Transforming a spare bedroom into a stylish multipurpose space
by Northern Life
A spare bedroom is often a forgotten corner of the house. But with just a little creativity, it can become an incredibly functional space. Whether you want to create a guest room, a workspace, or a cosy hobby nook, the key is to balance flexibility with thoughtful design. Read on for practical tips on how to transform an extra bedroom into an area that supports and enhances your multitasking lifestyle.
Figure out what you want from the room
Start by taking stock of the room’s dimensions and layout. Alongside this, think long and hard about what you want to do in the room. Will it need to function as a guest retreat? If so, is there enough space for a full-size bed? Or would a daybed make more sense?
Perhaps you also want it to be a quiet home office or a hobby corner. Pinpoint the top two or three functions you need and use them to drive and inspire your layout and furniture choices.
Choose smart, versatile furniture
It’s a multipurpose room, so carefully sourced multifunctional furniture is essential. For example, a sleekly designed desk that not only fits into the space but folds away when not in use. Pull-out sofas are a popular option if you plan on switching between work and sleep modes. If you want to go for style and functionality, ottoman beds offer storage for bedding and other items while doubling as a comfy sleeping option for overnight guests.
Smart storage to find space in unexpected places
If you’re creating a multipurpose space in a small room, it will be a challenge to keep clutter under control. Built-in shelving, wall-mounted hooks, or under-bed drawers keep things neat and prevent the space from feeling cramped. Storage that tucks away when not in use is perfect for multifunctional rooms, keeping the space both practical and aesthetically appealing.
Optimise lighting for various activities
One single overhead light won’t work for all activities. Install ambient lighting to set the tone and add task-specific lighting like desk lamps or reading lights if necessary. Consider installing dimmers or adjustable lamps to transition the space from a work zone to a relaxing guest retreat with ease.
Personalise with colour and décor
You might have a favourite colour, but redoing the entire room in a vibrant shade will make it difficult to change the theme later on. Stick to a calm, neutral palette to create a flexible backdrop. You can then add personality through art, soft furnishings, and strategic colour pops. Choose pieces that can shift with the room’s purpose, such as removable wall art or repositionable lighting.
Reimagine your spare room for modern living
A multipurpose spare bedroom should work around your lifestyle. With the right furniture, storage, and décor, that long-overlooked extra room can be anything you need it to be.
