Attic Bonus Rooms
Most homeowners wish for more space or additional rooms, sometimes for daily living, other times for hosting purposes. Although this need can be met by building an addition onto an existing house or by purchasing a new, larger home, those options are not always financially feasible. If your home includes an attic, this can become a viable bonus space. A contractor can help navigate any lighting, plumbing or insulation challenges, and a designer can guide you through layout and construction so you can maximize your options. With careful thought and planning, an attic can become as fully functional as the rest of the house. This blog presents a wide range of ideas to kickstart your dreaming and planning.
- Bedroom
Whether you need a master suite or an additional children’s bedroom, your attic might be just the spot. If space allows for both a bedroom and master bathroom, you can create a haven away from the rest of the household. An attic can also become a bedroom for an older child desiring some privacy, or multiple bunkbeds could be built under the eaves for siblings who share a room. Proper lighting and soft textiles will keep an attic bedroom cozy and welcoming.
BONUS TIP: Keep brick gable walls exposed to bring texture and character to the room.
- Guest Quarters
Hosting overnight guests becomes even easier when they have a separate space of their own. An attic could easily be converted into guest quarters, including a bedroom, bathroom, and seating area for long-term guests. A sleeper sofa could serve dual purpose for relaxation and accommodation for additional guests.
BONUS TIP: Install French doors between the bedroom and seating area to offer privacy without blocking natural light.
- Family Room
Gather your family for movies and game nights in a well-designed attic family room. Keep stairs open to create a loft that connects to the rest of the house. Install a pantry and mini-fridge so snacks and beverages are easily accessible. Soft carpet or a generous area rug will provide a comfortable place for children to play.
BONUS TIP: Install a wall of windows on one or both gables for natural lighting and a fabulous third-floor view.
- Game Room
Attics typically offer wide open spaces, perfect for a ping pong or pool table. A large sectional sofa centered around a TV is the perfect set up for gaming competitions and keeps the noise centered in one area. A colorful rug will ground the space and create an extra spot for people to gather. Include a small circular table for board games and puzzles, which can be stored in a nearby cupboard or cubbies with bins.
BONUS TIP: Keep the cathedral ceiling and paint it white to create a bright, spacious feel.
- Home Office
Working from home can be difficult without a dedicated space for all your business-related needs. Relocating your office to the attic removes you from the distractions of everyday life and allows you to focus on the job at hand. Install ample counter space so you can spread out paperwork or projects without needing to clear them off the dining room table at the end of the day. Skylights can be installed directly above the desk area for prime sunlight access.
BONUS TIP: Include a coffee bar and snack cupboard to limit your trips downstairs.
- Home Gym
Get rid of the treadmill perched in the corner of your bedroom or yoga mat rolled up and tucked into a closet! Turning your attic into a workout space frees up the rest of your home for its intended purposes and allows you to keep your equipment all set up and ready to go. Install a big screen TV and Bluetooth speakers to keep you company and make the time go faster.
BONUS TIP: Install mirrors along one wall to create the illusion of space and allow for better workouts.
An attic offers endless possibilities for additional living space. Install windows, prioritize good lighting and keep your colors light and bright to create an inviting atmosphere. Your attic could be the key to making your current home the house of your dreams.