Using a dining room as a bedroom means more functional square footage for some homeowners.
Unless you have a big family and run your household like a "Leave It to Beaver" episode, chances are that big dining room in your home is wasted space. Turn that catchall area for mail and homework into a usable and functional bedroom space. Larger dining rooms can include storage spaces, while smaller rooms can be transformed into a delightful nursery or child's room. Give built-ins new purpose and close the room off either in permanent fashion or with a temporary solution that fits your lifestyle now. No matter your approach, you are sure to enjoy your bedroom addition.
Instructions
1. A plush area rug can add definition and warmth.
Place a large area rug in the middle of the room to cover a wood floor and make the room feel warmer for use as a bedroom.
2. Sheer drapes let in the light, while room-darkening drapes make it easy to sleep.
Cover the windows with pleated shades and a sheer curtain, heavy drape or black-out curtain. Keep it light and airy for a child's room or guest room; darker window coverage may be better for an older permanent resident.
3. Place a bed between windows or at an angle from the corner of the room.
4. Add a trunk or settee at the end of the bed to "cap it off" and give the bed more definition.
5. Turn built-in bureaus or cabinets meant for dishes into a library area. Place a chair nearby along with a reading lamp and fill glass-door cabinets with books and knick-knacks.
6. Address the opening in the dining room. Hang French doors, a curtain rod and heavy curtains or a shoji screen to define the space as private quarters.
7. Add storage by placing an armoire against one wall in the room. Use under-bed storage boxes if the room is too small to provide a standard closet space.
8. Bright colors make a festive room for a child.
Dress the bed elegantly. Use lighter colors and plenty of layered pillows for a child's room; a more gold- or jewel-toned bedding will please an older adult.
9. Place a mirror and a small side or dressing table against another wall if space allows.
10. Paint a headboard onto the wall behind the bed to save valuable space and add a dramatic artistic element to the room. Use a decorative stencil or peel-and-stick artwork if you prefer.
Tags: child room, dining room, curtain heavy