Traditionally used for storage due to their small size, box rooms are often overlooked and undervalued when it comes to designing our interior living spaces. Usually considered too small to be used as an everyday adult bedroom, it’s sometimes hard to see the potential in these small spaces when redecorating our homes. However, with some careful planning and a little creativity, there is much that can be done to transform the smallest room in your home into a both a functional and aesthetically pleasing space.

Plan for Purpose

Before you get to work stripping wallpaper and pulling up flooring, think about what you would like your box room to be used for.  For a moment, disregard the size of the space and think about the job you wish the space to perform. Box rooms are often used as nurseries or home offices but there’s no reason why they can’t become guest bedrooms, children’s playrooms, craft rooms, dressing rooms or even cosy snugs in which you can unwind in peace after a stressful day. Cosy reading nooks are all the rage right now and all you need is some shelving, some ambient lighting and a comfortable chair. Perfect!

Utilise Wall Space

Modern homes tend to be designed with less storage space than older ones. As the years go by, it can be difficult to find space to store accumulated possessions and box rooms are often used for such a purpose. Regardless of how small your box room is, it may be possible to give it an additional function without sacrificing much needed storage space.

Bespoke fitted furniture which embraces all available wall space, is ideal for adding a savvy storage solution to an area with limited room for freestanding furniture.  If you are choosing to use your box room as a bedroom, choose a bed with integrated storage space. Those which have lift-up mattresses or space within the headboard are ideal. For those on a tight budget, floating shelves and hanging baskets will provide inexpensive storage without taking up precious floor space.

Make it Work Harder

How ever you choose to use your box room, you will need to save space wherever you can. Whilst fitted storage will help with the overflow from other rooms, multipurpose furniture will add extra functionality to the space.  A sofa bed is ideal if you’ll be using the room as a snug but also need to accommodate the occasional guest. If you’re looking for a combined home office / guest bedroom option, a fold-down bed is ideal to allow for a corner desk and functional office space during the day.

Careful Colours

Despite planning the perfect layout and making the space as functional as possible, you box room is still unlikely to feel roomy.  By choosing your décor carefully, you can prevent the space from appearing even smaller. Avoid using dark colours or bold patterns on the walls, as these often make a room feel more closed in than it is. Cool whites and pale natural shades will keep the room feeling light and airy. Choose simple, modern blinds rather than long, heavy curtains which conceal window bays, and use wall mirrors to create the illusion of extra space.

Lighten Up

Choosing the correct lighting is essential for making a small room seem bigger.  With floor and surface space limited, freestanding lamps and up lights are not ideal and central ceiling fixtures will instantly make a room seem smaller. Instead, opt for basic wall lights or LED ceiling lights to illuminate your box room. Avoid bulky light fittings and choose simple, sleek fixtures which won’t take up too much wall or ceiling space. Well designed modern strip lights placed underneath shelving or built into fitted furniture are perfect for illuminating dark nooks and crannies, and will give your box room a cosy intimate feel.

If you’d like to explore the idea of fitted furniture for your box room, we’d be very happy to help. You can ring us on 01756 700471 or email us at info@hartleysbedrooms.co.uk. Whilst our showroom is closed due to Covid restrictions, we invite you to view our 3D online tour at https://hartleysbedrooms.co.uk/tour/