The right environment can make or break a youth group meeting. The way in which the room is laid out can have a major effect on how teens think and interact with the lessons, their peers, the instructors and the overall theme. You will want something inviting but also something that appeals to the age group. Also, its nice to provide a place where the teens want to be. Consider your youth groups theme when making decisions about furnishings, as well as the budget. Many groups have particular names that can give you a decorating theme to follow. Also, do not forget about space considerations. Does this Spark an idea?
Computer and Projector
While this fixture is less for the enjoyment of the group, it is more about conveying a message. A projector and computer setup will provide a technologically up-to-date room. A computer and projector will also allow you to use graphics programs to enhance lessons, or to have a real movie night. The projector also provides a great way to do your worship time. Singing along with a music video is usually a smash hit second only to going to the concert.
Sound System
While this may not be a necessity if you have a small group, it can add a particular appeal, especially to teenagers. If you are fortunate to have a teen worship team, they will love having a sound system that lets them sound like a professional band. If you have the funds, you might consider adding recording equipment and a higher quality soundboard. Choose your speakers wisely; you can use them for watching movies, singing songs, giving lessons and more.
Color Scheme
This can make a big difference in creating a place where teens want to be. Choose carefully. If you have a spare wall, consider painting it with chalkboard paint. Then, just by providing colorful chalk, you can create hours of fun for teen girls. Doodling seems to be a major activity of teens. You can also use this space for communicating upcoming activities and maybe even keep the youth group calendar on it.
Couch and Chairs
In many circles a couch is considered taboo (perhaps due to its being good place for a make-out session). However, a couch or two can provide a relaxed environment in which teens can feel more at home. Beanbag chairs also make an easy, appealing means of relaxing. Of course, these would be in addition to the actual seating arrangement in your room.
Video Games
Video games are a part of nearly every teens usual diet of entertainment. In between lessons and during fun times, video games make a great addition to any youth group room. Of course this means that you will have to provide televisions to use with the gaming systems. Consider installing at least two video game stations, such as an X-box and a PlayStation/Wii. If you can also obtain an arcade game or two, that would help to create the ultimate teen environment.
Games in General
In addition to video games, a number of traditional games can provide hours of fun. Most churches have someone who owns an old ping-pong or foosball table they are willing to donate. These two items as well as various board games which can be played on a coffee table or two generally help to make an inviting place for teens to be.
Music Equipment
Most churches also have lots of music equipment which can be borrowed (with appropriate approval, of course). Many youth groups desire to form a band/worship team. Extraneous musical equipment will help to meet this need and provide an outlet for creativity.
Kitchenette
If your room is separated far enough from the church kitchen, consider adding a kitchenette. This item is not so much for the use of the youth group, but more to help keep the leaders sane. A refrigerator to hold soda is invaluable for parties. A sink will also help you clean up those inevitable messes. Perhaps an oven for some quick brownies would also be a good idea. This is by no means a necessity, but is a good accessory to have.
Tables
Every group could benefit from a quality set of tables. Rectangle and oval are both good useful. Each serves a different purpose and help to add to the credibility of your group. Rectangle tables are great for serving food. Oval tables take up more room and sit fewer people, but are invaluable for small group discussions. There are a number of light plastic tables that a group can get fairly cheaply. Card tables are useful at times, but not so much as the rectangular tables.
Various Decorations
This category more than any other will help to build your groups theme. A number of posters from both Bible verses and music groups can help to provide a very youthful room. Other miscellaneous props that can be used in object lessons might include, for example, a gas mask obtained from an army surplus store which provides a curious form of entertainment for teens and helps to illustrate many Bible lessons.
Lighting
Lighting is both an essential and a luxury. Some light is always needed, and your overhead light fixtures might be all your group needs. However, it is always fun to have a lighting system. Dramas are enhanced many times with a proper lighting scheme. Teens love to see lighting effects during their worship team performances. Use caution, as this type of lighting is often expensive. A spotlight helps if you have a really big group or do lots of dramas/plays. Various floor lamps in different corners of your room provide relaxed, ambient lighting when you want a quieter and more serious atmosphere.
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