What to Do with a Spare Room: 8 Ideas to Transform Extra Space

A spare room is a luxury many homeowners and renters often don’t know what to do with. It can easily become a clutter magnet, or remain completely unused. But that extra square footage holds loads of potential. Whether you're craving a peaceful retreat, a productive workspace, or a unique space for your hobbies, your spare room can become one of the most valuable areas in your home.

Here are 8 creative and practical ideas to help you transform your spare room into a purposeful space:

With the rise of remote work and hybrid schedules, a dedicated home office is more relevant than ever. A spare room can easily become a great place to be productive with the right setup: a comfortable desk, ergonomic chair, good lighting, and reliable internet. Make use of the space by adding floating shelves for storage and use calming colours like blues and greens to help increase focus and productivity.

For growing families, the spare room can quickly become a much-needed space for a nursery or playroom. A designated play area helps keep toys from overtaking the rest of the house.

For nurseries consider using the space for the cot, changing table and rocking chair. Also think about soft lighting and storage for baby essentials. For playrooms consider soft, foam flooring, toy bins to keep it tidy and fun, themed decor.

Tired of gym memberships or driving to get to gym classes? Your spare room could become a personal fitness sanctuary. Whether it’s for lifting weights, practicing Pilates, or meditating in peace, this setup promotes health and wellbeing right at home. You could also install a wall-mounted TV or tablet holder for workout videos.

If you're a hobbyist, artist, or DIY enthusiast, a creative studio can give you the freedom to dive into your projects without cluttering the kitchen table. Consider storage units for organising your supplies, getting a large table for spreading out materials or boards for inspiration Even if your passion is niche like model trains, candle making, or calligraphy, a spare room can become your place to get creative.

Imagine a quiet, book-filled escape from the noise of daily life. A home library doesn’t have to be grand. A few shelves, a comfy armchair, good lighting, and some soft music can create the perfect space for reading and reflection. Upgrade the space with a rolling ladder or add a fireplace/faux fireplace for setting the right ambiance.

If your current closet is bursting at the seams, why not turn your spare room into a walk-in wardrobe? Essentials for a walk-in wardrobe include built in wardrobes or clothes racks, a full-length mirror and a vanity table with lighting for doing make up or grooming.

This setup can make your morning routine easier and create a sense of organisation while giving you a luxe boutique feel at home.

For families or anyone who loves entertainment, a game room can be a fun and functional addition. Add cosy seating, snack storage, and mood lighting to make it a perfect hangout zone for kids or adults.

If you have friends or family who visit often, turning your spare room into a cosy guest bedroom is a classic and practical option. Even a small space can be transformed into a welcoming retreat with the right layout. To cater to everyone’s tastes, keep the décor neutral and use multifunctional furniture like a daybed or sofa bed to keep the space easy to use for when guests are not around. It’s also a good idea to provide basic amenities like fresh towels and a mirror to make them feel welcome on arrival.

Your spare room is more than just extra space, it’s an opportunity. Whether you’re looking to maximise practicality or create a space for your passions, the right transformation can improve your lifestyle and even increase your home’s value.

Before you start, take time to plan your ideas for the room. What do you truly need? What would bring you joy or relief in your everyday life? Once you’ve chosen a purpose, make a plan, set a budget, and enjoy the creative process.