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Creative ways to transform your spare room into an alternative space

Use every inch of your living space with these hardworking pieces
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If you have a spare room that isn’t living up to its potential, why not get creative and transform it into a space you’ll love to use?

Many of us leave spare rooms as bedrooms for visiting guests, meaning they sit empty for most, if not all, of the year. These ideas might inspire you to take a new approach instead; create a space that excites you and allows you to do more of what you love.

A home office for creatives

A home office doesn’t have to be strictly about the work you do from 9-5. It can also be a workshop, craft room or art studio. It can be the go-to place for the gamers in your life. There are no rules. Your “work” space should suit your needs and interests, so feel free to customize it accordingly.

The multitasking versatility of the Aldwin lift top desk is pretty impressive. It’s basically a standard desk and a standing desk all in one. This piece from Mane + Mason™ is made of pine veneers and wood that has been treated with a distressed grey finish. It has a rustic farmhouse style with an industrial twist, thanks to the metal bracket accents. It also features some modern conveniences, in the form of conveniently placed AC power/USB plug-ins.

If you or someone in your family is into gaming, a comfy gaming desk could be a great addition to your home. The Barolli gaming desk is sleek and contemporary, done in gunmetal grey. Details include an open raceway for power cord management, a separate shelf for your desktop monitor, a PC stand for easy access and a custom-designed headset hanger. This one boasts atmosphere too, with its LED backlight in multiple colour options. It even has an electric can-cooler built in!

There’s something utterly charming about the Gerdanet L-desk. This stylish piece is both compact and multipurpose, a work surface and a shelving unit in one. The light brown/black colour palette is warm and would complement any style of décor. The side storage unit can be used for display, to help keep you organized or as a home for your most cherished books.

A personal library or study hall

Speaking of books, many bibliophiles love displaying their collections and often dream of having a room just for themselves, where they can read, write and think in a quiet environment.

If you have a large collection, the Janismore large bookcase offers plenty of storage and a substantial, commanding presence. Use just one or multiples, depending on the space you have; fill the shelves with just books, library-style, or break up the display with a few of your favourite decorative objects. It has an on-trend weathered gray finish and a wire-brushed texture; of the five shelves, four are adjustable.

The Realyn bookcase is open and airy, ideal for those with a real eye for décor. Stack your books on these shelves, intersperse your favourite titles with a few potted plants, framed prints or photos, and mementos from your travels.

No library would be complete without a big, comfy chair to sink into. The Wittlich swivel glider recliner has deep seating, plush cushions wrapped in a cosy chenille fabric, a pull tab reclining motion and a 360-degree swivel.

A wellness room

No matter what your preferred method of self-care or relaxation, you can design your home wellness room accordingly. Create a space where you can do yoga or practice meditation, blocking out distractions from the outside world.

The cool tones in the Hebruns area rug would lend a soothing feel to any space. The distressed pattern is laidback and casual, done in cream with shades of blue and beige.

Some textile art would add even more texture to this relaxing spot. This Taylen wall art is playful, a woven tapestry in black/natural with a relaxed, boho chic vibe. Maybe you’d rather have some subtle shine and warmth in this space. This Devlan wall art is a unique piece that mimics erosion; it includes five pieces that have been hand-painted with gold leaf embellishment.

Guarantee your zen with the promise of some warmth. This Willowton TV stand with fireplace creates instant atmosphere. It makes any room feel like a private retreat. The LED fireplace insert offers seven temperature settings, a multi-flame system and five brightness levels; you can operate the LED flame with or without the infrared heat, so you’ll always be comfortable.

Ashley HomeStore North offers a wide range of furniture pieces, artwork, decorative accents and storage solutions for every room in your home. Looking for more great design ideas? Follow the store on Instagram.