The kids have left the nest! Now’s your chance—transform their old bedrooms into something more functional before they decide to move back in.
With a bit of remodeling, you can create a handy new space in your home. Think about adding an office, a guest bedroom, a library, or even a storage room. No matter your budget, you can make these changes quickly and easily, and your kids will be surprised when they come back for the holidays (you’ll still have plenty of couch space for them!).
Here are some ideas:
The Office:
It might be tough to finally remodel a room that’s stayed the same for 23 years, but your kids won’t miss it now that they have their own places. You can tear down that outdated wallpaper, get rid of the old furniture, and replace the ceiling fan with the dusty mobile strings hanging from it. Consider adding dark paneling, oak or chestnut furniture, and hanging up your degrees and certifications that you’ve never had room to display. Also, take this opportunity to check the electrical outlets while the room is empty—you’ll be glad you did.
Guest Room:
As you get older, a guest bedroom might be more useful than it was when your kids were at home. Whether your old friends visit, your family pops in unexpectedly, or your son and his new girlfriend come home for Thanksgiving, you’ll have a comfy place for them to stay. The great thing is you don’t need to toss out the old furniture; just change the decor. Go for muted colors, simple decorations, and plenty of empty drawers for your guests’ belongings. A small TV in the corner is a nice touch too.
Something New Altogether:
These days, many people get creative with extra bedrooms. You could set up a quilting room, a candle-making studio, or finally start that hobby you’ve always dreamed of but never had the space for. Or for a more adventurous idea, you could ask kitchen remodelers to turn a lower-level bedroom into a bar, complete with running water, heavy-duty electrical outlets, and even a dishwasher. Just be careful—this might bring your kids back faster than you expect!