When most people think of remodeling, they think of kitchens and bathrooms. But what about bonus or flex rooms? These often neglected spaces can be transformed into something truly special with just a little bit of effort.
Bonus room remodels can be just as rewarding as full-blown additions. They’re often more affordable too.
We talk more about bonus rooms below. And we’ll spitball some remodeling ideas while we’re at it.
So, Just What Is a Bonus Room Anyway?
A bonus room is an extra room in a house that can be used for a variety of purposes. Some people call these areas “flex rooms,” alluding to their flexibility and adaptability.
Some points to note about bonus rooms:
- They’re often located above the garage or on the second floor. It’s the attic in some, but not all, cases.
- Appraisers, realtors, and homeowners can sometimes ignore bonus rooms. Although they aren’t essential to a home’s function, bonus rooms can add value and extra living space if you touch them up right.
- Bonus rooms typically aren’t code compliant. So don’t expect to just place a master bedroom with a private bath and walk-in closet in there without extensive modifications.
That being said, there’s still many ways to use and decorate a bonus room.
Common Mistakes People Make When Remodeling a Bonus Room
It’s not uncommon for people to get caught up in the excitement of a remodel. Try not to get carried away and keep an eye out for these mistakes:
It’s a Mess
Perhaps the most common mistake people make when remodeling a bonus room is to try and do too much with the space. It doesn’t mean you must fill it with lots of furniture and decor just because you have an additional room in your home.
A bonus room works best if you keep it simple. The less the clutter, the more spacious and inviting the room will feel.
No Plan
Another mistake people make is not considering how they will use the space before beginning the remodel. It’s important to have a clear vision for the room before starting any work.
Otherwise, you may end up with a space that doesn’t suit your needs or taste.
Bonus Room Remodel Ideas
With that out of the way, here’s some bonus room remodeling ideas to get you started:
Home Office
A bonus room is the perfect spot to set up a home office. You can add a desk, some shelving, and a comfortable chair to create a functional space that’s separate from the rest of the house. This is especially important if you work from home or need a quiet place to focus.
Reading Nook or Library
If you love to read, why not turn your bonus room into a library? This is a great way to make use of the space and keep your books organized. You can even add a cozy chair and some throw pillows for extra comfort.
Since a library’s expected to be quiet, why not throw in a desk and give a place for the younger ones to study or work on assignments?
Media or Game Room
Is your living room feeling a bit cramped? If you have the space, turn your bonus room into a media room or game room. This is a great spot for entertainment purposes and can be used by the whole family.
You can add a TV, gaming console, sound system, and any other electronics you need. You might even want to install some built-in shelving or cabinets to store all of your games and movies.
Home Gym
If you’re looking for a way to get fit without leaving home, consider turning your bonus room into a home gym. This is a great solution if you don’t have the time or money to go to a commercial gym.
You can set up cardio and weight machines, free weights, and other workout equipment. You can also add a TV or music system to help you stay motivated. Just make sure your flooring can handle the extra weight of the equipment.
Hobby Room
Do you have a hobby that takes up a lot of space? If so, your bonus room is the perfect spot to set up a dedicated hobby room. This way, you can spread out and not have to worry about making a mess in the rest of the house.
Some hobbies that would work well in a bonus room are woodworking, painting, and model building. Just make sure you have enough ventilation for any fumes or chemicals.
Guest Room
If you often have guests stay over, consider turning your bonus room into a guest room. This will give them their own private space to relax and feel at home. Just add a bed, dresser, and some extra pillows and blankets.
You might also want to add a small desk or table so your guests can have a place to work or put their belongings.
Professionals Don’t Just Help With Additions
If you’re not experienced in remodeling, don’t fret. Winthorpe Design & Build is equipped to help you with anything from the simplest of remodels to the more complex custom home builds.
Reach out to us through our new process, and we’ll design and build a bonus room with you that fits both your family’s needs and your home’s style.
