What To Do With A Formal Dining Room Space

As someone who has had a formal dining room in their home for years, I can attest to the fact that it can be a tricky space to decorate and utilize. It’s often a large room that sits empty for the majority of the year, only getting used during special occasions or holidays.

Current Trends

The current trend for formal dining rooms is to make them more versatile and functional for everyday use. Many homeowners are converting their formal dining rooms into multipurpose spaces that can be used for a variety of activities, such as:

• Home office or study area
• Game room or entertainment space
• Reading nook or library
• Exercise or yoga room

Step by Step Guide

If you’re considering repurposing your formal dining room, here is a step by step guide to help you get started:

1. Assess your needs: What do you want to use the space for? Do you need storage, seating, or specific equipment?
2. Measure the space: Take accurate measurements of the room and any furniture or equipment you plan to use.
3. Create a floor plan: Use a software or paper and pencil to sketch out a layout that works for your needs and furniture.
4. Choose functional furniture: Look for furniture that is multi-functional, such as a table that can be used for dining, work, and games.
5. Maximize storage: Use built-in shelving, cabinets, or storage ottomans to keep the space organized and clutter-free.
6. Lighting: Install lighting that is appropriate for your new use of the space.
7. Add decor: Add personal touches and decor that match the new function of the space.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas

Here are some top tips and ideas for repurposing your formal dining room:

1. Convert to a home office or study area.
2. Create a game room or entertainment space.
3. Make it a reading nook or library.
4. Transform it into an exercise or yoga room.
5. Use the space as a craft or hobby room.
6. Make it a cozy lounge area for relaxation and conversation.
7. Turn it into a music or art studio.
8. Create a home theater or media room.
9. Use it as a playroom for kids or grandkids.
10. Make it a guest suite with a daybed or pull-out sofa.

Pros and Cons

There are pros and cons to repurposing your formal dining room. Here are a few to consider:

Pros:

• Increased functionality and versatility
• Maximized use of space
• Opportunity to create a personalized and unique room

Cons:

• Loss of traditional dining space for special occasions
• Potential for decreased home value if the change is not well-received by future buyers
• Investment of time and money to transform the space

Personal Review and Suggestion

After converting my formal dining room into a home office, I can say that it was the best decision I could have made. The space is now used daily and has made a significant impact on my productivity and organization. My suggestion would be to consider your needs and lifestyle before making any changes. If you rarely use your formal dining room, it may be worth the investment to transform it into a space that you will use and enjoy on a regular basis.

FAQs

Q: Will repurposing my formal dining room decrease the value of my home?

A: It depends on the changes you make and how well they are received by future buyers. If you make functional changes that add value and appeal to the majority of buyers, it shouldn’t have a negative impact on your home value.

Q: What if I still want to use my formal dining room for special occasions?

A: You can still use the space for special occasions by incorporating multi-functional furniture that can be easily moved or stored, such as a folding table and chairs. You can also choose to keep the space as a dining room but decorate it in a way that is more functional and modern.

Q: How much should I budget for transforming my formal dining room?

A: The budget will depend on the changes you plan to make and the quality of materials and furniture you choose. It’s important to set a budget before starting any project and to research costs and options beforehand.