If there’s one thing almost all property buyers and renters seek from a home, it’s space.
So, if you’ve found yourself recently buying or renting a property with an additional room or two, you’re probably wondering what to do with that extra space.
Read on for 10 great spare room ideas to inspire you…
What can I do with my spare room?
There are a whole host of things you can do with your spare room to make it work for you, including:
- Creating a home office
- Styling up a guest bedroom
- Build a walk-in wardrobe
- Create a library or reading room
- A home cinema
- A gym or workout room
- A children’s playroom
- Create a craft room
- A ‘man’ cave
- A pet sanctuary
How can I get the most out of my small spare bedroom?
If your spare bedroom is on the small side, it doesn’t mean you can’t make the most of it.
Small rooms can make cosy spaces, so why not create a small home office, or a snug for relaxing with a book?
If your small spare bedroom backs on to your master bedroom, creating a walk-in wardrobe or en-suite bathroom could be a great way to make the most of your space – and add potential value to your home.
Spare room ideas to inspire you
If you’re looking for some inspiration for your spare room, take a look at these fantastic ideas…
1. Design a home office
Home offices have never been more in demand and with a hybrid approach to work seemingly here to stay for many companies, a comfortable office space at home has become a must-have for many.
Spare bedrooms can make superb home offices, as they’re away from the main part of the house and often upstairs, meaning peace and quiet for those using the space.
2. Create a guest bedroom
If you have a large family and are often welcoming overnight visitors to your home, a tranquil guest bedroom can be the best use of a spare room.
Create a homely and cosy space for your guests with dark woods and walls and thick bedding.
3. Build a walk-in wardrobe
A spare room walk-in wardrobe is a great way to free up space in your master bedroom and create a private haven for getting ready.
Think about units that are as stunning as they are practical, while you could also consider a central console of drawers to make even more of a statement.
4. A library and reading room
The peace and tranquillity of a private reading room or library can be a stunning addition to your home if you have the space to accommodate it.
Period homes with features like fireplaces work particularly well, with shelving either side and comfortable furnishings to while away the hours with a good book.
5. A film-tastic home cinema
With so many options for streaming movies and boxsets available through services like Netflix and Amazon, home cinemas are becoming more and more popular.
Spare rooms can be great places to install a large screen, speaker system and reclining furniture for the ultimate home cinema experience.
6. A home gym
Like home cinemas and offices, many homeowners have taken to converting spare rooms into home gymnasiums since the pandemic.
By adding a mirrored wall, TV and sound system to your gym equipment, your spare room can easily become a superb exercise space.
7. A playroom for the children
If you have children, you’ll know that their toys and play items can quickly take over the main rooms of your home.
So, creating a dedicated playroom in a spare room is the perfect solution – you can even get the little ones involved in decorating it.
8. A craft or art room
Arts and crafts can be hugely therapeutic and creative – but also extremely messy.
A spare bedroom space can make a superb arts and crafts room, with plenty of storage and surface space so you can create away!
9. A ‘man’ cave
Spare rooms can make great ‘man’ cave spaces, with gaming systems, a big screen and even a mini fridge to keep big match beers nice and cold.
Go for deep, dark colours and worn leathers to create the feeling of a traditional pub or whiskey bar.
10. A pet sanctuary
It’s estimated as many as 3.2 million pets were purchased in the UK during the Covid-19 lockdown.
So, if you’re now the owner of a furry, or even feathered friend, why not create a room all of their own?
Throw in some comfy beds, wall-mounted toys and decorate with images or wallpaper featuring other animals to really make your pet feel at home.
Great spare room decorating ideas
If you’re thinking of sprucing up your spare room décor, get inspired with these superbly decorated spaces…
1. Think pastels
Pastel shades can work especially well in home offices and craft rooms where plenty of natural light can help with creativity and productivity, as well as creating a feeling of space.
2. Add stylish panelling
Wall panelling can be a stylish addition to any room, but especially guest bedrooms.
Panelling can make a room feel more like a hotel than a spare bedroom, meaning your guests can enjoy their own dedicated space when visiting.
3. Think about storage
Storage is important in all rooms, but if you’re thinking about creating a walk-in wardrobe space in your spare room, finding a storage solution that is practical and stylish is key.
Use the height of your room to maintain floor space and consider built-in storage for a sleek look.
4. Make a statement with wallpaper
Wallpaper can be a real statement piece, whether your spare room is being used as a guest bedroom, office or even a home gym.
Don’t be afraid to go bold with your colour choice, bringing in deep blues and golds for a traditional look.
5. Add houseplants
Houseplants not only look great, but they also come with many other benefits.
They purify the air and studies suggest they can also help productivity, lower stress levels and reduce fatigue – making them the ideal addition to any guest room, home gym or home office.
