New research has shown how Britons are getting more creative with their spare bedrooms. TV star and interiors expert Sarah Beeny offers her top tips on revamping a guest room.
The survey carried out by contemporary wallpaper specialists Inspired Wallpaper asked people to explain exactly how they are getting the most out of their extra space. The results were as follows…
A guest room for when family/friends come to stay
Home office
Hobby room
Walk-in wardrobe
A home gym
Rent it out for extra income
According to a second part of the survey, 22% of people are interested in renting out their unused space in order to make some extra cash. Under the terms of the Government’s Rent a Room Scheme, UK residents are able to earn up to £7,500 a year tax-free by renting out a furnished room in their home.
This has risen from £4,250 last year, and our survey results show that many Britons are keen to make the most of the changes.
Christine Westcott, Head of Design at Inspired Wallpaper, said that as services like Airbnb grow in popularity, people are now putting far more thought and effort into decorating their spare rooms:
“A lot of us have extra space in our homes that is going unused, and this is a real waste. Our spare rooms have so much potential and it’s important that they’re not overlooked. The way in which you design your room depends on what you plan to use it for. If you’re creating a guest room, you should choose patterns and colours that are welcoming and soothing – perhaps some soft pastel shades.
“More people are now working from home, so having an office in your spare room makes perfect sense. You need to select colours that help to boost your productivity. Blue is said to stimulate the mind, whereas pink is thought to be calming and reassuring. Whatever you choose, make sure you put your own personal stamp on your spare room.”
Sarah Beeny, TV star and owner of estate agency Tepilo, offered some expert tips specifically for homeowners who are planning to revamp their spare room in order to bring in some extra cash:
“It goes without saying that a spare room should be spotlessly clean in order to ensure it looks its best, but de-clutter whilst you’re at it too. Getting rid of unnecessary furniture and clutter will make a room feel much larger and help to really show off its full potential.
“Work out the type of person you think your room will appeal to and then decorate it and dress it accordingly. I’d always suggest going for neutral décor, and then adding some stand-out pieces that will give it a bit of personality. Great duvet sets, lamps and cushions can really bring a room to life and help it appeal to your target audience.
“Nobody wants to live in a gloomy, stuffy room, so make the most of the natural light that streams into it. Get rid of blinds and dark curtains that block light out and strategically place mirrors in places that will reflect sunlight to make the room seem even brighter.”