By Sophie Marlowe
When children grow up and move out, it marks a big life shift.
Suddenly, the house feels quieter, emptier. Now there’s a spare room that was once filled with schoolbooks, scattered clothes, and posters that told you everything about your kid’s interests.
So, what should you do with the empty space? Instead of letting it gather dust or turning it into an oversized and glorified storage cupboard, why not reimagine it as a space that works for you?
A Peaceful Guest Bedroom
Perhaps the most practical choice is to turn the space into a guest bedroom. Whether it’s for friends visiting or for your children when they come back home for the weekend, a cosy and neutral guest room always comes in handy.
Think soft bedding in muted colours, layered lighting for a welcoming glow, and timeless furniture that doesn’t overwhelm the room. Consider how engineered wood flooring creates a warm and homely base, while carpet keeps the atmosphere plush and comfortable. Add in a blanket, a vase of fresh flowers, and perhaps even a mini reading lamp to make guests feel cared for.
A Home Office Retreat
Remote and hybrid working are now a fact of life, and a spare room can become the perfect home office. It doesn’t need to feel clinical; you’ll want to combine productivity with style by choosing a sleek desk, ergonomic chair, and clever storage that can double as décor.
Good lighting is key. Natural daylight helps with focus, so keep windows clear of heavy drapes, while a stylish desk lamp can add some brightness on dull days. Bring personality in through artwork too!
A Library or Reading Nook
If you’ve always loved books, this is your chance to create your own little reading space.
Wall-to-wall shelving creates an instant library effect, or you can go for a smaller alcove with floating shelves. Pair shelving with a plush armchair, a floor lamp, and a side table for your hot drink. Create a cocooning effect with warm tones like terracotta, ochre, or rich navy for a perfect cosy nook. Add a few plants for freshness and a patterned rug to anchor the space.
A Wellness or Yoga Studio
For those craving calm, a wellness room can be the ultimate luxury. Strip the room back to essentials with soft lighting, minimal furniture, and a palette of calming neutrals. You can then use mirrors to open the space up, while introducing tranquillity to the space with yoga mats and floor cushions.
Plants thrive in wellness spaces, not only adding a natural touch but also improving air quality. You’ll want soft and light curtains or linen blinds to diffuse natural light. Hard tiles or stone can be uncomfortable for stretching and exercise, so make sure to choose something soft like cushioned luxury vinyl tiles or smooth engineered wood. You can then add yoga mats and textiles on top.
A Hobby Room
A spare room can also be the perfect hub for hobbies. Whether it’s painting, sewing, or playing an instrument, design the room around your passion.
A large table or desk provides a study surface, while open shelving or labelled storage boxes are great for keeping supplies organised. Inject energy into the space with colour. Bright yellows or bold corals inspire creativity, while pinboards and gallery walls keep ideas close to hand. Don’t forget to make sure you have good task lighting, especially if your hobby involves detail work.
A Home Cinema or Games Room
Or maybe you’d rather indulge in something fun, like an entertainment room.
A home cinema works beautifully in a spare room with blackout blinds, a large TV or projector, and surround sound speakers. Paint the walls in rich, dark colours to add to the cocooning feel.
For a games room, think versatile. A corner sofa or beanbags provide relaxed seating, while modular storage hides away controllers, DVDs, and board games. Add playful touches with neon lighting, bold wall art, or even a drinks trolley.
Why Should You Redesign Your Spare Room?
It can feel like a bittersweet milestone when kids leave home. But a spare room is an opportunity to create a space that reflects your current lifestyle. Whether that means welcoming loved ones, focusing on health, pursuing hobbies, or adding a touch of luxury, these redesign ideas turn what could be an empty space into a vibrant part of your home.
Besides, redesigning ensures the room doesn’t sit as a reminder of change. Instead, it becomes a celebration of new beginnings. So, don’t let that spare room go to waste!
Author Bio:
Sophie Marlowe is a digital content writer and outreach executive for Luxury Flooring. She specialises in crafting engaging blogs on home improvement and home decor with a focus on flooring. Sophie writes handy how-tos, easy guides, and helpful comparisons, letting the reader be informed and inspired to take their home to the next level.
