How do you keep a teen’s bedroom from getting messy?

It’s a fact that some people — teenagers included — are messier than others. So take this time to encourage good organizational habits that will serve them in the future. The most important step in keeping any room neat and tidy is ensuring there is enough storage space available. No amount of daily cleaning will prevent a bedroom from getting messy if there’s nowhere to store things. Also, you may need to come to terms with the fact that your teen’s idea of a tidy bedroom isn’t the same as your own. Accepting these differing perspectives (within reason, of course) is a crucial part of giving your teenager some independence.

What size mattress is best for a teenager?

The best mattress for one teenager may not be the right size for another. In most cases, however, a twin or full mattress will suffice. There’s nothing wrong with allowing your teen to place a larger bed in their room — square footage permitting. But that space would probably be put to better use with a computer desk or extra storage!

Tips and Ideas for Designing a Teen's Bedroom

If interior design is your passion, giving up control of even one room in your home can be hard! So it’s super common for teens and parents to butt heads when it comes to decorating the former’s bedrooms.

One of the best things you can do is work with your teenager to incorporate their personality and style into a space that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Check out these teen bedroom ideas for inspiration you both will love!

1. Transform Your Attic into the Teen Bedroom

Most teens would jump at the chance to call an attic bedroom their own. And many parents are keen on the idea as well!

Cozy loft bedroom with a wooden desk, chair, and sofa. A loft bed is above, and a ladder leads up. Natural light from a window brightens the room — Source: @10_interiors via Instagram

Attic bedroom with black and white decor, striped bed, yellow side table, dresser, and "Game Over" sign; geometric rug on floor — Source: @eclecticsquares via Instagram

Cozy bedroom with pink decor, featuring a white hanging chair, a desk by the window, and a bed with plush pillows — Source: @karroogcarrydesign via Instagram

Cozy attic room with a bed, geometric lights on brick wall, a desk with a large TV, red and black chair, and decorative pillows — Source: @lucybelle_athome via Instagram

Cozy bedroom with exposed beams, geometric wallpaper, and a double bed. Decor includes framed art and a unique arched window — Source: @ourlittlechapel via Instagram

If your home’s architecture allows, an attic bedroom is a wonderful way to bridge the gap between childhood and teenage independence.

Basic necessities aside, decorating a teen room in an attic isn’t much different from any other. Be sure to prioritize lighting — don’t take the room’s windows for granted. Since few attics feature separate closets, you’ll also want to invest in plenty of storage-boosting furniture.

2. Boho-Chic: The Perfect Teen Bedroom Aesthetic

While Bohemian decor has made its way into the mainstream design world, it’s still a favorite among teens and young adults. Actually, Boho-inspired decor is an excellent choice for teen bedrooms precisely for that reason.

Cozy bedroom with a patterned blanket on the bed, round straw mirror, small plant on a stool, and a pendant light on the wall — Source: @lotsofstyle.nl via Instagram

Cozy bedroom with a rattan bed, leaf-patterned bedding, and art on the wall, complemented by a small plant and macramé decor to add warmth to the space — Source: @macramebymel via Instagram

Bright bedroom with a gray bed, patterned pillows, wall art, plants, a white side table, and a desk by the window with natural light — Source: @matteetglossy via Instagram

Cozy bedroom with a grey headboard, yellow accents, decorative pillows, framed art, orange lamps on end tables, and a feathered light — Source: @shiku_interiors via Instagram

A Bohemian bedroom melds the whimsy of a child’s space with the more mature aesthetic many teenagers are looking for. So this style is extremely easy to adapt over the years as your teen’s personal style morphs and matures.

Plus, there’s no need to redesign your teen’s bedroom from scratch. Existing furniture can be seamlessly integrated alongside more Bohemian elements like pillows and wall decor.

3. Design a Teen Boy’s Personal Haven

Stereotypically, teen boys care little about their bedroom decor. But there’s a good chance it’s because they don’t know where to start creating a space that feels like their own.

Bedroom with green accent wall, deer head decor, and blue bedding, featuring a plaid blanket, wooden bench, and blue curtains complete the look — Source: @cristina__lyn via Instagram

A cozy bedroom with a bed, TV, and a window, featuring a framed jersey and large "20" decor on the wall as a cat lounges on the bed — Source: @home_bythepark via Instagram

Cozy bedroom with dark blue walls, bed with a Union Jack dog pillow, blue throw, shaggy rug, and paddle decor on the wall — Source: @petsrock_israel via Instagram

A cozy room with a bed, blue cushions, a desk with a chair, a world map on the wall, and decorative elements

Encourage your teen to display their most cherished items as decor — jerseys, instruments, and sports memorabilia are all great examples. Take the time to frame posters and similar items (no matter how cheap) for a more polished aesthetic.

As far as color is concerned, neutrals are always a safe bet. Dark shades of blue, green, and gray are also popular choices for teen boys’ walls, bedding, and pillows.

4. Elevate Your Teenager’s Bedroom with the Right Color Scheme

Since teens’ interests notoriously change at the drop of a hat, many parents are hesitant to invest in a dedicated color scheme for their bedrooms.

Bedroom with R2-D2 wall art, bed with orange pillows, desk with computer, orange chair, and colorful checkered rug — Source: @amberlambeinteriors via Instagram

Bedroom with geometric mural in blue, yellow, and gray, bed with dark bedding, floating shelves with books and plants, and ambient lighting — Source: @juliepopainteriors via Instagram

Modern bedroom with a blue and gray theme, featuring a bed, desk, chair, bookshelves, and a window with a scenic mountain view — Source: @meblik.bulgaria via Instagram

Bedroom with a star-themed bedspread, Fortnite pillows, dark blue walls, and toy figures on a windowsill — Source: @reno_at9 via Instagram

Color is the backbone of any good design. If you’re concerned about committing to a bold color scheme, there are many ways to reach a compromise!

Accent walls are a way to bring color to a space without painting the entire room. Peel-and-stick wallpaper is another awesome choice that comes in practically every color and pattern imaginable. Use an area rug for the floor and accent pillows to tie in the bedding.

5. Create a Modern Teen Room Reflecting Unique Personality

Modern decor is an excellent way to curate your teen’s bedroom ideas without stealing their creative outlet.

Minimalist room with a green wardrobe, white desk, ladder shelf, framed photos, and a cozy bed alcove under a skylight — Source: @nmdesign_interieur via Instagram

A cozy bedroom with a neatly made bed, soft pink and gray bedding, a side table with a lamp, and a teddy bear by the pillows — Source: @piiatuuli via Instagram

A stylish bedroom with a bed, wooden accents, a desk with a chair, and floral wall decor; cozy and modern design — Source: @priciladalzochio via Instagram

Cozy bedroom with a navy chair, bed with yellow and gray bedding, desk with lamp and decor, and framed art on white walls

Emphasize furniture and decor that serve a purpose. Ideally, everything in a teen room should be both functional and aesthetically pleasing at the same time. The one exception to this rule is wall art.

This is also a wonderful opportunity to teach key organization skills. Map out your teen’s storage needs — it’s important to set them up for success by providing ample space! — and incorporate them into the final design.

6. Design a Cozy Bedroom with Dark Colors

Your teen’s bedroom may be the only space they can truly call their own. And a dark color palette is a great way to make that space feel cozy and private.

Cozy bedroom with a large wall calendar, a bed with white bedding, and a floor lamp; a desk with a lamp and a corkboard is nearby

Keep in mind that dark does not automatically equal black. Navy blue, gray, and many other colors can be used for a more subdued effect.

Ramp up the coziness factor with multiple ambient light sources throughout the room — focus on areas that will be used for studying or other tasks. Integrated LEDs can also be used to great effect in this way!

7. Enhance Your Teen’s Bedroom with a Daybed

In many ways, your teen’s room may function more like a studio apartment than a regular old bedroom. So why not lean into that reality with a design that accommodates hanging out alone or with others?

A cozy gamer-themed bedroom with a bed, game controller print bedding, emoji pillow, brick wall, and string lights — Source: @becs_homelife via Instagram

A cozy bedroom with a triangular ceiling feature, elegant couch, floral artwork, and lamps on bedside tables — Source: @cokesys_designs_ via Instagram

Cozy daybed with pink and white pillows in a floral wallpapered room, featuring a beige rug and a white side table with decor — Source: @mycreativedays via Instagram

Children's room with a gray bed, blue bedding, and a car-themed rug. Blue accent wall with letter "H", bookshelf, and Monaco poster — Source: @mysussexabode via Instagram

A day bed is the perfect alternative to a traditional bed frame if you’re looking to add versatility to your teen’s bedroom. Of course, you should still invest in a high-quality mattress and bedding.

Pair the day bed with functional furniture like a side table or ottoman. This bedroom layout can also make it possible to include a dedicated study area.

8. Incorporate a Teen Desk into Bedroom Design

Teens are adaptable, and won’t hesitate to blow dry their hair or do homework while sitting on the floor. Including a desk in your teen’s bedroom design will ensure they have a dedicated spot to complete these day-to-day tasks.

Modern home office with L-shaped desk, chair, and shelves. Large window with a view of trees. Cozy bench with cushions and books — Source: @dieraumelfen via Instagram

Minimalist vanity with a white desk, modern chair, hexagonal mirror, and pendant light under wooden beams on the ceiling — Source: @taniasabio.estudio via Instagram

Modern bedroom with a small sofa, bed, desk with a computer, and two framed prints; blue LED lights line the ceiling edge — Source: @villa_nevala via Instagram

Modern bedroom with a single bed, desk, shelves, sailboat model, toy cars, and a large window with boots by the door

To save floor space, opt for a slim floating desk or one that is built into any existing piece of furniture.

Skip the bulky office chair in favor of a compact chair that can be slid under the desk when not in use. Use shelves on the wall above for extra storage space and to display decor.

9. Stylish Teen Girl’s Bedroom with a Feminine Touch

Your teen girl may have outgrown princesses and tiaras but that doesn’t mean she’s ready to ditch girly decor altogether.

Bedroom with pink walls, a bed with pink and white bedding, a decorative horse picture, and windows showing a green outdoor view

One of the easiest ways to make a teen girl’s bedroom feel feminine is with your choice of colors. Despite what many believe, pink can 100% be used in mature interior design! It’s all about the particular shades you choose.

Soft textiles and decor are a must for the average teen girl’s space. Fill design gaps with florals or lush greenery.

10. Go with the Budget-Friendly Industrial Decor

Industrial decor is trendy, accessible, and loved by all genders and ages. It is the perfect design aesthetic for any teenager eager to show off their more mature tastes.

Bedroom with a metal bed, gray bedding, gaming setup, steering wheel controller, posters of the Moon and Mars, and decorative crate — Source: @_maple_house via Instagram

Cozy bedroom with a red and black plaid theme, featuring a bed, chair, locker, tricycle wall decor, and car-themed artwork — Source: @cathy_debresser_knowler via Instagram

Cozy bedroom with a metal bed, basketball on the pillow, wood accent wall, green-painted wall, and a window with sheer curtains — Source: @mycreativedays via Instagram

Minimalist bedroom featuring a bed, electric guitar, desk, chair, shelves, and rug, illuminated by natural light from large windows

Since industrial decor is all about the details, it’s a godsend for those looking to redecorate a teenage bedroom on a budget. In many cases, all it takes is a new light fixture and a coat of paint to give a space an industrial edge.

While a teen’s bedroom is unlikely to include exposed plumbing or ductwork, you can mimic the look with metal furniture and decor.

11. Consider Adding a Loft Bed

Spatial creativity is a must in any type of room design. But especially so in a multi-use space like a teen bedroom.

Modern loft with floating wooden steps, black and orange cushions on a white couch, and framed photos on a dark wall — Source: @cecilia.viagens via Instagram

Modern loft bedroom with a blue bunk bed over a blue desk, beige chair, and cozy bedding; wood and plaid decor accents — Source: @priciladalzochio via Instagram

Loft bed over desk setup with chair, striped rug, and wall decor in a bright, modern room — Source: @raquelcurrais via Instagram

Lofted beds are commonplace in shared bedrooms — there’s no better way to fit two mattresses in a small space. However, a lofted bed can also be a great way to free up floor space for a desk, seating area, and more.

Since lofted beds tend to conjure images of children’s bunk beds, you should focus on keeping the rest of the room relatively mature. This will ensure your teen’s bedroom still feels age-appropriate.

12. Embrace Neutral Tones in Bedroom Design

It can be hard to watch our teens ditch their childhood decor in favor of a more subdued aesthetic. But it’s still incredibly important to support these changes as they occur.

Modern bedroom with wooden floors, a gray accent wall displaying sports balls, sheer curtains covering the windows, and a bed to the left — Source: @giliresheffgol via Instagram

Small bedroom with a bed, TV, wardrobe, desk with a globe and tablet, shelves with plants, and a pendant light — Source: @my_bramhall_home via Instagram

Cozy bedroom with a wooden bed frame, gray and white bedding, BB-8 toy on headboard, and framed photos on a light wall — Source: @withmrsquick via Instagram

Cozy bedroom with a wooden bed, white bedding, side table with flowers, and slippers on a round rug; lamps provide soft lighting

Minimalist bedroom with a single bed, wall-mounted shelves, a desk with a computer, and a large window with curtains in beige and white tones

Neutral shades might seem like an odd choice for a teen room. Yet the versatility of this color palette is unmatched.

If your teen prefers the look of all-neutral decor, that’s totally fine. A neutral color scheme leaves plenty of room to play around with bold prints, textures, and materials.

13. Create a Scandinavian Inspired Bedroom

Scandinavian decor is an offshoot of modern design that you’re surely familiar with even if you don’t recognize the terminology!

Cozy bedroom with a modern design, featuring a wooden headboard, decorative pillows, a map on the wall, and potted plants — Source: @home.caffeine.cacti via Instagram

Bright, modern bedroom with a bed, hanging chair, small desk with laptop, and decor on white walls; large window lets in natural light — Source: @sigalmalka_designer via Instagram

Modern bedroom with white bedding, abstract wall art, a lamp, and decorative accents

Modern bedroom with a gray quilted bed, wooden wall, desk with a white chair, geometric lamp, and a white bicycle

If your teen wants to adapt this trend to their own space, start with a bright and airy color scheme. Fill the room with warm neutrals or go bold with a black-and-white color scheme.

While Scandinavian decor features the same simplicity and angular profiles as other modern styles, it stands apart in several ways. Most notably, Scandinavian living spaces are filled with organic materials like wood, stone, and wicker.

14. Go Simple with the Shared Room Design

In many homes, giving each teen their own room just isn’t possible. Efficient design is crucial to maintaining a sense of independence (and keeping the peace between siblings!).

Modern bedroom with two twin beds, geometric patterned accent wall, ornate round mirror, and pendant light; soft pink and gray decor — Source: @claudiaschultheis_interiorismo via Instagram

Modern bedroom with two neatly made beds, neutral colors, wall sconces, and a large window with blinds. Cozy and elegant design — Source: @key.designs via Instagram

Wooden bunk bed and desk, striped wallpaper, and wooden floor in a bright room with natural light; modern and minimalistic design — Source: @patriciapasquinidesigner via Instagram

Cozy bedroom with two beds, pink and gray bedding, fluffy pillows, a central window with curtains, and a modern light fixture — Source: @shiku_interiors via Instagram

Place the beds as far apart as the floor plan permits. Lofted beds are a great way to add separation and privacy without eating up valuable floor space.

Since it can be hard for two teens to agree on an aesthetic, keep the furniture and walls relatively simple. The inhabitants can then add a personal touch with smaller pieces of decor on each side of the room.

15. Arrange a Compact Teen Bedroom for Space Saving

Chances are, you’re not going to give up the master bedroom to your teenager. So making the most out of a fairly small bedroom is a top priority.

Two twin beds with gray quilts, a wooden shelving unit in between, and a small bedside table with a lamp in a modern bedroom — Source: @casakidsbk via Instagram

Minimalist bedroom with a single bed, geometric green steps, pale wood storage cabinets, and decorative shelves against a yellow and white wall — Source: @designforkids via Instagram

Modern bedroom with white furniture, loft bunk bed, desk, chair, shelves, and large window. Natural light on wood floor

Some space-saving teen bedroom ideas are extremely straightforward. For example, a Murphy bed can be used to essentially double the functionality of a single room.

Investing in furniture with built-in storage can also save a ton of space. With the right under-bed cabinets or drawers, you could completely eliminate the need for a separate dresser.

Tips and Ideas for Designing a Teen’s Bedroom