Plenty of time at home recently means we’ve had the opportunity to take stock of how our indoor spaces work for our household and perhaps imagine how those spaces could serve us better. Realizing a vision for an improved space often means a kitchen or bathroom remodel, though it could also mean reinventing a space such as a bedroom, basement, or attic.
Common projects in this vein are creating a home office, a media room, or a guest room. You may also want a space for hobbies, exercise, or simply a space for privacy and relaxation. Or, maybe you need an in-law suite.
As with most home improvement projects, basic steps for reinventing an existing space include:
- Take inventory of what currently works and what doesn’t.
- Develop a clear vision of what you’d like to achieve.
- What activities will happen in the space?
- What features do you need and want? All the basic considerations apply: flooring, heating/cooling, lighting, electrical, windows, paint, storage, décor, etc.
- How do you want the space to feel?
- Gather ideas and advice. Remember, the Club’s field representative can give you guidance on your project as a perk of your membership.
- Determine your budget.
- Let the Club connect you with qualified contractors.
Home Office
The work-from-home trend seems here to stay, and we all need a place for household paperwork and financial tasks. A dedicated home office space can improve productivity and work-life balance. Ideal features include work surfaces; a good chair; file storage; and a background, lighting, and noise level conducive to online meetings.
Media Room
If you’d prefer your living room activities not center around the television, a media room or area may be the way to go. Where could you create a home theater? Similarly, you may want a game room or a library.
Guest Room
If you’ll be hosting family or friends, they’ll appreciate their own space with a comfortable bed and a place to unpack belongings, store luggage, and charge electronics. These ideas also work for creating a space you rent to travelers. Depending on how often you host guests, this space could double as your hobby, exercise, or sanctuary space, especially if your guest room has a murphy bed. Have messy hobbies? Consider leveraging your laundry area.
Where to Find Space
No unused rooms to dedicate to these purposes? What space in your home you could put to better use? Could you create rooms in an unfinished basement? What about attic space or the space under stairs? Do you have corners that could become mini spaces with partial walls or shelving? Is your household facing transitions that may make it possible to repurpose bedrooms?
Maximize small spaces with things like multi-purpose tables that work for meals, office tasks, and hobbies or activities. Some have storage features, and some low tables double as seating.
Take time to dream about how you’d like to enjoy your home. Then, contact us for help.
