Living with teenagers can sometimes be challenging – mainly if space in the family home is an issue. Purchasing a new home, building, or renovating your current home to suit your growing family needs would be the ultimate solution to promote family harmony, but this is not always possible.
Accommodating teens at home comes down to the following features: space, storage, privacy, and independence. And, while it’s recommended that you include your teens and ask for their input, it’s not just about building separate spaces to hide away. You’ll want to consider including larger living or dining areas, too, so the family can have valuable ‘together time’ without feeling like you are on top of each other and overwhelmed by each other’s company.
Fortunately, plenty of ideas and changes can be made to make your home a more peaceful, happy and sane environment for the whole family without breaking the budget.
Their bedroom, their sanctuary.
No longer just a room to sleep in, a teen’s bedroom becomes their retreat and a place to hang out with their mates.
We may call it their “retreat”, but the typical teenager does not appear to require order and/or cleanliness for it to be considered that. In fact, they really don’t seem to see or smell what lies around them.Maximum ventilation and well-organised storage space is an absolute must and will hopefully eliminate the problem of the “floordrobe!”
Having a huge basket for all their dirties and another for all their rubbish may also help to keep some semblance of order.
Playtime
As much as we may hate it, the teen’s “play time” is often screen time, social media, online gaming with friends, or watching movies.
This is where the second family room, or converted spare bedroom, comes into its own – one for you and one for them.
It allows them to get out of their room and into the family home while giving them privacy and a space to hang out with their mates. Furnishing and finishes should be casual and functional, with oversized floor cushions and bean bags for easy lounging. Block-out blinds or curtains for privacy will also give teens more control over their environment, allowing this room to become comfortable at any time.
Taking it outside
The cubby house may not get much of a look these days, but the pool will be forever in favour during the Summer months.
Never underestimate the pool’s power for outdoor entertainment, giving the teens an alternate location to hang out. Beware, though, pool play is usually accompanied by loud music. But at least they’re at home, right?
The kitchen is more than the heart of the home
They sleep, eat, eat, sleep, and eat ALOT!
The kitchen will become their second favourite part of the home – after their bedroom. Food is a way of connecting and enjoying time with your teen, so ensuring a well-stocked pantry and fridge guarantees seeing them emerge from their cocoons regularly.
Large eat-in kitchens continue to be a staple communal space for most families. Plenty of comfortable stools around the bench or a nearby kitchen table will create a central hub for family admin and a natural place everyone gravitates to.
Add in a quiet study spot.
In the early teen years, the kitchen bench top or dining table works well for their study space. This space also allows for some supervision and guidance on their work. Creating a more secluded, quiet study space is necessary as they get older and have more in-depth assessments and homework requirements. Many opt for a desk in their bedroom, but if possible, it is a good idea to keep the study separate so that this zone can remain a retreat away from any stress-inducing distractions.
Transport
If you are in the process of buying a new home, keep in mind the need for easy access to transport for your teen. Their want for independence and being too cool to have mum and dad drop them places requires them to be able to jump on a bus or a train with minimal if any, effort from yourself.
If you are looking for a home that will better accommodate your growing family, contact Team Etchells to assist you, or head to our CLICK HERE to check out and see all our current listings.
Donna Etchells - McGrath Estate Agents 