Rooms for Every Age
One of my favorite features in Vogue is "looks for every age," in which the magazine shows readers how to interpret runway looks in an age-appropriate way. In fact, "age-appropriate" just might be one of my favorite concepts.
It's a concept that works for rooms, too. Our houses naturally reflect our life stage - it's fairly easy to tell the difference between a room belonging to an early 20's recent college grad (IKEA!) and one belonging to someone older, who's had an opportunity to travel and amass stuff.
Here's a look at some perfectly age-appropriate rooms, and the qualities that make them so:
It's a concept that works for rooms, too. Our houses naturally reflect our life stage - it's fairly easy to tell the difference between a room belonging to an early 20's recent college grad (IKEA!) and one belonging to someone older, who's had an opportunity to travel and amass stuff.
Here's a look at some perfectly age-appropriate rooms, and the qualities that make them so:
Under 10: Bight colors and simple lines make this kids' room a fun space. Built-in shelves are a great place to store the millions of toys that kids collect, too.
Under 10: This would've been my little-girl dream room. I love the bright pink and green, and the Chinese parasols are so much fun. With a few tweaks, this has real potential to grow into a great teenage room, too.
Teenager: Two beds (perfect for sleepovers) and a giant map (to plot out future trips) make this a great room for boy and girl teens. It works, too, for younger kids.
Teenager: This chair and table are perfect for a style-conscious teen. Young and fun, but with some sophisticated elements.
20s: Decorating in your 20's is all about improvisation - that's why I love these boxes stacked as shelves. They're flexible - easy to expand, and to move! - and provide much needed storage, whether it's for old textbooks, photos in frames, or cool tchotchkes.
30s - People in their 30s often have young families, which means a lot of time in the kitchen. Open spaces are ideal for families with little kids - they make it possible to get something done while keeping an eye on the little guys.
40's - By the time you're in your 40's, you've probably started to amass quite a bit of stuff. A vase here, a book there - it all adds up, and can make for a very cool eclectic home that shows off your personality.
40s - Also, by the time your 40's roll around, you're likely to have a little more disposable income than when you were in your 20's, which means that expensive pieces (like an Eames lounge chair) are finally within reach.
50's and beyond - I'd like to think that as I get older, my taste will become more refined. This room has the kind of quiet elegance that I'm hoping will exist throughout my home - and in my wardrobe!