How to Redecorate Your Child’s Bedroom Once They’ve Moved Out

Your child has moved out. What should you do with their room?

After many years of raising your children, you’ve finally achieved “empty nester” status. It’s the time when your kids spread their wings and live their own lives, and it can leave an empty space not only in your heart but also in your home. More specifically, what will you do with your child’s bedroom once they’ve ventured out into the world?

One of the best ways to handle feelings of missing your children is to turn their bedroom into something that will bring joy to your life. This can take many forms and many people don’t even know where to start, so here are four ideas to get you thinking:

1. A home gym

If fitness and health are important in your life, you might consider turning your child’s room into a home fitness center. Having a gym in your home is one of the most convenient ways to get in your workout without having to get in the car and drive to a commercial gym, plus it saves you from having to pay gym membership fees. Here are a few considerations in creating a home gym:

• Equipment. What do you have already, and what do you still need or would like to add?

• Floor plan. Lay out where each piece of equipment will go. Be sure to leave enough space so you don’t trip over things.

• Update décor. Since you’ll be active in this room, you may want to update or replace the flooring and walls, like harder floors and paint that can be wiped clean easily.

• Hang a mirror. A mirror helps you observe your form during exercises, plus it makes a room feel larger.

• Update lighting. While ample lighting is necessary for a home gym, you don’t want to feel like you’re under a spotlight. Consider bulbs that cast a bright but diffuse light.

1. A home office

If you are one of the millions of people who now work more frequently—or perhaps full time—from home, you might consider a home office. Having a dedicated workspace in your home aids in focus and productivity and also separate your work life from your home life. Here are a few home office tips:

• Comfort + function. If you plan to spend a significant amount of time there, you certainly want your office to look appealing. But you also want to feel comfortable. Select furniture and storage items that will provide both style and comfort.

• Decorate to fit you. You’ll feel more motivated and productive if your décor reflects your personality. This includes walls, floor, and furniture. If you have a hard floor, consider an area rug.

• Cut the cords. With so many electronic devices in use today, offices can become choked with unsightly cable, which can also be a trip hazard. Many companies offer cable hiding products that help you keep them out of sight.

1. A grown-up bedroom (AKA a guest room)

Your child’s old bedroom is a great candidate to become a guest room. Whether you are hosting family or friends from out of town or your child is coming home for a visit, remaking their old room is a great way to repurpose it. Here are a few ways to get started:

• Box up their old toys and either store them or donate them.

• Replace the flooring with hardwood or new carpeting

• Update furniture like chests, chairs, and lighting.

• New bedding and artwork will give the space a more mature look and feel.

1. A hobby room

When your children move out, you may find you have more time to spend on hobbies that you did while your kids were growing up. Or maybe you want to try some new hobbies. Turn your child’s old bedroom into a space for you to paint, play music, work on puzzles, knit, read, write, listen to music—whatever tickles your fancy! Make it a place where you can let your creativity flow freely. Even better, you and your spouse can plan it together and incorporate features that will let you both enjoy your favorite hobbies.