From homework to hangout: Smart and stylish ideas for kids' and teens' spaces

Creating vibrant and functional spaces for kids and teens can be an exciting endeavour. These areas are not only where they study and play but also where they express their personalities. With the right design approach and Resene palette, you can craft spaces that nurture creativity, promote learning and reflect the unique preferences of growing minds. Let’s explore six captivating ideas to help you design kids' and teens' spaces that stand out.

 

Sporty corner

A block of Resene Fast Forward defines this Resene Sea Fog wall. The dresser has been given plenty of character with triangles of Resene Truffle, Resene Bismark, Resene Permanent Green and Resene Thumbs Up on a Resene Alabaster base. The round noticeboard is in Resene SpaceCote tinted to Resene Noir over two coats of Resene FX Magnetic Magic so that it is both magnetic and works as a chalkboard. Project by Annick Larkin, image by Melanie Jenkins.  

For your active and sports enthusiasts, design a haven that celebrates their favourite activities. Try Resene All Black or Resene Billabong for an edgy, sporty vibe with pops of colour in Resene Malibu, Resene Wham or Resene Havoc. Add in sports-themed decor, such as jerseys, equipment displays and motivational quotes from athletes, as well as investing in multifunctional furniture like a bed with storage drawers for sports gear, and décor that supports their studies like this magnet and chalkboard for notes and reminders. Create a space that not only reflects their passions but also promotes an active and healthy lifestyle. 

 

Study in style

Add some colour and style to your teens study space with a print like Resene Wallpaper Collection M47703, giving magazine cut-out vibes.  

Designing a study space that's both functional and stylish can boost focus and productivity. Introduce pops of colour through vibrant Resene wallpapers and accessories, ergonomic chairs and motivational artwork. This setup will encourage good study habits while reflecting your teen's personal style – and will also be a space they will want to spend time in. Use colours within the wallpaper to inspire your surrounding wall colour, such as Resene Cashmere, Resene Corn Field, Resene French Pass or a neutral like Resene Alabaster. Check out the Resene Pop Wallpaper Collection for more trendy teen wallpaper prints. 

 

Adventure awaits

In this adventure themed room, the upper wall is painted in Resene Sea Fog, lower ‘wave’ wall in Resene Explorer, floor in Resene Colorwood Mid Greywash, pendant lamp and DIY life preserver in Resene Raging Bull, dresser in Resene Tangaroa, Resene Raging Bull, Resene Pirate Gold, Resene Half Black White, bedside table on left in Resene Half Black White and Resene Tangaroa, large plant pot in Resene Tangaroa, lidded basket and small pot in Resene Pirate Gold and lidded dish and vase in Resene Raging Bull. Pillowcases and duvet cover from Città, throw and blue cushion cover from H&M Home. Project by Laura Lynn Johnston, image by Bryce Carleton.

Kids adore fairy tales – especially ones that tell exciting adventure stories about pirates, cowboys or knights. They often imagine themselves as the heroes of these fantasies and are inspired to act out them out during playtime. Some play with dolls and dream to be a queen or king, others collect comics and pretend to thwart evil villains. By approaching decorating with the same level of imagination, you can help to bring their magical worlds to life by creating a bedroom which take ideas from your child’s favourite stories or characters. This theme fosters a love for learning about the world and ignites a passion for discovery. 

Pick your colour palette depending on the theme you or your child has chosen. For example, for a desert cowboy theme, you could use sandy and clay browns like Resene Wild West, Resene Gold Coast and Resene Hot Toddy. For a forest fairy theme, try Resene Green Smoke, Resene Woodland and Resene Groovy.  

 

Artistic expression

A memorable Zoom and video chat background add energy to this study space. The background is painted in Resene Black White and mural in Resene Coconut Ice, Resene Skylight, Resene Rulebreaker, Resene Tequila Sunrise, Resene Indian Ink, Resene Roadster and Resene Funk. The floor is in Resene Colorwood Breathe Easy, desk in Resene Indian Ink, coat stand in Resene Baring Head, chair in Resene Funk, folder in Resene Skylight, pen holder in Resene Tequila Sunrise, vase in Resene Roadster and pendant in Resene Illuminate. Project by Annick Rennell, image by Bryce Carleton.

Encourage artistic talents in young minds by designing a creative studio. We looked to the French artist Henri Matisse for design inspiration for this uplifting patterned room. His use of colour was revolutionary, he believed colour could express emotions and ideas in a way that no other medium could. Try fun patterns paired with eclectic decor to transform mundane spaces, like a study space or home office, into a fresh new energising environment - productivity and creativity can increase too with a little playfulness and zest added to a space! This space nurtures self-expression, fosters confidence and celebrates individuality, and if you’re looking to start with a blank canvas, use neutrals like Resene Black White or Resene Sea Fog before adding colour, or try using Resene FX Chalkboard Paint on walls, allowing kids and teens to doodle and express themselves freely. 

 

Beachy hangout

If your teen wants an all-black room and that seems a little scary, meet them halfway with a trendy dark green, like these walls painted in Resene Olive Green. The palm tree mural and stool are painted in Resene Celeste, floor and pendant in Resene Spanish White, books in Resene Vis Vis, Resene Celeste and Resene Fawn Green and tray in Resene Olive Green. Bean bags from The Warehouse, pitcher and drinkware from Briscoes. Project by Melle van Sambeek, image by Bryce Carleton.

If the soothing sound of crashing waves or the thrill of riding the surf are the epitome of paradise for your kids, a beachy surf-themed space is the way to go. While this palette is not one you would typically expect for a surfie-themed room, the tonal blend of bushy, army and cargo greens is very chic and trendy. To take the comfort factor up a notch, bring in some bean bags for the ultimate relaxation spot where kids and teens can hang with their friends.  

For a more traditional beach theme, try a feature wall in Resene Astronaut Blue, a galactic blue that is faraway and serene. Paint a palm tree, beach ball, waves or even simple stripes in lighter Resene Awash to keep the blue colour scheme going. Finish the look with floor in warm Resene Merino and accents in cheerful Resene Energy Yellow or traditional Resene Sand. Read our latest advice on painting wall murals here.

 

Whimsical wonderland

In this playful and imaginative tween room, the wall is painted in Resene Half Spanish White, with mural in Resene Soulful, Resene Tulip Tree, Resene Whizz Bang, Resene Love Me Do, Resene Green Pea, Resene Kandinsky, Resene Envy and Resene Green Meets Blue. The floor is in Resene Colorwood Mid Greywash, table base in Resene Sauvignon, pendant lamp in Resene Sunglo, mirror in Resene Just Dance, headboard in Resene Redwood, trinket box in Resene Half Pale Rose (bottom) and Resene Sunglo (top), basket in Resene Half Spanish White and tiny vase in Resene Sorbet and Resene Half Pale Rose. Striped pillowcase from Society of Wanderers, duvet cover and floral pillowcase from Rachel Castle (Castle & Things), throw from Kip & Co. Project by Annick Larkin, image by Bryce Carleton. 

Bring the magic of fairy tales to life with a whimsical wonderland theme. Use imaginative wall murals depicting enchanted forests, castles and playful characters, let your imagination run wild! This theme encourages storytelling, imaginative play and a love for exploration. Soft pastels create a dreamy ambiance, for other shades, try gentle blues or greens like Resene Frozen and Resene Peppermint or peaceful pinks and purples like Resene Poet and Resene Vanilla Ice.

 

Designing kids' and teens' spaces involves a careful balance of functionality, creativity and personalisation. Listen to their interests and get them involved in the colour and theme choices to ensure they absolutely love their new space. Whichever design you choose, it will offer a unique way for young minds to thrive in a space they can truly call their own.

For more advice on paints, colours and wallpapers head to your local Resene ColorShop or Ask a Resene Colour Expert online.

Published: 06 Sep 2023

Do you have a home full of wonderful Resene paint and colour? Send us some snaps by emailing [email protected].

Square square colour information icon
Square square colour information icon

Resene Vanilla Ice

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×
Square square colour information icon
Square square colour information icon

Resene Half Pale Rose

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×
Square square colour information icon
Square square colour information icon

Resene Green Meets Blue

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×
Square square colour information icon
Square square colour information icon

Resene Energy Yellow

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×
Square square colour information icon
Square square colour information icon

Resene Black White

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×
Square square colour information icon
Square square colour information icon

Resene Green Smoke

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×
Square square colour information icon
Square square colour information icon

Resene Raging Bull

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×
Square square colour information icon
Square square colour information icon

Resene Pirate Gold

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×
Square square colour information icon
Square square colour information icon

Resene Half Black White

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×
Square square colour information icon
Square square colour information icon

Resene French Pass

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×
Square square colour information icon
Square square colour information icon

Resene Half Alabaster

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×
Square square colour information icon
Square square colour information icon

Resene Permanent Green

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

register h icon  look book

Create your own mood boards of your favourite colours, photographs and information from habitat by resene.

Login or Register to get started!

×

the look

If you're stuck on what
colour to use or need colour
advice, try out the Resene
Ask a Colour Expert service.