Study Space

Creating an organized study space for your teen is key to keeping them focused and on task.  First, decide exactly what your teen will be using the desk for...homework, hobbies, artwork, etc.  Next find a desk with enough drawers to keep all their items in place.  You can also add small baskets inside the drawers to keep pens, brushes, and other small items corraled in one spot.  I also like to have shelves, if you don't want a desk with a hutch, you can add floating shelves above a desk for the same results.  These shelves can house books, magazine files, and trophies.  I like this desk system from Pottery Barn, but you can get the same results with less expensive pieces. 

If you are a DIY'er like me, find a great desk at a second hand store and have your teen help repaint it in a color they love, add new hardware, and even decorate the top or add a piece of glass.  Adding a piece of glass will allow your teen to add photos, movie tickets, and other memories underneath to create a memorable collage.

Let's Start in the Closet...

Organizing your teens closet first will give them a place for everything.  You may even find storage spaces for things you don't usually keep in the closet.  Try hanging shelves for sweaters, shoes, and purses.  If you are lucky enough to have shelves in your closet already, add decorative storage boxes to house the same items.  If you are starting from scratch, closet organizing systems can be found at Lowes, Home Depot, and Target.  Take measurements with you along with a list of items you hope to house in the closet, this will make it easier to select the right pieces for the job.  I have found great ideas at The Container Store.  Think of the closet as part of the room.  Removing the closet doors is also a great way to ensure your teen will keep it neat.  The theory is if they can see it..they will have to keep it organized. (We hope!) 

Happy 2012

Hey Everyone, Happy New Year and welcome to 2012.  This is the year to make important changes.  Teenagers can be difficult, but take the time to spend with your son or daughter and it may become easier.  Now is the time to get that blackhole of a teenage bedroom organized (with the help of your teenager, of course)  Over the next few days, check back for ideas on creating a comfortable and organized bedroom you and your teenager can both live with.