Snips and Snails and Puppy-Dog Tails (Designing An Awesome Boys' Room)

If you follow me on Pinterest, you'll notice that I've been pinning a lot of this:

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and this:

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oh, and then there's this:

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and of course, let's not forget this:

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You guys.  That last image.....  Wow.  I love it so much.  I don't know if it screams '7 year-old boy' though..... I might have to file it away for myself....

The thing that sticks out most for me in these inspiration photos is contrast.  Lots of soft blues and greys coupled with striking black and dark walnut.  And to lighten the space, bright, creamy white accents in the form of trim or draperies.

You see, I've got a little monkey who just so happens to be turning 7 this month.  When we originally designed the second floor, we added a guest room knowing that it would eventually be Jack's bedroom.  We figured the boys would duke it out in a shared bedroom until they were about 10 or so, and then want to spread their wings and go separate ways.

Not my kids.

They want FREEDOM!  INDIVIDUALITY!  THEIR OWN SPACE!  NOW, PLEASE!

I've decided to surprise Jack with his own room for his birthday.  Which just so happens to be in 20 days.  Now, I'm not expecting it to look exactly like those drool-worthy rooms up there in 20 days.  Especially considering that I'm currently working on finishing up the master ensuite, guest bathroom, kitchen and enough trim work to make me just want to just. give. up. right. now.

On top of all of that, the current space I'm working with looks like this:

Ugh.  That hurts.  Hurts bad.

Throughout the last year, whenever we've had to store something away for later or move items because we were working in a room, this is where it went.  And now it's back to haunt me.

BUT!  I've got a plan and I'm sticking to it.  Kind of.  Here's the master to-do for this space:

• Clear out the room
• Finish trimming out the windows and doors
• Make a decision regarding whether to go basic wall trim or do a snazzy treatment
• Paint
• Window coverings/blinds/curtains
• Install lighting

It will seriously be a miracle if I can get this done.  Little bites, Carol....little bites...

What about you?  Ever try to eat an elephant of this size in such a short time?  Got any inspiration photos?  Words of wisdom?