A room may be designated for a particular purpose on architectural plans, but this does not dictate it’s actual use. There are many creative alternatives to defined spaces in your home. A closet can be an office, a dining room can be a library or a garage can be a family room. The possibilities are endless.
Creative Alternatives to the Closet
Storage is an important element in any home. However, when you have ample storage elsewhere and need additional space, the closet can be transformed into an office. Whether you have a spacious walk-in closet at your disposal or a small space under the stairs, an office can fit nicely. A small desk or workspace and shelving is all that is needed for this creative alternative.
The space under the stairs is often not utilized. It may be home to part of the HVAC system or the water heater. However, you can still chisel out a space for a simple home office.
Block off a small portion of a room or a tidy closet with a pair of window panels. Create your wizardry behind the curtain with shelves and a work space.
If you lack dedicated laundry space, transform a closet into your clothing care center. The linen closet is often situated near a bathroom, which makes the necessary plumbing easier to access.
Create a reading nook in a bedroom with available closet space. This is an ideal alternative for the teenager’s room, allowing for a personal spot for relaxing or studying.
Fancy a cozy nook in the bedroom? Create a one-of-a-kind bed wall by painting it an accent color. Add lighting and bookshelves for nighttime reading.
Children will love a space where they can create their own secret hideaway. The closet is one of the creative alternatives that makes kids’ wishes for an indoor tree-house possible.
No need to sacrifice the entire closet. With some well-planned shelving, you can combine a work center and storage.
If you like to entertain frequently, why not opt for a closet bar? Open it up for parties and simply close the doors when not in use.
Creative Alternatives to the Dining Room
The dining room is a home feature that many families just don’t use. Make the space more usable with a library. You can add a table and chairs for doing homework, reading or other work. When you would like to dine in the space, simply use the existing table.
Creative Alternatives to the Attic
The attic is often the catch-all space of a home. Grandma’s old trunk, dad’s collection of model cars and the kids’ outgrown furniture and clothing generally dominate this space. Make use of the attic for an extra bedroom or extra usable square footage for family gatherings. Finish the walls and floor, add some windows and/or skylights for an airy space.
Turn the attic into a sunny bedroom for guests or create the ultimate master bedroom retreat.
If your attic is large enough, convert the space into a retreat for relaxing. Designate a space for watching TV or sitting by the fire and another for working or playing on the computer.
And, of course, the attic is always a great spot to create a home office. It’s away from the other rooms, giving you privacy and quiet.
Creative Alternatives to the Garage
If you need additional living space and can’t build onto your home, the garage can be converted. An apartment for in-laws, a boarder or even a grown child is a possibility for a garage.
A home theatre and a space for entertaining is another option for the garage. Plush reclining seats, a projector, movie screen and sound system can be installed for the perfect place for viewing. Add a bar and a bathroom for a complete entertaining space.
Don’t let the standard blueprints of your home hold you back from creating spaces that conform more to your needs and wishes. Make your home truly yours with personal touches and usable spaces.
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