Room to breathe

Room to breathe

Nowadays, a spare room is a real luxury. If you have one, be honest, when was the last time someone actually stayed in it?

The days of using your spare room as a rare resting place for guests, or more accurately as a dumping ground, could be numbered. Instead, utilise the space to create your own personal sanctuary. Even the smallest of spaces can be a blank canvas waiting for you to add some inspiration.

An art studio, a music room, or perhaps your own fully stocked bar (sounds more up our street) could be a much better alternative to a spare bedroom – the possibilities are endless.

Here are our favourite ideas on how to make the most of your spare room.

Create a yoga studio

yoga-room

No need to worry about the sweaty Betty pitching up next to you,  or running late for class, with your own yoga studio you can do your downward dog in the privacy of your own home, in your own time.

When decorating, remember neutral, muted colours will help restore calm to the room and get you in the right frame of mind. Less is more, so get rid of all clutter. Tidy surroundings make for a tidy mind.

The only other things you’ll need are a yoga mat, a nice statement mirror to align your Warrior and some scented candles or incense. Adding a picture of a beautiful far-off landscape will also help you relax and unwind. Namaste.

Booked up

reading-room

If yoga isn’t your thing, a library could be the perfect alternative zen zone. Somewhere you can close the door and get lost in a good book.

Cover the walls with shelves and fill them with your favourite books that have been cluttering up the house.

Place a comfy chair in the corner with a good lamp, add some snugly blankets and some soft cushions et voila, you have your own library.

Let the games begin

Games are not just for kids, so why not create a space the whole family can enjoy. Even the smallest space can become the hub of the house.

Fill the room with board games, hang up a dartboard and put a drinks fridge in the corner – you’ll never want to leave!

Dressing room

walk-in-wardrobe

Your own master bedroom should be a tranquil minimalist sanctuary where you go to relax, but it can easily start to resemble a utility room with the dirty washing, jackets and shoes dominating your space.

Create your own dressing room to give these much-loved items their own home; having a space to get ready in can make even the most stressful of morning seem more leisurely and enjoyable.

Start by moving your wardrobe from your master bedroom, add in some vintage mirrors, some beautiful heavy drapes and a cosy chair to give it a lovely boudoir look. Get plenty of small boxes or baskets to hold all of your accessories; organisation is the key to making the getting-ready experience as stress-free as possible!

Music room

Playing an instrument is rewarding but be aware that sometimes your room mate may struggle to feel so positive about your hobby. Why not create your own haven that houses all your musical paraphernalia as well as the noise that inevitably comes with it.

Not only does a music room need to be functional – with suitable storage and ample space to perform – it should also be inspiring. Framing vinyls or album covers is a stylish yet affordable way to decorate your space. Dig out those old albums that have been cluttering up the house and hang in some nice frames like these ones from Habitat.

If you play a particularly loud instrument (or you’re a beginner and haven’t quite nailed those high notes yet) make sure to invest in some sound proofing to avoid arguments with family members or neighbours!

Whatever you choose to do with your spare room, utilising the space can be a great excuse to have a good old clear out; ditch the junk, create a beautiful and functional space that you will really make use of for years to come.

Leave a Reply