So the kids have moved out and you suddenly have space to spare. Too often that space becomes a free storage unit for the leftover items your children didn’t want cluttering their new home or it becomes a dumping ground for all those items that can never seem to find a permanent home. You know… the craft projects that were never completed, the ever growing collection of nylon grocery bags or the backup luggage you are keeping in case the other backup luggage suddenly falls apart.
If this sounds familiar then now is the time to consider how you would really like to use and enjoy that space. First thing you’ll want to do is remove the clutter and completely clear the space. Now you have a clean pallet and the possibilities are endless; here are a few suggestions to get you started.
Exercise Room: If you enjoy exercise, but not necessarily going to the gym, then an exercise room may be the perfect solution. Focus on the activities that you truly enjoy and purchase only the equipment you know you will use. For example, do not purchase that top of the line treadmill if you hate stationary aerobic equipment. People often purchase exercise equipment because they feel they should do a certain activity; then end up using the equipment as a clothing rack because they don’t enjoy the activity.
Media Room: Create a media room with comfy chairs, big screen TV and refreshment center.
Entertainment Room: This could be a bar with a pool table and dart board or an area for a poker table or portable card tables.
Crafter or Hobby Room: Add long tables with roll out drawers, peg boards and lots of cubbies to create a customized space for all of your crafts.
Office: If you have always wanted to start your own business this may be your golden opportunity. Add a desk, a couple of book cases, a file cabinet and you have the beginnings of a great work space.
Meditation or Reading Room: Maybe you’re looking for a place to quiet your mind and have some time to reflect and read. Find a comfy chair, good lighting, and maybe a plant or two and try to keep the number of items in the room to a minimum for the most soothing effect.
Guest Room: Many people like to have space for family and guests to visit without sending them to a local hotel or blowing up an air mattress. Create a spa like space with reading materials, fluffy towels, baskets with personal toiletries and brochures of the local sites.
Closet Room: This is my personal favorite! Turn that space into a room sized closet complete with dressing table, island, shoe wall and built in jewelry organizer. It just doesn’t get any better.
Darla Pompilio
Your Tasks – Our Time, Inc
