SUMMER TIME
ONE thing to love about this time of year is the amount of tennis and cricket on view – and how passionately the kids become involved. Makes you think, is it time for a room makeover to transform a boy’s room to incorporate his young man’s passions?
Photo: Houzz.com.auFace it; he’s not your little boy anymore. Yes, I know he is growing up way too quickly, but there’s no denying it: your son is now taller, stronger and most definitely smellier than you! So how do you transform a boy’s room into a pre-teen’s retreat? The first thing you DON’T do is give your hormonally charged bouncing boy carte blanche – otherwise you might end up with a room that resembles a dungeon! But with a little planning and cooperation, you can work together to bring a little style and create a room that will reflect the person he is growing into.
Sports mad
Photo: Houzz.com.auAustralians are sport-mad! And, you’ve probably sat through umpteenth training sessions, Saturday morning cricket and after-school footy games. An easy way to bring his passion for sports into his living space is to incorporate his obsession –whatever the sport may be – into the decor. An easy and striking method is to paint the walls in your son’s favourite team colours. Bold stripes make a great statement and will match any other accessories or paraphernalia your son already has. Matching bed sheets and pillows can continue the theme, but be careful not to pick anything too juvenile. A fabulous way to add art to the walls is to frame a jersey! And, don’t neglect the medals and trophies collecting dust. Create a feature wall using bookshelves to show-off his achievements.
The final frontier
The telescope is collecting dust and the old solar-system mobile is missing a few planets. But, your young man is still a science nut. Throw away the galaxy-print linen and create a more grown up vibe. A framed periodic table of elements poster is both stylish and educational. Another black and white framed print of one of his science heroes (say, Albert Einstein) will add sophistication. Magnified electron microscope images of bacteria are also fascinating and certainly a talking point. And don’t forget a smart bookshelf along with a mini-step ladder for his growing book collection. Science beakers come in all shapes and sizes and can double up as pencil holders and chic accessories.
Totally addicted to bass
Photo: Houzz.com.auWhether he’s in the school band or he aspires to be a DJ, music is what gets him up in the morning (or even keeps him locked away in this room for hours)! Get rid of the ratty band posters and look for other memorabilia such as old concert ticket, T-shirts or drumsticks, you’d be surprised what you’ll find on online auctions sites. Again, framing these and adding plaques really add a further dimension. Vinyl records can be bought cheaply and can create wonderful artworks with a little imagination. Decals of music notes, a wallpaper-border with a music theme or even a mural can transform boring walls. Don’t forget some funky lighting and “Keep out” sign on the door!
Whatever your boy’s passion, it’s important to listen to what he likes (it’s his room after all), work within a budget and remember his tastes – just like his moods – are guaranteed to change!