What To Do With Extra Living Room

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Introduction

Having extra space in your living room can be an exciting opportunity to enhance your home and make it more functional. Instead of letting this space go unused, why not transform it into something that adds value to your everyday life? Whether you’re looking to create a dedicated workspace, a cozy reading nook, or an entertainment area for gatherings, there are countless possibilities for making the most of your extra living room space.

In this article, we will explore a variety of options for what to do with your extra living room and provide you with some creative ideas to inspire you. Each option offers a unique way to utilize the space and enhance your overall living experience.

So, let’s dive in and discover the endless possibilities for transforming your extra living room into something extraordinary!

Option 1: Create a Home Office

If you find yourself working from home or needing a dedicated space to focus on projects and tasks, turning your extra living room into a home office is a fantastic option. Having a designated workspace can greatly increase productivity and concentration, allowing you to separate your work life from your personal life.

To create a functional home office, start by selecting a comfortable desk and ergonomic chair that promote good posture and support. Consider the amount of storage space you need for files, supplies, and equipment, and choose furniture that accommodates your needs.

Lighting is crucial for a productive workspace, so ensure you have sufficient natural light and invest in task lighting to illuminate your desk area. Consider adding plants to bring a touch of nature and freshness to your office space.

Organizational tools such as shelves, cabinets, and desk organizers can help keep your workspace tidy and efficient. Don’t forget to personalize your office with artwork, photos, or motivational quotes that inspire and motivate you.

Another essential element for a home office is a reliable internet connection. Make sure your office area is well-connected to the internet to avoid any technical interruptions. Additionally, consider adding a whiteboard or bulletin board to keep track of important reminders, deadlines, and ideas.

Lastly, create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere by choosing a color scheme that resonates with you. Soft, neutral colors can promote a calming environment, while bold, vibrant colors can stimulate creativity and energy.

By transforming your extra living room into a home office, you not only optimize the space but also enhance your work-life balance by creating a dedicated area for productivity and professionalism.

Option 2: Design a Reading Nook

If you’re a bookworm and find solace in the world of literature, why not turn your extra living room space into a cozy reading nook? Creating a dedicated reading area allows you to escape into your favorite books and create a peaceful oasis within your home.

Start by selecting a comfortable chair or chaise lounge where you can curl up with a good book. Look for furniture that provides excellent back support and is upholstered in soft fabrics for maximum comfort. Consider adding a plush throw blanket and a few decorative pillows to make the space even cozier.

Good lighting is essential when it comes to reading, so ensure your reading nook has plenty of natural light during the day. If natural light is lacking, invest in a floor or table lamp with adjustable brightness to provide optimal reading conditions. Position the lighting source near your chair for easy access.

For book lovers, having storage for your beloved collection is a must. Consider adding bookshelves or wall-mounted shelves to display your books. Organize them by genre or author to create an aesthetically pleasing and easy-to-navigate library within your reading nook.

Enhance the ambiance of your reading nook by incorporating elements of nature. Place potted plants nearby or hang some artwork depicting serene landscapes to create a calming atmosphere. Add a small side table to hold your cup of tea or coffee as you indulge in your reading adventures.

To make your reading nook truly immersive, consider adding a sound system or a Bluetooth speaker to play soft background music or ambient sounds. This can further enhance your reading experience and transport you to different worlds within the pages of your favorite books.

In addition to creating a peaceful reading space, your reading nook can also serve as a quiet place for meditation or self-reflection. You can incorporate a small meditation cushion, a zen garden, or any other elements that promote relaxation and mindfulness.

Designing a reading nook in your extra living room provides a dedicated space for you to indulge in your love for books, escape from the outside world, and find serenity in the captivating realm of literature.

Option 3: Set up an Entertainment Area

If you enjoy hosting gatherings or simply want a space in your home dedicated to entertainment, converting your extra living room into an entertainment area is a perfect choice. This versatile space can be designed to accommodate various activities, such as watching movies, playing video games, or hosting game nights with friends and family.

An essential element of an entertainment area is comfortable seating. Opt for a spacious sectional sofa or a set of plush recliners that can accommodate multiple guests. Consider adding bean bags or floor cushions for additional seating options, creating a relaxed and inviting space for everyone to enjoy.

Investing in a high-quality television or projection screen will greatly enhance your entertainment experience. Choose a size that suits your space and preferences, and ensure it is positioned at an optimal height and viewing angle for comfortable viewing from various seating positions.

Enhance the sound quality by setting up a surround sound system or incorporating a soundbar. This will provide a more immersive and cinematic experience, elevating your entertainment area to a new level.

To create a cozy and intimate ambiance, incorporate dimmable lighting options. Adjustable floor lamps or LED strips behind the television can help set the mood and create a cinema-like atmosphere. Consider adding blackout curtains or blinds to control natural light and create the perfect viewing conditions.

Add some fun and interactive elements to your entertainment area by incorporating a game console, a pool table, or a foosball table. These activities can bring friends and family together for hours of enjoyment and friendly competition.

Don’t forget about storage space for your media collection and gaming accessories. Install shelves or cabinets to neatly organize your movies, video games, and gaming consoles. This will keep everything easily accessible and prevent clutter in your entertainment area.

Create a snack and beverage station within your entertainment area to ensure convenient access to refreshments. Install a small bar counter, mini-fridge, and display shelves for snacks and drinks. This will keep your guests entertained and hydrated without having to leave the room.

By transforming your extra living room into an entertainment area, you can create a dedicated space for fun-filled gatherings, movie nights, and exciting gaming sessions. It will become the go-to spot in your home for entertainment and create lasting memories with your loved ones.

Option 4: Convert it into a Playroom

If you have children or simply want a space dedicated to play and creativity, transforming your extra living room into a playroom is a fantastic option. This allows you to create a safe and fun environment for your kids to explore, learn, and engage in imaginative play.

Start by choosing durable and child-friendly flooring, such as foam mats or carpet tiles. This will provide a soft and comfortable surface for your children to play on. Consider incorporating vibrant and playful colors into the room’s decor to create a lively and stimulating atmosphere.

Create different play zones within the room. Set up an area for imaginative play, complete with a play kitchen, dolls, and stuffed animals. Alternatively, dedicate a space for building and constructing with blocks, Lego sets, or magnetic tiles. Encourage your children’s creativity by setting up an art station with easels, paint, and craft supplies.

Incorporate plenty of storage solutions to keep toys organized and easily accessible. Use open shelves or colorful storage bins to make cleanup time a breeze. Consider labeling the storage containers to teach your children about organization and responsibility.

Ensure adequate lighting to create a bright and inviting play space. Natural light is ideal, but if that is limited, install ceiling lights or use floor lamps to provide adequate illumination. Keep safety in mind by placing electrical outlets out of reach or using outlet covers.

Add comfortable seating options for children and adults to relax and join in on the play. Bean bags, floor cushions, or a small sofa can create a cozy reading corner or a space for family bonding through playtime activities.

Consider incorporating educational elements, such as a magnetic whiteboard or a wall-mounted chalkboard, where your children can learn and practice their writing skills. Include age-appropriate books, puzzles, and educational toys to promote learning through play.

Don’t forget about incorporating physical activity into the playroom. Install a small indoor slide, a climbing wall, or even a mini trampoline to keep your children active and engaged. This will help channel their energy in a fun and safe way.

A playroom offers a dedicated space for your children to explore, learn, and let their imaginations run wild. By transforming your extra living room into a playroom, you create a joyful and interactive environment where your children can thrive and make lasting memories.

Option 5: Transform into a Fitness Space

If you’re looking to prioritize your health and fitness, converting your extra living room into a fitness space can provide you with a convenient and dedicated area for exercise. Having a home gym allows you to work out at your convenience, saving time and money on gym memberships.

Start by assessing your fitness goals and the type of exercises you enjoy. This will help you determine the equipment and accessories needed for your fitness space. If you prefer cardio workouts, consider investing in a treadmill, stationary bike, or elliptical machine. For strength training, incorporate dumbbells, resistance bands, and a weight bench.

Ensure you have proper flooring that can withstand the impact of different exercises. Interlocking rubber mats or foam tiles can provide cushioning and protect your floor from damage. This flooring also helps reduce noise and vibrations.

Create a motivational environment by adding mirrors to the walls. Mirrors not only create an illusion of a larger space but also allow you to check and correct your form during exercises. This can help enhance your technique and prevent injuries.

Invest in appropriate storage solutions to keep your fitness equipment organized and easily accessible. Install wall hooks or racks to hang resistance bands, yoga mats, and jump ropes. Utilize shelving or storage bins for smaller items such as hand weights, exercise balls, and yoga blocks.

Consider incorporating a sound system or a Bluetooth speaker to play energizing music during your workouts. Music can provide motivation and make your fitness space a more enjoyable and dynamic environment.

Incorporate motivational quotes or posters that inspire you to stay dedicated to your fitness journey. These visual reminders can serve as motivation and help you stay focused on your goals.

Create a designated area for stretching and yoga. Lay down a comfortable yoga mat and add props like blocks and straps. Consider adding a full-length mirror to assist with proper alignment and form during yoga sessions.

Ensure proper ventilation in your fitness space by incorporating fans or opening windows to keep the air flowing. Staying cool and comfortable during workouts will make your exercise sessions more enjoyable and improve your overall experience.

By transforming your extra living room into a fitness space, you eliminate the need to travel to the gym and have the freedom to work out whenever it fits your schedule. This creates a convenient and personalized environment to support your health and fitness goals.

Consider creating a cozy reading nook with a comfortable chair and good lighting. Add a bookshelf and a side table for a perfect spot to relax and unwind.

Option 6: Utilize as a Craft or Hobby Corner

If you have a passion for crafting, sewing, painting, or any other hobby, transforming your extra living room into a dedicated craft or hobby corner can provide you with a space to indulge in your creative pursuits. Having a designated area for your hobbies allows you to have all your supplies organized and readily accessible, making it easier to immerse yourself in your projects.

Start by assessing your specific hobby needs and organizing your supplies accordingly. Install shelves, pegboards, or storage cabinets to keep your materials organized and easily visible. Label containers and use clear storage bins or transparent drawers to quickly identify and locate the items you need.

Ensure you have a spacious and sturdy work surface where you can comfortably create and work on your projects. A large table or a dedicated craft desk with ample workspace and storage compartments is ideal. Consider the height of the table or desk to promote good posture and prevent back strain.

Good lighting is essential for any craft or hobby corner. Natural light is ideal, so position your workspace near a window or invest in daylight LED bulbs to mimic natural light. Task lighting should also be provided, such as adjustable desk lamps or overhead lights, to prevent eye strain and provide focused illumination on your work area.

Consider adding a comfortable chair or a stool that supports good posture and allows you to work for prolonged periods without discomfort. Ergonomic considerations are especially important if your hobbies involve sitting for extended periods or involve intricate details.

Personalize your craft corner with inspiring artwork, photographs, or motivational quotes that reflect your passion and creativity. Surrounding yourself with visual inspiration can fuel your creativity and make your hobby corner an inviting and inspiring space.

Make sure to incorporate storage solutions for your finished projects. Dedicate a designated area or shelves where you can display or store completed crafts. This will allow you to showcase your creations and keep them in good condition.

Consider adding a comfortable seating area within your craft corner. This can be a small reading nook or a cozy spot where you can take breaks and relax. Having a separate space for relaxation and rejuvenation within your hobby area can help you find balance between your creative pursuits and self-care.

By transforming your extra living room into a craft or hobby corner, you create a space that inspires and supports your creative endeavors. It allows you to indulge in your hobbies, explore new techniques, and nurture your artistic side.

Option 7: Design a Formal Sitting Room

If you love hosting formal gatherings or simply want to create a more elegant and sophisticated space in your home, transforming your extra living room into a formal sitting room is a wonderful option. A formal sitting room provides a space for intimate conversations, relaxation, and entertaining guests in a refined and elegant atmosphere.

Start by selecting furniture pieces that exude sophistication and timeless elegance. Opt for classic and comfortable seating options, such as plush armchairs, a tufted sofa, or a set of tasteful loveseats. Choose upholstery and finishes in luxurious fabrics and textures that elevate the overall aesthetic.

Consider creating a focal point within the room, such as a fireplace or a beautiful centerpiece. Arrange the furniture around this focal point to create a cozy and inviting seating arrangement. Place a coffee table or a side table within reach to provide a surface for drinks, books, or decorative accents.

Lighting is crucial in setting the right ambiance for a formal sitting room. Incorporate a mix of lighting fixtures, such as wall sconces, table lamps, and a chandelier, to add layers of soft and warm illumination. Install dimmer switches to adjust the lighting intensity and create the desired mood for different occasions.

Create an elegant and polished look by incorporating artwork, mirrors, or wall decor. Choose pieces that complement the overall aesthetic and add visual interest to the space. Hang large mirrors strategically to reflect light and open up the room, making it appear more spacious.

Introduce rich and sophisticated colors into the room’s palette. Deep jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, or burgundy can create a sense of opulence and drama. Alternatively, soft and neutral tones like ivory, taupe, or pale gray can evoke a sense of tranquility and timeless elegance.

Add finishing touches with luxurious textiles and accessories. Incorporate plush throw pillows, silk curtains, and elegant draperies that add texture and depth to the room. Display decorative accents like vases, sculptures, or intricate candleholders to create a personalized touch.

To complete the formal sitting room, integrate a high-quality sound system for soothing background music. Consider incorporating a small library or a bookcase filled with books and literary classics, creating an inviting atmosphere for reading and intellectual conversations.

A formal sitting room provides a sophisticated and refined space to entertain guests, enjoy quiet conversations, or simply unwind in a luxurious setting. By transforming your extra living room into a formal sitting room, you create a space that exudes elegance and timeless beauty.

Option 8: Create a Meditation or Yoga Area

If you’re looking to cultivate inner peace, relaxation, and mindfulness, transforming your extra living room into a meditation or yoga area can provide you with a dedicated space for your spiritual practices. Creating a serene and tranquil environment can enhance your meditation or yoga sessions, allowing you to find balance and tranquility in your daily life.

Start by selecting a suitable area within your living room that receives ample natural light or can be dimmed to create a peaceful ambiance. Clear out the space and remove any clutter or distractions to create a clean and harmonious atmosphere.

Create a comfortable and serene seating area for meditation. Place a soft, supportive meditation cushion or a comfortable chair in a quiet corner of the room. Ensure that the seating area is free from distractions and faces a calming focal point, such as a piece of artwork or a beautiful indoor plant.

Designate a separate area for yoga practice within the room. Lay down a non-slip yoga mat that provides sufficient cushioning for your joints. Consider installing a full-length mirror to help you check your form and alignment during yoga poses.

Add soothing elements to create a peaceful ambiance. Incorporate soft, calming colors like pastels or neutrals on the walls. Alternatively, use earthy tones to create a grounding atmosphere in your meditation or yoga area.

Enhance the space with natural elements, such as plants and essential oils. Choose indoor plants that purify the air and add a touch of fresh energy to the room. Use essential oil diffusers or scented candles with calming fragrances, like lavender or sandalwood, to create a serene and aromatic atmosphere.

Consider incorporating soft, adjustable lighting options to set the right mood for your practice. Install dimmable lights or use floor lamps with warm light bulbs to create a peaceful and relaxed environment. You can also include fairy lights or soft string lights to add a touch of magic to the space.

Personalize your meditation or yoga area with meaningful symbols or objects. Display crystals, statues, or inspirational quotes that resonate with your spiritual journey. These personal items can serve as gentle reminders and sources of inspiration during your practice.

Create a sense of tranquility by minimizing distractions. Make sure that the area is quiet and away from the noise of daily life. Consider adding white noise machines or soothing nature sounds to create a calming auditory environment.

Lastly, ensure proper ventilation in the space. Open windows to let in fresh air whenever possible, or use a small humidifier or air purifier to create a clean and refreshing atmosphere.

By transforming your extra living room into a meditation or yoga area, you create a dedicated space to cultivate mindfulness, find inner peace, and enhance your spiritual practices. It becomes a sanctuary within your home where you can reconnect with yourself and promote overall well-being.

Option 9: Set up a Home Bar or Mini Lounge

If you enjoy entertaining guests or simply want a space to unwind and enjoy your favorite drinks, transforming your extra living room into a home bar or mini lounge can provide you with a stylish and inviting space to relax and socialize. Creating a dedicated area for drinks and cocktails adds a touch of sophistication and elegance to your home.

Start by selecting a designated area where you can set up your home bar or mini lounge. This can be near a wall, a corner, or even a separate bar cart or cabinet. Ensure the space is easily accessible and has enough room to accommodate drinks, glassware, and seating options.

Invest in a quality bar cart or a stylish bar cabinet to store your favorite spirits, mixers, glassware, and bar tools. Opt for a design that complements your living room decor and suits your personal style. This will be the centerpiece of your home bar or mini lounge.

Accessorize the space with essential bar tools such as a cocktail shaker, strainer, jigger, and muddler. Display these tools on the bar cart or in a visible location for quick and easy access during cocktail preparation.

Consider installing shelves or a wall-mounted rack to hold your collection of wine or liquor bottles. Organize them by type or create a visually appealing display. This not only adds functionality but also serves as an eye-catching element in your home bar or mini lounge.

Enhance the ambiance with appropriate lighting. Install dimmable lights or use soft accent lighting to create a cozy and intimate atmosphere. You can even consider incorporating LED strip lights to create a vibrant and modern look.

Add comfortable seating options for you and your guests. Choose bar stools with plush seating or opt for a cozy armchair or small sofa where you can relax while sipping your favorite beverage. Make sure the seating complements the overall aesthetic and encourages conversation and relaxation.

Create a personalized touch by adding decorative elements such as framed artwork, mirrors, or a chalkboard displaying drink specials or cocktail recipes. Consider incorporating a small tabletop game, such as a foosball table or a dart board, to add an element of fun and entertainment.

Accessorize the space with bar essentials like cocktail napkins, coasters, and a selection of mixers and garnishes. Consider providing a variety of glassware suitable for different types of drinks, such as tumblers, highball glasses, and stemmed glasses for wine or champagne.

Lastly, consider adding a small bar fridge to store perishable mixers, garnishes, and chilled beverages. This eliminates the need to frequently leave the space to grab refreshments and keeps everything conveniently within reach.

By transforming your extra living room into a home bar or mini lounge, you create a stylish and sophisticated space where you can entertain guests, unwind after a long day, or enjoy quality time with loved ones. It becomes a focal point in your home for relaxation and indulgence.

Conclusion

Having extra space in your living room is an exciting opportunity to transform your home and make it more functional and enjoyable. Whether you choose to create a home office, a cozy reading nook, an entertainment area, a playroom, a fitness space, a craft or hobby corner, a formal sitting room, a meditation or yoga area, or a home bar or mini lounge, each option offers unique possibilities for maximizing the potential of your extra living room.

A home office provides a dedicated workspace for increased productivity and focus. A reading nook offers a cozy retreat to indulge in your favorite books and escape into different worlds. An entertainment area serves as a hub for gatherings, movies, and game nights with friends and family. A playroom creates a safe and fun environment for children to explore and engage in imaginative play.

A fitness space allows you to prioritize your health and exercise conveniently at home. A craft or hobby corner provides a space for creative expression and the pursuit of personal interests. A formal sitting room adds elegance and sophistication to your home, perfect for intimate conversations and entertaining guests. A meditation or yoga area offers a sanctuary for relaxation and spiritual practices.

Lastly, a home bar or mini lounge brings style and luxury to your living room, creating a space for relaxation and socializing with friends and loved ones.

Regardless of the option you choose, it’s important to create a space that resonates with your personal style and needs. Consider the layout, lighting, furniture, storage, and decorative elements that will enhance the functionality and ambiance of your extra living room space.

By utilizing your extra living room effectively, you can enhance the overall functionality, comfort, and enjoyment of your home. Whether you’re seeking a productive workspace, a soothing sanctuary, a space for family activities, or a setting for entertainment and socializing, the possibilities are endless.

So, take advantage of your extra living room and transform it into a space that reflects your passions, promotes well-being, and enriches your everyday life.