The modern home is constantly evolving to meet the needs and preferences of the homeowner. A National Association of Home Builders study found that the average home size has increased by almost 1,000 square feet since 1973. This increase in space can be attributed to various factors, including the growing popularity of home theaters, game rooms, and other bonus spaces.
While these extra rooms are undoubtedly popular, they are no longer essential. Every homeowner’s needs and preferences differ, so it’s important to tailor your home to fit your lifestyle. Here are a few underrated rooms that can make a big difference in your home life.
Home Office
A home office is a must-have in today’s world, with remote work becoming increasingly commonplace. With the emergence of global digitalization, it has become easier to work from any location. As such, having a dedicated space in your home where you can focus and work productively is invaluable. A home office can be outfitted with all the essential amenities, such as a desk, internet router, and filing cabinet.
Building a home office will require you to determine which space offers the best environment for productivity. You’ll need to consider the noise level and the amount of natural light available in each room. This will ensure that you can work comfortably and efficiently in your home office. Of course, distractions will always be a factor, but having a dedicated space with all the necessary amenities can help you stay focused.
Fortunately, building a home office does not have to be expensive. Numerous budget-friendly options, such as wall organizers and furniture from thrift stores, are available. You can also find some great deals online. The home office can be any design you want, especially when shopping for the right pieces.
Mudroom
A mudroom is an often-overlooked room that can provide many valuable functions. This room typically serves as a transition space between the outdoors and indoors, allowing you to quickly remove outdoor items such as shoes, coats, umbrellas, and backpacks before entering your home. It also provides a convenient storage area for these items, preventing them from cluttering up your living spaces.
You should carefully plan the mudroom design based on how much storage space is needed and what type of items will be stored there. You’ll need to consider whether to use shelves or cubbies for organizing things and opt for sturdy hooks if hanging coats or bags are part of the plan. If you have pets, a pet-washing station may be necessary to contain dirt and messes from their outdoor adventures. Additionally, if you live in a region with a lot of rain or snow, having a mudroom will allow you to quickly transition between the outdoors and indoors without dripping water all over the house.
Finally, remember to make sure your mudroom is stylish and functional. Consider adding some decorative touches such as wall art or rugs to give it character and tie it into the rest of your home’s design.
Sunroom
A sunroom is a great way to enjoy the outdoors while remaining in the comfort of your own home. This room is typically constructed with large windows and doors providing abundant natural light and ventilation.
Sunrooms can be used in many different ways, depending on your preferences. They make great reading rooms, art studios, or spaces to relax and enjoy the view. You can also use them to host outdoor parties or family gatherings during cooler months when going outside isn’t an option.
When planning a sunroom, it is essential to choose materials that are resistant to moisture and heat. For instance, opt for materials such as aluminum or vinyl for windows and doors, as they will withstand extreme temperatures more effectively than wood or other materials.
However, adding a sunroom can be challenging for the average homeowner. As a result, it might be best to get sunroom installation services to ensure that the job is done correctly and up to code.
Overall, adding a sunroom can be a great way to increase the value of your home while also giving you a place to enjoy nature from the comfort of your home.
Workshop
If you enjoy DIY projects or are interested in woodworking, a workshop might be the perfect addition to your home. This room can provide space for your tools, supplies, and materials. You can also use it to escape everyday life and focus on your craft.
When you plan a workshop, you’ll need to figure out how much space is required and what type of storage. Shelves and cabinets are essential for keeping tools organized and safe from dust, while pegboards are great for hanging smaller items. Additionally, overhead lighting will make the workspace more comfortable and secure when working with power tools or intricate tasks. Furthermore, installing wall shelves or drawers will help you keep track of your supplies and materials.
Finally, you’ll need to determine the best layout for your workshop. The right design will help maximize space and ensure everything is within reach when needed.
Final Thoughts
These are just some underrated rooms that can be added to a home. With careful planning, these rooms can provide practical and aesthetic value to any home. So think outside the box when designing your home and consider adding an office, mudroom, sunroom, or workshop for more functionality and style. With all these options available, there is sure to be something that fits everyone’s needs.
