Across the country, students are tossing their graduation caps and moving on to the next chapter of their lives. For many parents, this moment comes with a surprising side effect: an empty room at home.

Whether you’ve been dreaming of transforming that space into something meaningful or simply want to make the most of your home’s square footage, here are some important considerations and inspiring ideas to help you turn a bonus room into your next favorite space.

What Is a Bonus Room?

A bonus room—also called a flex room—is typically a room in your home that could function as a bedroom but doesn’t meet code requirements, such as lacking a closet or egress. For our purposes, we’ll also include large nooks or spaces that can comfortably fit furniture and serve a designated purpose.

Questions to Consider Before You Begin

Before diving into paint samples or picking out furniture, take some time to reflect on how you want the space to function and what it will take to get there.

Is It Functional?

Start by assessing the space from a practical standpoint. Ask yourself:

  • Can I access the room easily and use it year-round?
  • Will noise from or in the room be an issue?
  • Is there enough space for what I want to do or store?
  • Can I make any needed updates to meet safety or code standards?

You might also consider splitting the space into zones. For example, a home office could share space with a small workout area or reading nook, using layout or décor to define each section.

How Long Will It Take to Renovate?

Project timelines can vary, so plan to save time and reduce stress.

Do some initial research to define your vision, then visit your local hardware store to learn what materials you'll need. Avoid impulse buys at this stage. Talk with family or friends who’ve completed similar renovations, and see if they’re willing to lend advice, tools, or materials. For larger projects, you may need to consult a contractor or architect.

Once you understand the scope, set a realistic goal. Break your to-do list into essentials, nice-to-haves, and stretch items in case you have extra time or money. Don’t forget to factor in other projects happening around your home to avoid overlapping disruptions.

Determine which major updates should happen first—like painting or changing flooring—before tackling design elements. During downtime, take on smaller tasks to keep the momentum going.

Will This Increase My Home’s Resale Value?

While you’re designing the room for your own enjoyment, smart upgrades can also improve your home’s market appeal. Consider:

What Are You Adding?

Think about functionality. Whether new or secondhand, the value comes from what the item adds to the space: more storage, better lighting, improved convenience, or more durable finishes.

Which Materials Are You Using?

Choose flooring, furniture, and fixtures that are easy to clean, stable, and visually appealing to a broad range of future buyers.

Can Design Choices Be Easily Changed?

If you're leaning toward a bold aesthetic, opt for reversible changes like painted murals instead of permanent wallpaper.

Are There Any Hidden Features Worth Exploring?

Review your home’s blueprint or building records to see if there's an unused nook or sealed-off space that could be repurposed. Even non-load-bearing walls might conceal potential surprises worth investigating.

Pro tip: If a design decision brings lasting joy—even if it doesn’t increase resale value—it may still be worth pursuing. Make choices that serve your life now, not just your future buyer.

Unique Bonus Room Ideas

If your room has an unusual shape or undefined purpose, consider one of these creative transformations:

  • Build an indoor greenhouse for year-round plant care
  • Design a game room for entertainment and family nights
  • Construct a laundry room upstairs for added convenience
  • Set up an art studio for creativity and expression

Small Bonus Room Ideas

Even compact spaces can feel purposeful and polished. Try one of these small-space ideas:

  • Create a meditation zone for quick moments of calm
  • Designate a nap corner for mid-day recharging
  • Build a reading cove for uninterrupted escapes
  • Construct a travel hub to store luggage, souvenirs, and travel documents

To learn more about how APHW can help you care for your home, click HERE to get your free quote today!