If you now have a spare room, you may be wondering what to do with it. Maybe the kids are off to college, or you might have moved closer to friends and family so you don’t need a guest room all year around. Whatever the reason, if you find yourself with an underutilised spare room – lucky you!

Here are some great ideas for transforming your spare room into a usable space that fits your lifestyle.

1. Design a Home Office

These days, if you are like many others the first thing that comes to mind when you have extra space is to create a home office so you can work from home. There are multiple options available, from large free-standing executive desks to corner desks and smaller writing desks. You can include matching file cabinets and bookcases, and don’t forget the ergonomic chair. Including a sofabed is a smart idea. Gather your thoughts and take a phone call during working hours, and transform your office into a sleeping space for occasional overnight guests.

2. Make it a Playroom

You can transform your spare room into a playroom for the kids, especially if it is downstairs and the kids are younger. You can paint a large chalkboard on one wall and be sure to include a place for toys like a cabinet or use the drawer under a daybed. For school age children, include a workspace that can be used as a homework station.

3. Create a Cozy Library

For some, having a place to curl up with the latest novel is their idea of heaven. Select a bookcase and an oversized armchair or recliner, and then add an electric fireplace or wood-burning Franklin stove for warmth.

4. Convert It To a Media Room

Get some cozy loveseats and beanbag chairs, add a media console for the TV and video games, and voila! You have a convenient media room. Keep one wall blank so you can project films and think about adding a bar cart.

5. Turn it Into a Cozy Retreat

You can create a welcome escape for guests-or for yourself-by turning your spare room into a luxe retreat. Think about adding a versatile sofabed with high-end quality linens, amenities like a stylish vanity or cabinet and an armoire to store your hobbies and hide the TV.