How to Evolve a Teenager's Bedroom
As September rolls around and the last of the boxes have been packed into the car, it hits you - your teenager is officially off to university. It’s a bittersweet moment, filled with pride, nostalgia, and the sudden realisation that there’s now an entire room in your home that’s... available (albeit part time).
With my own daughter leaving last week for university, it’s taken me a few days to feel brave enough to venture into her bedroom, and not feel too blue at the remnants of her childhood. Blank spaces on the wall, fairy lights drooping sadly over a faded desk and even some dirty laundry to attend to. Sad as I feel, I still want the space to still feel like hers - a safe haven to come home to during the holidays - but I can also see an opportunity to reimagine the room as a calm, considered guest space the rest of the year.
If you’re in the same boat, here are my thoughts - both as a mum and an interior designer - on how to gently evolve a teenager’s bedroom into a stylish and functional guest room, without stripping it of its heart.
1. Start with a clear out (with permission!)
Before diving into colour palettes or furniture placement, begin with a respectful declutter. Invite your teen to help decide what stays, what goes, and what can be packed away for the future. This isn’t about erasing their presence - it’s about making space for the next phase of the room’s life.
Consider storing sentimental items in attractive under-bed boxes or woven baskets. These storage solutions can blend seamlessly with the new decor, keeping their childhood close without it dominating the space.
2. Create a neutral foundation
Teen bedrooms are often a riot of colour and personality - and rightly so. But if you’re aiming for a space that feels inviting to guests and still comforting for your child, it’s worth paring things back just a little. Opt for a soft, neutral colour palette - think warm pinks, blues, soft taupes, or easy-to-live-with greens. These tones bring a sense of calm and sophistication that works for both guest stays and student visits. To add depth and warmth, layer textures through soft furnishings - linen throws, velvet cushions, or a wool rug. This is where the art of interior styling truly shines.
3. Upgrade the bed (but keep the comfort)
The bed is the centrepiece of any bedroom, so this is an ideal moment to consider an upgrade. If your teenager has been sleeping on a small or tired bed, now’s the time to invest in a quality double or small double. It will make all the difference for visiting guests, and your child will appreciate it after weeks of a university mattress! Choose a timeless bed frame - something upholstered or wooden in a classic shape. Then layer up with crisp, high-quality bedding in natural fabrics. Add a few scatter cushions and a throw to pull the room together with understated elegance.
4. Incorporate flexible furniture
Functionality is key in any guest room design, and this is where clever storage and multi-purpose furniture come into play. Swap out bulky teenage furniture for slimmer, dual-purpose pieces. A compact desk can still serve your university student during the holidays, but consider a design that doubles as a dressing table for guests. Add a stylish mirror, and you’ve instantly elevated the look. An ottoman or storage bench at the end of the bed provides a handy place for guests to pop a suitcase, while also storing extra bedding or keepsakes.
5. Add personal touches that grow with them
The key to keeping the space emotionally connected to your child is in the details. Frame a few photographs from home, or hang one of their art prints in a proper frame. A scented candle they love or a book they were always rereading can stay on the bedside table. These small nods help them feel rooted when they return, even if the room has matured.
6. Lighting, lighting, lighting
One of the easiest ways to instantly elevate any bedroom design is through considered lighting. A layered lighting scheme makes the room feel cosy and adaptable. Use a combination of ambient lighting (a ceiling pendant or flush mount), task lighting (a sleek desk lamp), and accent lighting (bedside sconces or a reading lamp). Dimmable options are ideal to set different moods - perfect for guests winding down after a long journey or for your child studying over the holidays.
7. Welcome Guests Thoughtfully
Finally, think about the details that make a guest room feel considered - a carafe of water on the bedside table, fresh towels in a woven basket, a small vase of seasonal flowers. These touches take moments but make all the difference.
As interior designers, we know that great design is never just about aesthetics - it’s about how a space feels. And when a room balances memory, functionality, and style, it becomes something truly special.
Final Thoughts
Transforming your teenager’s bedroom as they head to university doesn’t mean saying goodbye to the past. It’s about evolving the space to meet the needs of your home now, while still honouring the person who grew up in it. Whether you’re welcoming overnight guests or greeting your child for a weekend visit, this is your chance to create a beautifully designed, multifunctional space that everyone can enjoy - and we’d love to help.
Until next time,
Chloe