Setting aside a portion of your home for a games room creates a fun and safe environment for the entire family. Whether used for a family game night, poker night with the boys or a place for the kids and their friends to unwind, a new games room is sure to become the center of activity for any household. At first, designing a new room can seem a daunting task, but with a little planning, building your new games room should be a breeze.
You will probably want to start with deciding on a theme for the new room. You have almost limitless possibilities here. You might decide on creating a mini pool hall complete with a full sized pool table and all the necessary accessories and furniture. Maybe add a dart board or two, or even a Foosball table for an added touch. Don’t forget the built-in bar complete with a refrigerator and sink. Maybe a little less physical activity is to your liking. Go with a nice card table or two for that Poker room feel. Don’t forget the kids; adding board games and puzzles can keep them occupied for hours. For those into high-tech gaming, a huge flat screen and a home theater sound system would be a bit hit.
Probably the most important thing to keep in mind is to make sure your available room fits your desired activity. You are going to need considerable space for a full sized pool or Ping-Pong table. You will not need nearly as much for a card table and a few chairs. No one wants to play pool in a cramped space; playing cards in the midst of a vast, empty basement won’t feel right either.
No games room would be complete without just the right furniture. There are many different styles and options available here, but again, it’s best to match the function of the room to the furniture you choose. As a general rule, you are going to want furniture that is both functional and comfortable; while at the same time, able to stand up to the wear and tear of everyday use. Bar stools and pub tables are great choices for the pool hall themed room, while a comfy sofa or a few gamer chairs would be a better fit for the X-Box crowd. A simple card or poker table and some sturdy chairs can also be a practical option. On a final note, pick furniture that can be easily cleaned. Spills and other accidents are going to happen.
Next up: flooring and lighting. Choosing the proper flooring is sometime overlooked, but the right floor can really pull a room together. Two popular options are carpet and wood flooring. Carpet provides a softer surface, and is great for when kids feel the need to spread out, but is more difficult to keep clean. Wood flooring is easier to maintain and looks great, but can be somewhat tiring to walk on for any extended length of time. Matching the floor to the function of room is important.
Lighting is available in several different types and styles, but your choices may be limited by the available electrical service in your room. Recessed fluorescent and flush-mounted lights are great choices for whole-room lighting, while spot and track lights can provide just the right amount of illumination in a smaller area. A custom-made billiard table light can greatly enhance the look of any games room
Now the fun really begins. Choosing the various decorations and accessories allows you the freedom to really put your own personal brand on your new room. Vintage signs and neon lights can add a sense of nostalgia, while black or chrome accessories can lend a sleek, modern look. Movie and sporting posters can be used to add color and depth. Consider painting the walls and trim in your favorite team’s colors for a great look.
A new games room can be a great addition to any home. Keep these simple tips in mind when designing your new room, and before you know it, you’ll be having the time of your life, right in your very own home.