Behind The Design: A Dream Teenage Bedroom
Welcome to our very first edition of Behind the Design – where I will be giving you VIP entry into the creative process behind some of our favourite projects. To kick things off, I’m excited to share the transformation of a 17 year old girl's bedroom – a space designed for relaxation, studying, and a bit of fun, all while keeping it fresh and sophisticated.
The Brief
When we were first approached to redesign this teenage bedroom, the goal was clear: create a space that balances relaxation, study time, and a touch of personality, all while embracing the client's love for pink without going too "girly." And then came the neon lighting - she loved fun, neon lighting to add some mood and drama in the evenings or whilst she had friends over, so that was a must have. For us as designers, the key to children’s bedroom designs is balancing the room being fun and relevant to the child, whilst still giving it room to grow with them. No-one wants to be redesigning a room every 3 years!
So, how do you marry these elements? With our thoughtful, comprehensive design service, of course.
A Total Transformation
The room had so much potential, but it was a classic case of a space that wasn’t being fully utilized. We focused on key design elements to create different zones for different activities, each with its own vibe and atmosphere.
Lighting became a key feature of the room. We completely redesigned the lighting layout, incorporating a statement pendant, wall lights, picture lights, and LED strips that change from warm white to vibrant neon – all on separate dimmable circuits to create varying moods. The highlight? A "Good Vibes Only" neon sign to add a touch of fun!
Bespoke Joinery played a major role in shaping the room’s functionality. I designed a custom desk and shelving area with fluted detailing on the doors and gorgeous oak worktops and shelves. The bespoke wardrobes with motion-sensored lighting and the added oak shelves in the existing wardrobe gave the room a cohesive, organised feel.
One of the trickiest challenges we faced was the existing bespoke coving. Originally, we planned to run the joinery right up to the ceiling, but it wasn’t feasible to match the intricate coving. Instead, we brought the height down slightly and added a complementary cornice, which not only solved the problem but also created a lovely shadow gap that gave the room even more depth and dimension.
Layered Textures
One of our key approaches to design is “laidback-luxe” and this room demonstrates that throughout. To create a space that felt both cosy and relaxing, we layered materials thoughtfully. From delicate linens to plush velvets and wool, each element was chosen to complement the others. One of my favourite details is the satin pink trim by Samuel & Sons on the Roman blinds – it's a subtle yet stunning addition that adds a touch warmth and femininity.
The deep "Peacock" velvet headboard is another favourite. It’s luxurious and sumptuous, providing a perfect contrast to the lighter elements in the room and picking out the green tones of the inset wallpaper in illuminated panels around the room. Paired with the darker wood bedsides, the combination adds a touch of sophistication to an otherwise fun, feminine space.
And let’s not forget the showstopper – the statement pendant light by Pooky, which nods to a classic disco ball design and plays with the natural light in the room in the most stunning way.
A Special Moment
One of my most memorable moments during this project was when the bespoke joinery was installed. Seeing the desk come together in a space that was once cluttered and underused was a true "aha" moment. It felt like the room finally clicked into place.
What’s Next?
I hope you enjoyed the behind-the-scenes of this bedroom transformation. Stay tuned for the next edition, where I’ll be sharing the Behind the Design of our Dorset Cottage project – it's a whole different design style, and I can't wait to show you!
