Convertible cribs are meant to transition from crib to toddler bed to full-size bed, growing with the child that occupies it. But even if that soon-to-be 16 year old can still use it and the rest of the 5-piece set, it might be time for a change.

Shauna and Rob wanted to gift their son, Robert III with a bedroom transformation for his birthday. He is an extraordinary high school student and growing young man, but his bedroom didn’t reflect that. The old paint stripes, sports lighting, plaid bedding, and dated cherry furniture was in desperate need of an upgrade. Here’s where things began:

BEFORE:

See what I mean? Not bad for a Atlanta born & raised ‘00s baby, but this high schooler was ready for a change. When his parents asked what Robert’s must-haves were, his wanted a darker space with pops of blue, black, and a the adult version of a race car bed (which we actually considered for a little bit, but then pivoted for something more functional LOL). He also was wanted some form of LED lighting on the walls or ceiling, another thing that his Mom wasn’t so sure about. However, the one thing Rob, his parents, and I agreed on was that the space needed new life more mature look and feel. Here’s what I dreamed up:

MOOD BOARD:

The family was thrilled with my design plan. We’d give the walls a fresh coat of paint in a beautiful blue hue, then create a some texture behind the headboard with a few stained slats up the ceiling. We would then replace all the furniture - bed, nightstands, dresser, add a desk for homework and a comfortable chair (for reading or gaming) - and layer in neutrals and texture with linen curtains and a new soft rug. We also updated the lighting in the on-suite bathroom and bedroom with something more linear and modern. Lastly, we repurposed a lot of the decor such as Robert’s metallic NBA posters, karate belts, trophies, and Atlanta apparel. I don’t think another young man in his class has a cooler room than this. Here’s how it turned out:

AFTER:

I’m so grateful to this family for trusting me with this pandemic project and being patient through all the furniture delays experienced. I definitely think the final result was worth the wait, and huge smiles and words of gratitude received from Robert will be with me forever! Up next, the family’s game room in the basement! Super excited to bring it to life!

To see more photos of Robert’s bedroom, check out Varsity Blues in my Portfolio and #ProjectVarsityBlues on Instagram.

Be Blessed,

ACG

Design Deets:
Bed – CB2

Nightstands – West Elm

Desk – West Elm

Desk Chair – CB2

Dresser – West Elm

Recliner – West Elm

Rug – West Elm

Paint – Loyal Blue by Sherwin-Williams

Chandelier – Kuzco Lighting via Lumens