Sherry and I were completely charmed by the bedroom Anna created for her two boys. Part of the appeal is practical curiosity — we don’t have a son (well, only a furry one, and he doesn’t claim his own room) — so it’s always fun to see how someone designs a space for young boys. Even more impressive was how Anna packed a lot of clever ideas into a room that could easily have been neglected. Look closely and you’ll spot a chalkboard closet, a cozy built-in desk, thoughtful storage solutions, and a handful of small touches that make the room both practical and stylish.
Here’s the note Anna sent about the project:
I just finished making over my two sons’ room and wanted to share the transformation. This was the room on a messy day before we began. There were many unused corners, and we knew the layout could work harder for us if we reimagined the space and planned for function first.
After planning and a lot of DIY work, this is where we landed. I realize boy rooms aren’t showcased as often as girl rooms, so it was fun to design one. The makeover took about six weeks — partly because I procrastinate sometimes, and partly because I handcrafted many elements like the curtains, duvet covers, and the desk.
Even though the room isn’t technically mine, I enjoyed curating each detail and making it inviting and useful for the boys.
Small, purposeful details—like personalized hooks by the door and a wall-mounted book rack—make a real difference. They reduce clutter by keeping things off the floor and give the room a tidy, intentional look.
We built a desk into the corner next to the bed, and that single addition greatly increased the room’s usability. It creates a dedicated space for homework, drawing, or quiet activities without consuming valuable floor area.
Above and beside the desk we added art and a few decorative accents that personalize the area without overwhelming it. The art anchors the workspace and helps define the corner as a cozy, purposeful nook.
Thanks for taking a look—–Anna
We’re grateful Anna shared her photos and the story behind the room. Several design elements stood out to us. The large wall map is a strong focal point that adds personality and sparks curiosity, while the bicycle hung on the wall contributes an adventurous, youthful vibe without taking up floor space. A framed number seven and other simple art pieces create a playful, slightly nostalgic mood that feels like a nod to childhood memory rather than a themed room.
Sherry loved the thoughtful lighting and the inventive chalkboard closet doors. The chalkboard surface is a brilliant multipurpose feature: it serves as a canvas for doodles, a spot for notes, and a way to keep the room feeling active and changeable as the boys grow. The striped drapes add a classic pattern that brings color and rhythm to the walls while remaining versatile enough to complement future changes in decor.
Beyond aesthetics, what makes this room successful is the emphasis on function. Built-in storage, wall-mounted book racks, and designated hooks help keep toys, clothing, and everyday items organized. The desk provides a quiet corner for learning and creativity, and the layout makes excellent use of otherwise awkward spaces. These practical solutions are sensible for busy family life and show how smart planning can result in a room that looks curated while still being kid-friendly.
Overall, the makeover balances style and utility. It demonstrates that with some DIY effort and intentional choices, a child’s bedroom can be both organized and inspiring. Which part speaks to you most—the map, the chalkboard doors, the desk, or the clever storage? We’d love to hear which detail you’d borrow for your own space.