As children grow into young adults, their rooms often evolve to reflect their changing interests and needs. By age 13, tweens are developing more independence and desiring space that feels like their own. When designing and outfitting a room for a 13-year-old, there are many factors for parents to consider in order to create a functional, comfortable, and age-appropriate environment.
Storage
With 13 year olds accumulating more possessions, storage space becomes an important element in their rooms. Here are some storage ideas to incorporate:
- Dresser – For folded clothes and other belongings.
- Closet – For hanging clothes and larger items.
- Bookshelves – For books, collectibles and display pieces.
- Cubbies – Wall mounted cubbies are great for stashing shoes, bags, sports gear.
- Underbed storage – Plastic bins or roll out drawers work well for storing out of season clothing.
- Nightstand – Bedside table with drawers for personal items.
- Desk storage – Drawers, shelving and organizers for school supplies.
Having adequate storage space helps keep clutter contained and the room neat.
Seating
Seating areas allow a tween space to lounge, socialize with friends, read, play games, use devices or do homework. Seating options can include:
- Bed – Twin or full size bed frame with comfortable mattress and bedding.
- Desk chair – Adjustable, rolling desk chair for doing work at a desk.
- Armchair – For additional seating and reading area.
- Beanbags – Fun, casual seating for floor lounging.
- Bench – Can double as seating and storage at the end of a bed.
- Gaming chair – Ergonomic, high-backed computer chair.
Sleep
Getting sufficient sleep is important for physical and mental health during the teen years when school demands ramp up. Help teens get better rest with these tips:
- Blackout curtains to block light for sleeping in.
- White noise machine or fan for sound blocking.
- Comfortable bedding – soft sheets, warm comforter, plenty of pillows.
- Eye mask and ear plugs if needed for light and noise sensitivity.
- No TVs, phones or technology right before bed.
- Bedtime routine – unwinding rituals to transition to sleep.
Study Space
Having an effective study space is essential for academic success with increasing homework demands. Key study area components include:
- Desk – Large enough for doing homework with surface to spread out materials.
- Task lighting – Focused bright light for reading and schoolwork.
- Desk chair – Supportive, adjustable chair that fits correctly at the desk.
- Bookshelves – For holding textbooks, binders, notebooks and other resources.
- Bulletin board – For pinning up reminders, calendars and inspiration.
- Organization – Trays, bins, drawers and desktop organizers to stay tidy.
Locate the study area in a quiet spot away from distractions and noise.
Decor
Letting teens take the lead with decor allows them to show off their personality and interests. Decor ideas include:
- Color – Allowing teens to pick wall colors makes the space feel like their own.
- Artwork – Framed posters, photography prints and wall decals liven up walls.
- Pillows and throws – Fun accent pillows and cozy throws personalize bedding.
- Plants – Low maintenance greenery adds freshness.
- String lights – For soft ambient lighting.
- Rugs – Rugs add color, texture and define spaces in the room.
Remember to give teens a budget for purchasing decor items they like within reason.
Technology
Technology devices are a big part of a 13-year-old’s life for communication, entertainment, learning and more. Tech gear for their room can include:
- Laptop computer for homework needs.
- Smartphone for staying connected with friends and family.
- Tablet for streaming content, reading, and playing games.
- Speakers – Bluetooth speakers to listen to music.
- Headphones – For private listening without disturbing others.
- Charging station – To keep devices powered and organized.
Set screen time limits to prevent technology overload.
Games
Gaming and activities provide fun ways for teens to unwind, pass time alone or socialize with friends in their rooms. Have these on hand:
- Board games and card games for group play.
- Puzzles and building sets for solo downtime.
- Game console like Nintendo Switch gaming system.
- Arcade style games – mini basketball, hockey, pop-a-shot.
- Darts, air hockey or other active games.
Comfort
Making sure a tween’s room has comfortable amenities will encourage them to spend time relaxing in their personal space. Comfort additions include:
- Plush area rug – adds softness and warmth to floors.
- Reading nook – a cozy chair with side table and floor lamp for reading.
- Soft blankets and pillows for snuggling while reading or watching TV.
- Mini fridge stocked with favorite snacks and drinks.
- Fan, heater or AC unit to control temperature.
Shared Spaces Considerations
For teens sharing a room with a sibling, consider these tips for maximizing functionality:
- Bunk beds – Allows efficient use of floorspace with beds stacked vertically.
- Two desks – Provide each teen their own designated study area.
- Split storage – Divide dressers and closet space for each to have their own.
- Privacy – Use screens, curtains or dividers to delineate personal space for each.
- Compromise – Encourage cooperation in decorating to represent both occupants’ tastes.
With some creative planning, shared rooms can still feel like personal retreats for each teen.
Safety
Making sure a tween’s bedroom setup is safe is a top priority. Safety considerations include:
- Proper bedframes with supportive mattresses, no unsafe modifications.
- Guardrails for top bunks.
- No loose wires – secure and hide electric cords.
- Use power strips with surge protectors instead of overloading outlets.
- Working smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector.
- Window locks for security if on ground floor.
- Proper ventilation and temperature regulation.
Conduct regular safety reviews to identify and correct any issues immediately.
Cleaning and Maintenance
While teens should be responsible for cleaning their own rooms, parents can promote good habits with:
- Providing cleaning tools – duster, vacuum, cleaning solutions.
- Scheduled cleaning times – daily tidy up, weekly deeper clean.
- Checklists – Breakdown cleaning steps into clear tasks.
- Organization – Proper storage to control clutter.
- Laundry routine – Clothes hamper, regular washing bedding.
- Air circulation – Open windows, run fans to avoid musty smells.
Offer rewards for keeping their room clean like a bigger decor budget or extended curfew.
Budget
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Bed | $200 – $800 |
| Mattress | $200 – $1,000 |
| Dresser | $100 – $500 |
| Desk + Chair | $200 – $600 |
| Storage | $100 – $500 |
| Decor | $50 – $500 |
| Games | $100 – $500 |
| Technology | $500 – $2,000 |
| Total | $1,450 – $5,900 |
Creating a functional teen bedroom requires an investment, but focusing on key pieces can help keep costs reasonable.
Conclusion
Designing a bedroom for a 13-year-old involves balancing factors like privacy, self-expression, functionality and safety. Provide ample storage, comfortable seating, study space and technology access tailored to their needs. Allow tweens to take the lead on decor and reinforce good habits. With some guidance, teens can have a bedroom retreat to reflect their growing maturity and independence.
