’s bedroom, it’s a good idea to strike a balance between achieving a more mature décor and keeping a youthful vibe. You want to create a space that’s appealing to adults yet offers a friendly, familiar place for your child to come home to. Keep it fresh with a neutral palette, energetic pops of color and graphic patterns. Think white walls and solid bedding brought to life by a bold, geometric rug, Ikat throw pillows and brightly colored lamps.

Replace those rock band posters with a gallery wall of framed family photos. Or, hang a grid of burlap-wrapped message boards, assigning each one a different theme: photos, inspiration board, calendar and reminders.

Repurpose

Depending on how you plan to use the room, you may need to rearrange the furniture or even invest in a few dual-purpose pieces. You can create more space with a daybed or a sofa sleeper that folds out into a bed for overnight visitors. And if you have myriad hobbies, ditch the old corner desk for a table that’s large enough to serve as a gift-wrap station, sewing center and desk in one.

Or, perhaps you’d like to keep the bed, but wouldn’t mind a small workspace. In this case, choose a slim desk that can also serve as a night stand. If you intend to mainly use the room as a guestroom, consider adding a bench or pair of stools for additional seating and a place for holding luggage (even your child home from college will appreciate this). Lastly, a bedside tray with a pitcher and glasses for water is always a lovely touch.

What are your ideas for an empty nest re-do? Tell us in the comments below.