When decorating a room for a tween boy, there are some important things to keep in mind. The most important factor to consider is that he’s growing up, developing his own personality and experimenting with how independent he can get be. The space he calls his own should reflect that. At this age, they are discovering their likes and dislikes, especially when it comes to music. To accessorize his room, put up posters of his favorite bands, frame photos or magazine pictures of musicians who inspire him and showoff his rock n roll memorabilia or collection of musical instruments. But for the room’s décor, choose a neutral palette and metal furniture that will be contemporary, creative but most of all, just plain cool.

Color the walls neutral. Choose neutral tones like light or dark grays; white paint with black patterned wallpaper in circles or squares; or deep tans, beiges and taupes – any neutral color that will bring out the metallic look of the furniture. If you want to introduce some color into the room, cooler shades of blue with gray undertones will also work.

Start with the twin Powell Monster Bedroom® Monster Metal Bed. Metal is a good material for a bed in a tween’s room. Not only will it grow with him, a metal bed is usually easy to care for, while being strong and durable. Clean lines with rounded corners and the textured metal panel create a look that is unique and stylish.

Add the Powell Monster Bedroom® 4-Drawer Mobile Storage Bench to the end of the metal bed in place of a footboard. It will give him some place to sit when putting on shoes or practicing guitar. In addition to the nightstand and the dresser, the bench will also provide more storage, which is always a good thing in a boy’s room, tween or otherwise.

While the South Shore Furniture Cosmos Nightstand is actually made of wood with metal accents and a built-in CD rack. But the charcoal finish tabletop gives this contemporary style nightstand a sleek metallic look that really pops.

There’s going to be music. Whether your tween plays his own musical instrument or listens to someone else play, it’s probably going to be loud. Choose heavier fabrics for the window treatments and, especially if there is not already a carpet in the room, a thick, plush area rug to help absorb sound and sound-proof his room.

Music is an important part of his life. Include a TV stand; place to watch music DVDs and TV programs is imperative in a boy’s bedroom. Don’t forget the bean bag chair. Bean bag chairs add a fun element to the room while giving your tween a comfy place to sit and veg.