Life, Styled
You moved into a house that allows you to have an extra bedroom, or maybe the kids have finally left, and you have a spare room, but now what? We would all agree that it is nice to have a spare bedroom, but should it be a guest bedroom, craft room, home gym, or something else entirely? Extra space is a good thing, but if it goes to waste, it has no value. Take the time to evaluate what you need and what could benefit you the most. A good plan yields excellent results and a space that will benefit you now and add value to your home later. Let’s explore some ideas to help get your creative juices flowing.
Playroom
No one ever wants to hinder the kids from having fun or using their imaginations to create incredible adventures, but it can be hard to overlook when it leaves the living room unrecognizable. This is where a designed playroom comes in handy. Not only can the kids feel free to let their imaginations soar, but you don’t have to worry about the mess they make because you simply close the door. Some things you might want to include would be a bookcase, a little seating area, and a toy box, all the essentials for a great playtime.
Home Office
As many work from home, this is becoming more of a need than a want. If you struggle to find the perfect spot for your office away from the office, your spare room may be just what you need. With a window to keep track of the weather and a door to minimize the noise, the solution to your much-needed workspace is closer than you realize. Don’t forget to include ample lighting, a charging station, and a place to organize your supplies.
Family Room
We all love coming home and relaxing with the family, but sometimes that means the living room gets a little messy before bedtime, and if you are like many, you would prefer not to wake up to that mess the following morning. Utilizing the spare bedroom as the family gathering room is an excellent option since it allows everyone to still hang out without the pressure of having to clean up immediately, because you simply close the door before bed. Add a TV, some comfy seating, and you will have the perfect place for everyone to relax and make memories without worrying about a surprise guest seeing the mess.
Home Gym
A spare room can be an excellent area to build the home gym you’ve been dreaming of for months. There is plenty of space for weight lifts, a treadmill, and whatever else you want to include in your new gym. Try adding a few full-length mirrors on the wall so you can watch your form and keep track of your progress. When the weather is bad, or you just need a few minutes to get out the stress of work, your personal gym is just a few steps away, and no hidden membership fees.
Craft Room
Hobbies are a wonderful thing, but we understand that they can’t be done in one sitting, usually, which means the materials need to be left out. Turning a spare bedroom into a fantastic craft room can not only make you feel better because the mess is hidden, but also give you room to motivate your creativity. Add a pegboard to one wall to organize your tools, supplies, and ideas. Storage bins and a work surface are also a must to provide you with the best space to dream.
Guest Suite
We love having people over, but sometimes knowing where they will sleep can be difficult. Instead of moving onto the couch so they can have the master bedroom, why not take that spare room and turn it into the perfect guest retreat? Please include a little seating area so that your guests can have a little place to call their own in the morning or evening to unwind for a moment by themselves. This gives everyone a little space without risking hurting anyone’s feelings or putting someone out.
Mini Library
Are books your great love? Do you struggle to find a place to store everything instead of having it scattered throughout the house? That spare room could become the dream library you always wanted. Lining the walls with custom bookshelves means you can easily find your favorite book to read again or add a few more to your collection. Don’t forget to include a little spot where you can curl up under a blanket with plenty of light to enjoy some time feeding your soul.
Study Room
Whether you have kids who have homework or you are taking some online classes, having a quiet and adequate place to study is a must. Most of us would say we dread using the kitchen or dining room table because of the mess and multiple distractions that happen there. The spare room is a great option. Adding a few desks and chairs, a place to put papers that are due, and a place to put completed papers, and painting the room a calming color can create a space that is conducive to learning.
Recording Studio
Are you a budding artist who wishes you had your own recording studio? Think no further—your spare room can be turned into exactly what you need. Set up your equipment and leave room for a few friends to join you. Make memories, explore your creativity, and maybe launch a new career.
Game Room
Family game night is one of the best ways to have fun with the people you care about, and there is nothing better than having a room entirely dedicated to fun. Include a large table, plenty of comfy seats, easy-to-clean flooring in case those snacks get out of hand, and lots of storage to hold those games. Creating a space where everyone can gather and make memories is a significant investment and ensures many fun evenings ahead. Look here to see some other things you can do with a spare room.
The kitchen has always been considered the heart of the home, but in 2026, it’s evolving even further, becoming a space that blends style, comfort, technology, and connection. Today’s homeowners want kitchens that feel warm, personalized, and highly functional for everyday life.
At Greenbrook Design Kitchen & Bath, we’re seeing several exciting kitchen design trends shaping new builds and remodeling projects. If you’re planning a kitchen renovation, these design ideas are defining the year ahead.
We are honored to share that Greenbrook Design has been featured in the January/February 2026 issue of Kitchen & Bath Design News, appearing on page 66. Being recognized in one of the industry’s most respected national publications is an incredible milestone for our team and a testament to the craftsmanship, creativity, and collaboration behind every project we design and build.
Greenbrook DesignWhen it comes to remodeling your kitchen or bathroom, the choices can feel overwhelming. Big-box stores, online retailers, and out-of-town contractors all promise convenience, but there’s something truly special about working with a local design center
If you’ve ever watched a home renovation show or scrolled Pinterest for inspiration, you’ve probably thought, “I could do that myself.” DIY kitchen and bathroom remodels can seem appealing, especially when you’re trying to save money.
If you’re craving a home that feels fresh, calm, and elevated, without looking stark or trendy, warm neutrals are having a major moment. One shade we’re loving for kitchens, baths, and whole-home design is Sherwin-Williams Color of the Year: Universal Khaki, a grounded neutral that brings soft warmth, subtle depth, and timeless character to cabinetry and interiors.
Greenbrook Design