A Place To Hang

Smart design and lots of color give this family a stylish space where teens can spend time.

When these homeowners built an addition to their house, they were able to incorporate a bonus area. The versatile space serves as this teen retreat now, and it can be turned into a guest suite or home office when their children move on to college.

The teens were eager to have their own space where they could hang out with friends, watch television, and listen to music. They also were excited to participate in the room’s design. With a little time, money, and energy, the family created a hip and happening haven that is casual and comfortable as well.

A Simple Scheme

As fans of home decorating shows, the style-savvy teens requested cool colors and fun touches to punch up their space. The parents wanted plenty of storage to control clutter and a snack station to minimize trips to the kitchen. And because the area will be used by both kids and guests, durable, easy-to-clean surfaces were a must.

Playful Palette

The first step was to formulate a vibrant color scheme that would suit both boys and girls. The room’s cool palette—light green walls, crisp white trim, and blue and sage-green for accessories and furniture—gives the space a fresh, preppy feel. For the floor, the family decided on innovative carpet tiles, which not only add visual interest but also pull together the overall color palette. The teens chose several styles of the tile, which they used to create a random design.

Smart Storage

At one end of the room, cabinetry was installed for refreshments and storage. The safe, efficient snack station lets the teens serve themselves. The other cabinet stores games and cleaning supplies. Up above, sleek shelves keep cups and plates within reach and display decorations. At the other end of the room, a freestanding wire unit is used as an entertainment center, holding a television on the top shelf.

Topping It Off

On a shopping trip to Lowe’s, the kids saw outdoor lanterns they loved and decided to use them for the room. Flanking both doors, the fixtures serve as general illumination. A floor lamp provides movable task lighting for reading or games. To maximize natural light, the windows and French doors are dressed with cool, casual Roman shades. The family built a simple low table where the kids can play games and do homework. Comfy furnishings and colorful accessories complete the room.

With just a few items and some easy installations, the teenagers now have a space that is perfect for hanging out—one that, with a few adjustments, will be equally perfect for hosting guests or accommodating a home office in the years to come.

Kim Hildenbrand

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