Living in a space of around 1,500 square feet, I often find myself wishing for a bit more room to accommodate specific needs like a home office, a playroom for my child, a hobby room for myself, and a space for my husband’s special interests. It’s funny to think about having “dead” space when every inch counts in my home. But I know that many homes, especially new builds, have areas that leave homeowners scratching their heads about what to do with them. A loft at the top of the stairs, a large empty basement, or a peculiar alcove in the primary bedroom or under the staircase – these are all spaces that might be underutilized or confusing.
There is also the scenario where you may not need a formal dining room, an extra bedroom for guests, or a full-size mudroom or laundry room. I love the idea of personalizing your home to suit your needs and reimagining the purpose of a room beyond what the floor plan dictates.
So, what can you do with these empty or perplexing spots? I have some creative ideas to share with you today. Let’s spark those creative neurons!
Before we dive into the ideas, let’s draw some inspiration from a past project. Remember the bookcase in the upstairs landing of the Portland project designed by Emily? It led to a hidden playroom with a skylight, utilizing space that would have otherwise gone to waste.
Room Rethink #1: Keeping Room
If you have a breakfast nook and a larger dining space adjacent to it or a den that’s underutilized, consider transforming it into a keeping room. A keeping room, traditionally found in early Colonial homes, was a warm, multi-purpose space near the kitchen where the family gathered. Today, it’s a cozy sitting room off the kitchen for relaxation, company, and light bites.
Take a look at this keeping room with a dining table and a sofa, creating an interesting and functional arrangement. Adding cabinetry for a butler’s pantry or coffee bar can enhance the space for entertaining.
A fireplace can add coziness to a keeping room, creating an ideal space for entertaining. A rustic keeping room off the kitchen can serve as a cozy nook in the absence of a large open floor plan.
Room Rethink #2: Home Library
Transform a wall space into a home library, no grand expanse needed. Floor-to-ceiling bookcases, like those in Gil Schafer’s home, can create a cozy reading nook between rooms or in a hallway.
Build shelving above a small reading nook to create a cozy corner for reading and relaxation. A dining room-meets-library with bookcases surrounding the table can infuse character and purpose into a space.
Combine a dining room with a library for a lush and character-filled space. Closed storage below can serve as a sideboard while storing extra items like dinnerware, games, or crafts.
Room Rethink #3: Cloffice
The “cloffice,” a closet-office hybrid, has gained popularity as a space-saving solution. Whether it’s a full bedroom or a small closet, a cloffice can serve as a dressing room, office, or creative nook.
Imagine having a sitting room, office, and walk-in closet combined into one luxurious space. A cloffice or parlor can be a cozy retreat for relaxation and work.
A chic cloffice like this one by Molly Kidd Studio with a lounge bench can create a comfortable and functional workspace.
Room Rethink #4: Quiet Corner
Create a quiet corner or reading nook in underutilized spaces like under stairs or in corners of rooms. An upholstered bench, window seat, and a small table can transform a neglected corner into a cozy retreat.
A built-in upholstered bench under the stairs can provide a cozy spot for relaxation and solitude.
Create a window seat with a pedestal table for a charming corner in any room.
Room Rethink #5: Craft Or Hobby Studio
Dedicate a space to your craft or hobby with a studio setup. An open wood island paired with wall storage can create a functional and inspiring workspace for various activities.
Opt for an island and wall storage setup for a functional craft or hobby studio.
Adjustable seating in a craft studio allows for flexibility in your workspace.
Room Rethink #6: Speakeasy
Turn a small closet or basement into a hidden speakeasy for a touch of glamour and secrecy. Luxe materials and creative design can transform a mundane space into a stylish hideaway.
Create a hidden bar in a small nook or closet for a touch of elegance.
Transform your basement into a stylish home bar with vibrant tile floors and bold colors.
Whether you’re looking to create a cozy reading nook, a functional craft studio, or a hidden speakeasy, there are endless possibilities for reimagining the unused spaces in your home. Get creative and make the most of every corner!
Original Image Credits: Design by Mallory Wackerman | Photos by Sara Ligorria-Tramp | From: Mallory’s Speakeasy Reveal