Bonus room A bonus room, flex room, multiuse room or spare room (though the latter often means an extra bedroom) is a room created by remodeling or adding an addition that does not meet local building code definitions for traditional rooms, or is designed for multiple possible uses.
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What do you do with a bonus room?
11 Clever Ways to Use Your Bonus RoomHomework room. If you find that your kids tend to leave papers, binders and textbooks all over the house, your bonus room could be the perfect homework space. ... Home office. ... Yoga studio. ... Library. ... Teen hangout. ... Gaming room. ... Music room. ... Home gym.More items...•
What is a bonus room vs a bedroom?
First and foremost, it's extra space, even if it doesn't count as a bedroom because it lacks those roomlike features. Plus, it doesn't count as a room on your property taxes, which are lower as a result. So, a bonus room can offer a “bonus” in square footage, without the financial costs.
Is a bonus room worth it?
Is it a good investment? Depending on what you put into it (bedroom, bathroom, etc.) and where you add it (above the attic, over the garage, in basement, new construction addition, etc.), bonus rooms generally are a good return on your investment dollars, averaging about a 64.4% return, according to the 2016 Cost vs.
What do you call the bonus room?
Flex RoomWhat Is a Flex Room? Whether you call it a flex room, a bonus room, an extra room, or a spare room, this multi-purpose room is defined as an area in a home that can be used for a variety of functions.
Why is a bonus room not considered a bedroom?
Some of the biggest reasons why a bonus room usually does not count as a bedroom include: A bonus room does not have a closet, usually, which is required for it to be counted as a bedroom. A bonus room might not have a door.
Can a bonus room have a closet?
A bonus room is a room in a house that is not a kitchen, bathroom, family room, hallway, or closet — but for one or more particular reasons, it doesn't qualify as a bedroom, either. This room might show up over a garage, for example, or represent attic or basement space in some states.
Are bonus rooms expensive?
At a minimum, you should expect that adding a bonus room will cost at least $15,000-$20,000, but you should expect to spend more than the minimum, especially depending on the size of your addition.
How much value does a bonus room add?
If the idea of additional living space wasn't incentive enough, a finished bonus room is also a worthwhile investment that can add between $10,000 and $30,000 to the value of your home.
How do I turn my bonus room into a bedroom?
3 Success Tips for Turning Your Bonus Room Into a BedroomPut On a Fresh Coat of Paint. If your bonus room has angled walls and slanted ceilings, they may be the reason it feels cramped and claustrophobic. ... Upgrade the Windows. ... Consider Your Floors & Furniture.
How do you stage a bonus room?
Bonus Room Home Staging TipsGive it a Clear Purpose. ... Think About Your Potential Home Buyer. ... Fill Awkward Corners. ... Highlight the Positives. ... Add Special Touches.
What is bonus in floor plan?
In the bonus upper level of the home, you have a space that runs from the front of the home to the back. While not a complete second story, it provides more than enough space for a variety of layout options. One has a large bedroom in the back of the home with a spacious walk-in closet.
Does a bonus room need a window?
Aside from egress, windows and or skylights are required for natural light in a habitable room. Most codes require glazed openings to be a minimum of 10 square feet or 10% of the floor area, so lighting is required. Natural ventilation is also required.
What makes a room a bonus room?
A bonus room, flex room, multiuse room or spare room (though the latter often means an extra bedroom) is a room created by remodeling or adding an addition that does not meet local building code definitions for traditional rooms, or is designed for multiple possible uses.
How do I turn my bonus room into a bedroom?
3 Success Tips for Turning Your Bonus Room Into a BedroomPut On a Fresh Coat of Paint. If your bonus room has angled walls and slanted ceilings, they may be the reason it feels cramped and claustrophobic. ... Upgrade the Windows. ... Consider Your Floors & Furniture.
What makes a room count as a bedroom?
For a room to count as a true bedroom, it must have at least 70 square feet of floor space with a minimum of 7 feet in one direction. If a room is intended for multiple occupants, there should be a minimum of 50 square feet per person.
How much value does a bonus room add?
$10,000 to $30,000On average, you can expect your bonus room to add anywhere from $10,000 to $30,000 in monetary value to your home, although it is very hard to put an official number on this quality since the market is always changing and every home is different.
What is bonus room?
A bonus room is a room in a house that is not a kitchen, bathroom, family room, hallway, or closet — but for one or more particular reasons, it doesn’t qualify as a bedroom, either. This room might show up over a garage, for example, or represent attic or basement space in some states. The types of bonus rooms you might find, ...
What does "bonus room" mean?
But what does that really mean? In short, it means an extra room that isn’t technically a bedroom — and can be whatever you want it to be.
What makes a bedroom… a bedroom?
You might be wondering: Why wouldn’t a seller just call it a “bedroom” instead of a bonus room and potentially drum up more interest in the listing? There’s a reason why sellers don’t: A bedroom must have specific minimum qualities in order to be legally described as such.
Why wouldn't a seller call it a bedroom?
You might be wondering: Why wouldn’t a seller just call it a “bedroom” instead of a bonus room and potentially drum up more interest in the listing? There’s a reason why sellers don’t: A bedroom must have specific minimum qualities in order to be legally described as such.
What is a bonus room without a door?
Same goes for a laundry room. A room without a window is perfect for a music room, where you’d likely want to minimize noise bleed in both directions.
Is a bonus room good?
Overall, a bonus room is perfect when it’s used just the way you want and need.
Can a room be a bedroom?
Note that a room without these characteristics can’t technically be called a bedroom… but it’s certainly up to you whether you choose to use the space as one, anyway!
What is a bonus room?
A bonus room is typically defined as a room that doesn’t meet the requirements of a habitable bedroom. To be habitable, a room must have the following:
Small bonus room ideas
Bonus rooms are typically smaller than a normal bedroom, and it can be difficult to envision how to use such a small space. Check out our ideas below for turning a small bonus room into one of your home’s biggest assets.
Light-filled bonus room ideas
Having extra space that’s filled with natural light is always a benefit. Below are some ideas for turning your light-filled space into somewhere you’ll want to spend all your time.
Bonus room over garage ideas
Oftentimes, the area above your garage will have a bonus space that may or may not be connected to the rest of the house. If there isn’t already a bonus space over your garage, you can choose to convert the space above a single-level garage to get additional square footage out of your property.
Basement bonus room ideas
If your home has a basement, that’s prime square footage that you can finish up to add value to your home. Use these ideas to turn it into a place that everyone will enjoy.
Other bonus room ideas
Bonus rooms are flexible spaces that lend themselves to endless opportunities for your home. Think about your wants and needs, and then tailor the room to fit them. For additional ideas, check out the list below.
What is a bonus room?
A bonus room is simply a room that has no purpose. It’s often found tucked away in the attics or over the garages. Sometimes, the bonus room create challenging layouts to be designed. You will need to have a clever and smart planning in order to define the space to be the best one in the house.
How to use bonus room as media room?
If you want to use your bonus room space as a media room, this one could be a cool design to be applied. As you can see, it’s like a mini movie theater of your own. Just gather some comfy sofas facing the screen and decorate the wall with movie posters.
What to do with one unused room in your house?
Almost all of the spaces inside a house is already having a designated use. For example, you have a kitchen for a place to cook and to gather with family . Another example is the master bedroom which is designed for your nighttime respite.
How many people can sleep in a bonus room?
There will be a room for them to take a rest. It can accommodate up to six people. You can make your guests feel welcomed with this homey design.
What is a large playroom?
Having a large playroom? It would be a dream come true for every parent. It can be a nice room to place games, toys, and any art projects. It can be a great room for kiddie camp of your children. The attic should be the perfect place.
Where should I put a playroom for adult men?
A playroom for adult men tends to be placed in the basement. Having it in a bonus room in the attic could be outstanding. Every man would enjoy the features that this bonus room has. I mean, just look at that pool table, and a large size LED TV to watch the sports.
When you think the bonus room space you have is too small for a playroom, living room, or guest room?
When you think the bonus room space you have is too small for a playroom, living room, or guest room, you can choose it to be your office.
What is a bonus room?
Looking for a place to unwind after a long day? A bonus room is the perfect spot to create your own private lounge area. This room can be used for a quiet reading area, a cozy nap space, or watching your favorite television show. Add a chaise lounge or armchair, fluffy pillows, and blankets, and let the relaxation wash over you.
How to make a multipurpose room?
With a few functional pieces, you can create a multi-purpose room that can transition between playroom, guest room, and office depending on what you need. Use furniture with hidden storage or storage containers to hide any toys or office supplies when guests stay over. Add a large ottoman with storage at the foot of the bed to hold extra towels, linens, blankets, and pillows for your guests to use.
How to keep toys organized in a flex room?
Make storing toys, books, and games easy with bookshelves and cabinets. Or use storage containers and baskets to keep them organized under tables.
What is a flex room nursery?
Whether the room is large or small, flex spaces are perfect for nurseries, as they can easily transition to a toddler’s room in no time. With a crib, a comfy chair, and multi-function changing table, you can truly maximize your available space for your family!
What is flex room?
Flex rooms can be anything from unused space above a garage to a small room on the first level of your home that a builder designated as “flex space” or “optional room.”. These rooms can increase the value of your home, and they give you the ability to change your home for different needs as they arise, such as a growing family or new hobbies.
How to make a home gym with free membership?
With a few free weights, a yoga mat, cardio equipment like a stationary bike or treadmill, you can create the perfect home gym that has free membership! Grab a few fans to keep the space cool, put up some mirrors on the walls, and add a bluetooth speaker for some great music. Rubber mats under cardio equipment or weights will prevent damage to floors, and you can even add a small table for equipment cleaning wipes, water bottles, candles for yoga practice, and more!
Can a futon be used as a bedroom?
Growing families aren’t the only ones who need additional bedroom space. Bonus rooms can easily be turned into a bedroom for a third roommate or a relative planning a long-term stay. A futon or day bed makes for a great space-saving seating area that can easily be turned into a sleeping spot for guests.
What is a good bonus room?
A lounging area is a great place to incorporate any rustic bonus room ideas you may have. Rustic design is core warm and inviting, which is exactly the vibe that attracts people to a bonus room for lounging. Utilizing real wood wherever possible—on doors, ceilings, or shelves—brings home natural textures that can be adapted to modern, cottage, or traditional design plans.
How to make a bonus room look bigger?
Small bonus room ideas that make the most of the available space include built-in bookshelves and desks, set across from a sectional sofa strategically placed in the corner. Both serve to free up floor space for games and other activities. Monochromatic color palettes help a room look larger and their impact is boosted by any natural light beaming in through the windows. Make use of stripes on your walls or rugs, as they tend to visually elongate a space.
How to decorate a TV room?
Of course, comfortable seating is an equally vital element in your theater or TV room. Invest in one or two comfy couches that recline, or purchase reclining theater seats that can be set up in rows. Frame and display some of your favorite movie posters, but keep the overall décor minimal so as to not distract attention away from the screen. Dark walls are helpful when watching a movie during the daytime, but don’t be afraid to run with a lighter color scheme in your home theater if it suits you better. For some ideas on TV walls, check out this article on The 70 Best TV Walls.
What to put behind a bonus room bar?
At minimum, include a sink and small refrigerator behind your bar. Add a microwave oven if space allows. Wall cabinets provide necessary storage for your wine and spirits, and mirrored shelves provide a lovely place to display your glassware. A smaller bonus room bar is a great place to feature a high-end marble or quartz countertop—and don’t forget the bar stools.
Can you have a bonus room in a home theater?
You may not be interested in bonus room ideas that involve creating a quiet place. In fact, your dream bonus room may be a perfectly loud home theater. Smart technology has made it possible to achieve an at-home theater experience that rivals your local cinema.
Can a bonus room be a second living room?
Depending on its size, your bonus room could become a second living room, extra bedroom, playroom, game room, or even a home theater. While many floor plans today include a finished bonus room, many of us must transform an unfinished area if we wish to obtain additional living space.
Can you turn a bonus room into a bedroom?
If your family has grown beyond your home’s original footprint, turning a bonus room into a bedroom can give you the extra sleeping zone you need. A bedroom bonus room is also great for families who need a guest room for visiting family and friends. You may need to come up with some creative bedroom ideas depending on the unused room’s design, especially when it comes to storage.
