Empty Nesters: What Should You Do with That Empty Room?

You thought this day would never come. Your kids are finally out on their own and it’s time to turn that empty bedroom into something a little more useful.
 

1. GET FIT

New room. New you. It’s pretty hard to bail on your exercise routine when the gym is just down the hall, which is why turning that spare bedroom into a fitness center is a great idea.
 
It could be as simple as a few sets of dumbbells, or go all out and get a weight machine and treadmill.
 
Add a TV for following along to your favorite workout videos, or just to pass the time watching your soaps as you pound out some reps.
 

2. BE A BETTER HOST

If a personal gym seems too self-absorbed for you, use your newly abandoned room as a place to generously put up guests.
 
With the kids out of your hair, it might get a little quiet around the house. Having guests over will liven up your empty halls, and a tasteful and comfy guest room makes for better sleeping than the living room couch.
 
So break out your rolodex and call up your college roommate, your second cousin, or even your mother-in-law.

 
3. CLOTHES MAKE THE ROOM

But maybe it’s not your guests that need more room, but your wardrobe. In that case forego the long-distance calls and turn your spare room into an XXL closet.
 
Install shelves, use armoires, whatever you need to organize your clothes. But be careful. The line between glamorous closet/room hybrid and pack rat’s nest is thin.
 
Keep it cool and clutter-free. Hang art, repaint, and make sure you have great (flattering) lighting.
 

4. HOBBY CENTRAL

Fashion isn’t your forte? Maybe something else is taking up all your space in storage. Use this chance to give your hobby room to breathe.
 
Big hi-fi freak? Create a listening lounge for all your rare vinyl.
 
Are sports more your thing? Hang up those autographed jerseys and bring in the big screen for a perfect place to watch the big game.
 
Wherever your passions may lie, turn the newfound space into a palace for your pastimes, a colosseum for your crafts, or a hallowed house of hobbies.
 

5. DO SOME WORK

Two words: home office. Even if you can’t work from home, a dedicated space to pay bills, do taxes, and play Candy Crush will make life so much easier.
 
A home office also brings an air of prestige to a home, until everyone realizes you’re still wearing pajama pants behind that big desk. 
 

6. ASK YOUR KIDS FIRST

Remember that childhood rooms can hold sentimental significance to your kids. So before converting their room into something else, make sure they’re okay with it.
Or don’t.
You’re the parent.
 
If you are looking for a new place to call home now that the kids are on their own, we can help.