Multipurpose Bedroom Ideas

Work

• Have an office in your bedroom. Consider size carefully. Instead of a big, space-hogging desk, try a smaller unit or one designed to fit neatly into a corner. Instead of a large filing cabinet for storage, install wall mounted shelves above the desk. And if the available space is extremely limited, instead of a traditional office chair, use one that can be folded and leaned out of the way against a wall when it’s not in use.

Fitness

• Set up a small home gym in the extra space in the bedroom. Keep the space from getting too crowded by using only one piece of equipment, something that gives a thorough workout, such as a treadmill, exercise bike or rowing machine. Or, leave the space open so you can work out along with aerobic or yoga videos. Bring in a little table on which you can stack towels or keep your water bottle, and consider installing or bringing in a floor-to-ceiling mirror.

Pastime

• If there’s a hobby that you enjoy, create a craft area in your bedroom. Bring in shelves or a bookcase on which you can keep baskets and containers of everything you need for your hobby, whether it's assembling miniature antique cars or sailboats, painting, scrapbooking or putting together jigsaw puzzles. For example, if you like to sew, stock your craft space with everything you need: needles, pincushions, fabric, thread and pattern books.

Safekeeping

• If your closets are inadequate, use that extra bedroom space as storage. Purchase a few stackable shelf racks or clothing racks, which you can buy inexpensively at a home supply or department store, to store all your overflow items: shoes, winter coats and boots, sports gear, luggage, blankets and purses. Close the makeshift closet off from the rest of the bedroom by hiding it behind a room divider, such as a folding screen or a hanging curtain.