Room for recreation
Building your perfect rec space starts with a good plan
by DAN JONES
When you envision a space in your home that you and your loved ones will enjoy, what does it look like?
It’s a question that Bryan Sebring, president and founder of Sebring Design Build, asks potential clients. His Chicago-based company offers a range of home remodeling and design services, including recreation rooms.
A rec room is a space used for games and other forms of entertainment. The quintessential rec room should be a blend of fun and functional, Sebring says. But it goes deeper than that, he adds.
“The No. 1 thing I am looking for in a rec room is that it solves a problem, usually by age,” says Sebring, who is a Costco member. “From children, to middle school, to high school, to adult spaces—how can this room help?”
Plan it out
When it comes to setting up a rec room, use the space you have. That could be a basement, garage, attic, spare bedroom or loft.
Patricia Gray, an interior designer in Vancouver, British Columbia, says gathering feedback is key when it comes to execution. “Take a poll of your family’s interests before you start your planning,” the Costco member says. “Consider all members of the family. Make lists and have everyone contribute.”
Finding the right theme
Your rec room may have one specific theme or purpose, or it could serve multiple roles for different family members.
A space with a flat-screen television and a round table for card games or trivia creates possibilities for either a theater or a gaming night. The room might include a surround sound system, a snacking area with a microwave oven, board games and puzzles. Blackout coverings for windows will ensure an ideal movie setting, Gray says.
Furnishing a space with a built-in bar with stools and a dartboard might make for the ultimate adult hangout. Additions like a golf putting mat or foosball or billiard table could take it to another level.
A room for children or teenagers might feature beanbag chairs, a video gaming station and a mini fridge for goodies. For families with younger kids, a contained play spot for toys means parents and siblings won’t have to dodge potential tripping hazards around the house. Dual television screens could help create an option for tech-minded teenagers who want to game on their own while other family members watch a movie.
Other factors
Furniture, carpeting, lighting and art can go a long way to establish the motif of your rec room, Sebring says. Sectionals and sofas, pillows, chairs and tables will set the tone, and new carpeting or a large rug will offer a comforting feel to the area.
“If you like to have parties where people dance, arrange your furniture so that there is floor space available,” Gray adds.
For light, would you benefit from a manufactured or a natural source? Styling content creator Amy Stansfield says bright lights are a no-go because they aren’t relaxing. Instead, she suggests using ceiling spotlights or wall sconces that have a dimming function.
“Also, make sure to place lighting strategically,” says Stansfield. “If you have a table where you play games, make sure the lighting is above this so that you can see clearly and not strain your eyes. If you have a cozy reading corner, have a lamp next to your chair.”
Art can include more than just paintings. A sports room could showcase autographed memorabilia, a neon sign might present well in a tavern-like setting, while vintage movie posters will resonate with a cinema or speakeasy theme. Family photographs, plants and retro items such as arcade games will set your space apart too.