For teens in particular, the last month of summer always feels like a bit of a slog—there’s summer reading to get through, driver’s ed hours to log, and general nerves about the challenging coursework ahead. So why not make the month of August a little more enjoyable for your high schooler by helping them revamp their bedroom before the chaos of the school year kicks off? They’ll look forward to coming home from a long day of school, friends, and sports and unwinding in a space that’s equal parts serene and on trend.
Add Personality to the Nightstand
Sure, real flowers are great, but what teen is actually going to purchase a new bouquet each week? These ultra convincing looking faux roses from Red Orchard will do the job just fine while adding a hint of romance and charm to the bedside table. The whole look is giving quiet luxury, if you ask us.
They need somewhere safe to stash all of their baubles while sleeping or playing sports games, so this adorable trinket dish, also from Red Orchard, is a necessity. It looks like it could pass as a vintage find.
And because a good study session isn’t complete without music, they’ll need a bluetooth radio (that’s having a total retro moment) from Target to set the mood. It can also be used to play podcasts and audiobooks, of course!
Lastly, encourage them to actually print out one of the *many* snaps they’ve taken with friends this summer. Marshalls is full of affordable frames like this one that will make them want to go through their Insta feed and select a favorite pic to keep the good memories going.
Jazz Up the Bed
Checkered designs like the one on this Marshalls throw blanket are majorly in right now. A throw blanket will come in handy during late night study sessions in the fall and will also add a colorful touch to the end of the bed or an armchair when it isn’t in use.
A scalloped tray, like this one purchased from West Elm, is ideal for balancing drinks and snacks as needed—because we all know that sometimes, extra long study sessions overlap with dinnertime or breakfast.
Make the Desktop Shine
If your teen’s desk has the tendency to become a dumping ground for school notebooks and other papers, keep things in order with a magazine holder, which is perfect for filing away these types of items while ensuring they’re within sight and reach. This one from Red Orchard isn’t your typical piece of office supplies thanks to the scalloped design, which is super on theme!
Sarah Lyon is a freelance writer and interior design enthusiast who currently lives in Washington, DC. Her work has appeared on websites including Apartment Therapy, Architectural Digest Clever, Lonny, and MyDomaine. Additionally, Sarah’s own spaces have appeared on Apartment Therapy, The Everygirl, Houzz, and Washingtonian.com. Her Dupont Circle apartment was featured in both the spring 2019 print edition of Small Space Decorating and the January 2019 print edition of Washingtonian Magazine. Follow her on Instagram @sarahlyon9.
