In most homes, the “spare room” ends up being anything but spare. It’s a catch-all for laundry baskets, boxes of Christmas decorations, and the random treadmill you swore you’d use. But with a little thought (and maybe a proper reno budget), that under-appreciated space can transform into the hardest-working room in your home.
Whether you’re hosting friends for the weekend or joining Monday’s Zoom call, here’s how to make a spare room that does both, without feeling cramped or chaotic.
1. Choose Flexible Furniture
Think sofa beds, Murphy beds, or even a daybed that works for lounging and sleeping. The key is avoiding the “massive double bed dominates the room” scenario. A clever fold-away setup instantly frees up floor space for a desk or reading nook.
2. Make the Desk a Feature, Not an Afterthought
Forget shoving a cheap desk in the corner. A wall-mounted fold-down desk or a slim console table can look intentional and stylish. Pair it with a sculptural chair and a great lamp so your workspace feels designed, not temporary.
3. Layer Lighting for Both Moods
Guests want soft, relaxing lighting; you need bright, clear light for work. Solve both with layered options: an overhead pendant, a desk lamp, and a dimmable bedside light. That way the room shifts from “9-to-5” to “sleepover” in seconds.
4. Keep Storage Sleek
Clutter kills versatility. Built-in wardrobes or under-bed drawers are lifesavers for hiding both office clutter and guest suitcases. Bonus points if you add stylish baskets or ottomans for quick-grab storage.
5. Add Personality With Decor
The trick is balance: you don’t want your guests to feel like they’re sleeping in your office, but you also don’t want your work Zoom calls featuring cartoon bed linen. Go for neutral, layered textiles with a few design-led accents (art prints, greenery, or a statement rug) that feel welcoming but professional.
Why It’s Worth the Effort
A dual-purpose room doesn’t just save space, it makes your home more flexible, future-proof, and enjoyable. Instead of a forgotten storage space, you gain a beautiful guest retreat and a calm workspace rolled into one.
🎁 Ready to give your spare room the glow-up it deserves?
Our £10,000 Home Transformation Giveaway could cover everything from fold-away furniture to a full redesign.
👉 Enter here for your chance to win
