If the idea of designing a boys’ room conjures thoughts of neon walls, superhero bedding, or a floor full of toys, we have one suggestion: forget what you think you know about crafting a room for your kid. While it’s easy to succumb to the requests of your young one, there are endless ways to meet in the middle with ideas that are youthful—and also refined. From palettes to furniture, even the toys you decide to fill it with, a boys’ room can be made as elegant as you could dream of.

SPORTS-INSPIRED

Graphic black and white wallpaper paired with industrial style overhead lighting and, of course, a punching bag, conjure stylish sports vibes without feeling overly literal or clichéd.

PASTEL HUED

Bright white walls provide the perfect backdrop to an array of pastel shades, including peach curtains, a multi-colored rug, and an assortment of toys. The loft bed—complete with a desk—features a quirky painted cutout design.

TROPICAL THEMED

Something as simple as a fun theme, like this tropically-inspired Manhattan boys' room, is all you need to achieve a youthful yet elegant look. A striking pendant light, custom wallpaper, and tiger rug do just the trick.

GENDER NEUTRAL

For a timeless and transitional space, opt for a gender neutral palette that will last through all your boy's changing color preferences. Here, a boy's bedroom features a grasscloth wallcovering by Kravet, bedding by St. Geneve Linens and Ralph Lauren, and the bedframes and a nightstand by CB2.

PATTERN-PUNCHED

Sophisticated pinstriped walls, a custom patterned rug, wave patterned pillows, and polka dot bedding—all of which adhere to a palette of red and blue—balance elegance with youthfulness in this Brian J. McCarthy-designed boys' room.

A CHIC FOUNDATION

This warm, Dodgers-themed bedroom balances youthful accents with a mature foundation. While the plush toys and wall art are playful and young, the room itself maintains a sophistication that will be appropriate for years to come.

A BOLD RUG

The navy striped wall energizes this boy's room but can be repurposed in a more refined way. The wall art and tiger rug are movable accents that add a youngness without feeling tacky.

YOUTHFUL YET MATURE

For an easy transition from childhood into teen years and adult life, consider decorative elements that are equally youthful and mature. A map on the wall can be an interactive piece for a young child, while its unique coloring makes it a perfect accent for an adult. The complementary scattered blues are energetic, and still lend a tranquil vibe.