Over the last several years both homeowners and renters have created multipurpose rooms to meet the influx of new activities and work-from-home challenges. Whilst this initial shift was born out of necessity during COVID, the idea of creating flexible spaces has been growing in popularity as people seek spaces that more effectively suit their hectic daily lives. If you want to learn how to better utilise your home, read on for our tips for creating the ideal multipurpose room.
TRANSFORM AN UNDERUSED CUPBOARD OR WARDROBE
Depending on its size, an unused wardrobe is brimming with possibilities as part of a new multipurpose space. For example you could easily transform one in your bedroom or guest room into
a home office or extra storage space for supplies. If it's shallow and long, consider dividing the space with a closed system for storage on one side and your workspace on the other. It's best to add a comfortable work chair, some additional lighting and hanging artwork to make the space as inviting as possible. If you need additional storage some wall mounted shelves are suggested.
Is there an extra cupboard near your entertaining space? Consider removing the doors so that it is open and create a customised bar. This can be done by simply removing the shelves and adding a chest, cabinet or bar cart to store your bottles and glassware. Bring in some mood lighting with a floor lamp or pendant light and you're ready to host your next dinner party or cocktail soireé! Remember, if you're renting a property, always gain permission from your agent/landlord prior to making adjustments within the home.
CARVE OUT A MULTIFUNCTIONAL KITCHEN
Has your kitchen become the centre of activity in your home? With some quick rearranging and the right piece of furniture, you can create a space in your kitchen that can easily change as your needs do. You can add a small desk or additional counter space to make the corner of the room into the perfect multipurpose area. Position it in the corner (preferably near a window) and add a stool that can be hidden away when not used. This can be the desk where you take video calls in the morning and make dinner in the evening!
DESIGN A MULTIPURPOSE GUEST ROOM AND WORKOUT AREA
Do you have a home office or guest bedroom that rarely hosts visitors? It may be time to invest in a sofa bed. If you don't have people staying over the bed can be tucked away opening up the floor space for a workout area. This is also a terrific idea for studio apartments where you need to create a living, dining and sleeping space in a small area. You can put the bed away during the day and wheel over footstools and a fold away table when it's time to entertain.
MAKE YOUR DINING ROOM DO DOUBLE DUTY
Formal dining rooms took on new life during the pandemic, and they will likely stay the spot of more than just family dinners. You may be tired of moving paperwork and computers whenever you want to use the space for dining. If you can spend the time and money, custom cabinets may be the answer. They can house a hidden workspace with a fold-down desk or a crafts studio with a retractable work table and plenty of shelves for supply bins. Games and puzzles also can be stored here. And if dinner parties are in your future, save one of the cabinets for specialty serving platters, dinnerware and table linens you don't use daily. If you don't have the time or space to install something permanent, consider finding something convertible that opens to reveal a workspace with charging stations, lighting and storage for your essential files. When the work day is over, close the doors and move your chair out of the way, and the dining room can be restored for a relaxing family dinner with minimal hassle.
CREATE A HIDDEN LAUNDRY ROOM
Are you hoping to invest in a new laundry set up in your home? If your bathroom has an empty cupboard or underused vanity it might be time to convert it into a multipurpose bathroom and laundry. Since bathrooms already have water running this room and the kitchen are the most accessible places to add stackable or side by side washers and dryers. If the room is big enough to accommodate both you can install bi-fold doors to create a separate 'room' for the appliances when they aren't in use.
TRANSFORM A LARGE LAUNDRY AREA
If your home is blessed with a larger laundry area than you need, this may become the perfect multipurpose space. We recommend assessing the site to determine if shelving, cabinetry or an island can be added. This can turn into a place for gift wrapping, odds and ends storage as well as laundry. If you decide to add a table or island this can be perfect for not just gift wrapping but family craft projects, studying or working from home when you aren't folding laundry.
From repurposing formal dining areas into workspaces to transforming bathrooms into hidden gems, the possibilities are endless. With a little imagination and some practical tips, anyone can create the perfect multipurpose room to fit their needs and make the most out of their home.