The nest is empty. Your kids are gone, leaving behind a bittersweet mix of memories and…well, unused bedrooms. But before you turn those rooms into storage purgatory, consider the possibilities! This is your chance to reclaim a space for yourself, a sanctuary to pursue passions, hobbies, and rediscover.
Whether you crave a craft room, a bigger office, a new home gym, or a cozy guest retreat you are in the right place.
5 tips as you get ready to do a room makeover.
1. Define Your Dream:
With the kids gone, your house is one giant blank canvas. But before you chuck all the mattresses out, remember: they might still crash here after finals or come visit on the weekends from time to time.
So, before you unleash your inner Marie Kondo, let’s dream big! Do you need to move the office out of the kitchen? Maybe you need a home gym and have been itching to upgrade the family treadmill or add a new Peloton to the family? Or maybe you’re picturing a craft room where glitter and glue guns rule and possibly a wrapping paper station. Whatever you decide, you need to visualize your ideal space and let it guide your transformation.
2. Purge:
Out with the outgrown clothes, high school awards and forgotten textbooks that never seemed to have made it to the forefront. Declutter, donate, or sell items that no longer serve you. I have to be honest this one is hard for me. Growing up with very little meant you kept all you had and you don’t throw things away. But as my wife says this purge creates physical and emotional space for your new vision.
Please remember, you are not their personal storage unit. You can hang onto things for a time, but this is not meant for you to hang onto everything until they decide they are ready to throw it away. Take time to work through this and decide together what is an important need or a cherished memory. It will not be easy, so be patient as you do this part.
3. Set a Budget
This remodel doesn’t have to cost a lot of money. Sometimes just a new fresh coat of paint can make a huge difference. Keep in mind as you are making paint color options.
4. Maximize Storage:
Clutter is the enemy here so we need to be intentional with setting up the new room. Built-in shelves, ottomans with hidden compartments, and wall-mounted organizers keep essentials within reach and out of sight. Maximize vertical space with floor-to-ceiling units or hanging baskets. Our favorite room storage bins from Container Store HERE
5. Finishing touches to complete your room makeover
Invest in key pieces that reflect your chosen function. A sturdy craft table with ample drawers, a comfy yoga mat and meditation cushions, or a plush guest bed with luxurious bedding – let your furniture choices set the tone. Infuse your space with personality! Inspirational quotes (hobby lobby), quirky artwork, or your favorite travel souvenirs add a touch of you. Plants bring life and purify the air, while cozy throws and cushions add comfort. My wife painted a piece that we added to the room as the final statement piece. To see the entire room make over click HERE for one of our room transformations from bedroom to craft room.
A scented candle you made, a cozy rug, or a personalized doormat – these small details make your space feel truly your own.
Transforming your kids’ rooms is not a race, it’s a journey of self-discovery. Enjoy the process, experiment, and most importantly, have fun! This is your space, your sanctuary, your chance to create something that reflects your unique passions and brings you joy.
Remember, your empty nest is not the end of the story, it’s the beginning of a new chapter. So grab your paintbrush, roll out your yoga mat, or fluff up those guest pillows – it’s time to make your personal oasis a reality!
Bonus Tip: Get the kids involved! Let them help you paint, choose furniture, or even create artwork for the space. It’s a great way to share memories, bond over the transformation, and create a space they can enjoy when they come for a visit.
Happy transforming
