Updating a Teenage Girl's Room for College

Study Area

• Your college student's room is not complete without a proper study area. Look around the space and create a plan. Choose an area with plenty of natural or artificial light and electrical outlets for computers, monitors, laptops and lamps. Invest in a desk with lots of tabletop space where she can have open books and take notes. If the bedroom has a window, position the study area where the natural light can assist her in her studies, yet where outside commotion will not distract. Choose a comfortable desk chair with sturdy lower back support.

Organization

• With so many classes and homework, your teenager needs a place to put everything. Use a bookcase and shelving unit to store books. Mount a dry-erase board and a calendar so she can remember important dates such as exams and project due-dates. Purchase a filing cabinet, dividers and manila folders. Store important papers and notes in individual folders and organize them by sections and classes. Gather pens or highlighters and toss into a vintage tumbler on top of the desk.

Extra Seating

• Homework is not all that multiplies when your little girl goes to college. She will make new friends through classes, study groups and extracurricular activities. Since she may have friends and study partners over on a regular basis, add a futon or small sofa and end table. If space is a consideration, install a pair of brightly colored bean bags on an area rug.

Accessories

• Now that time has changed and your daughter is growing up, retire her childhood decor since her interests and hobbies are changing. Cutesy stuffed animals and princess posters may have worked before, but they no longer impress. Switch out that pony lamp for a contemporary desk lamp. Hang a full-length mirror. Update the bed sheets and comforter set to match her current style. Place inspirational artwork and quotes above the headboard.