Tips for Creating the Perfect Game Room for Your Home

When it comes to your home, you want the spaces within it to feel welcoming, warm and cozy. You want to create rooms that you actually want to come home to, that your children and other family members want to hang out in, and that get a ton of use. To that end, a family game room can be the ideal gathering spot. Stocked with your favorite games, accessories and plenty of comfy seating, this space is an integral and important part of the house. Let’s take a look at a few ways you can make yours the number one spot to congregate, relax and enjoy.

1. Use the space strategically.

Some people might be working with an entire, finished basement as their game room space and as such, have plenty of room to spread out. Others might be simply turning a corner of an unused room into theirs. Whatever you’re working with, it’s important to use that space strategically. Make a wish list of all the features you want to include in the room and determine if it’s possible to fit those in the dimensions. For instance, you may want to include a game table such as a ping pong or pool table, but having exactly the right amount of room won’t cut it. Allow for around three to five feet all the way around the table so players can comfortably move around.

2. Maximize your entertainment options.

Especially if you’re turning a basement into a game room, you might only have one television and the game space itself. While this is a fine setup in a pinch, see if you can install a second television in another strategic area, such as over the bar or near the pool table, so everyone can have an unobstructed view of the screen. You don’t have to go out and buy the latest flat-screen model for this additional television and it doesn’t have to break the bank. If you or a family member have an older model one that you’re looking to get rid of, this could be the perfect spot for it.

3. Keep lighting in mind.

Game rooms tend to be in underground spaces or ones with low lighting. As such, the room can quickly feel murky and dank if you’re not careful. Consider installing strategically placed task lighting throughout the space to ensure everyone can see to make those important board game moves. While overhead fluorescents work well to quickly light up a space, they can be stark and make a room feel cold and almost too bright. Instead, opt for plenty of lamps to make the room feel warm and inviting while also providing the visibility that everyone requires.

4. Keep seating comfortable.

No one wants to walk into a game room and sit in a wooden, hard-backed chair. Keep yours hangout-ready by investing in plenty of cushy, soft chairs, sofas and loveseats. You’ll score bonus points if your seating is gaming-appropriate and conducive to playing or participating in the activities, or if it pulls double duty. For instance, you may use your game room as a home office during the day and a family playroom in the evening. Do your research on buying a gaming chair vs office chair to consider which would work best in your space to maximize comfort and productivity.

5. Consider soundproofing.

If you can afford it and it makes sense in your space, you may want to invest in soundproofing your game room. This can be especially helpful if yours is on an upper level and loud festivities could be keeping the rest of the family awake. Noise levels can quickly amplify in a game room and even the most calm game of charades can turn boisterous. From added insulation to new framing, there are myriad ways you can tackle this issue so ask around, contact local contractors and determine the most cost-effective solution for your family.

Your game room has the potential to become the number one space in your home, but to get there, it should be properly outfitted. Otherwise, you could end up spending a ton of money on entertainment that’s rarely interacted with or used. By taking the time to consider your space, plan your setup and stock the room, you’ll up your chances of having the best hangout spot on the block.