How to Make the Most of an Underused Spare Room

Every home has one — that room that slowly becomes a catchall for “things we’ll sort out later.” Maybe it’s a former guest room, a home office that’s lost its purpose, or a space filled with boxes that never quite found a home. The good news is, there is enormous potential in these underused rooms. With a thoughtful approach and a little bit of effort, you can turn them into some of the most rewarding spaces in your home.

Here’s how to make your spare room not just functional, but beautifully intentional.

The first step is always function. Ask yourself what your home truly needs more of.
Do you need a calm space to work, a cosy reading nook, a creative studio, or perhaps a walk-in wardrobe or wellness retreat? The most successful rooms serve a genuine purpose in your daily life. They’re not just a Pinterest fantasy.

Once you’ve decided, let that purpose inform every design choice, from the paint colour on the walls to the lighting temperature. For instance, a home office might thrive with cool-toned neutrals for focus, while a meditation or yoga space will benefit from soft, warm hues that invite calm.

Before you buy a single item, repaint. Nothing transforms a neglected space faster. Paint instantly refreshes walls and sets the mood for whatever you’re creating.

• For multifunctional rooms, we recommend a mid-tone neutral. Warm greige like Mulberry Mist or a soft brown like Drawing Board pair easily with changing furniture or decor.
  
  

• If it’s becoming a guest retreat, go for a soothing palette of misty blues or calming greens for a space to truly unwind in. We love the shades Feeling Free, Soft Wave, Craft Fair, and Sow Good for creating a tranquil feel.
  
  

• Creative spaces can carry more energy, so consider a dusty terracotta like Candy Clay or a muted yellow like Egyptian Sand that inspire without overwhelming.
  
  

Remember, paint isn’t just for walls. You can use it to zone the space. For example, painting the ceiling a deeper tone to create intimacy, or adding a colour block behind a desk to define a “workspace” without erecting walls.

Spare rooms are often small, so scale is everything. Choose multipurpose pieces — a sofa bed, a storage ottoman, or a slimline desk that doubles as a vanity.
If the room’s layout feels awkward, consider rearranging before replacing. Sometimes simply floating furniture away from walls or painting built-ins to match the wall colour can make a space feel twice as large.

Good lighting transforms how a space feels and functions. Mix ambient, task, and accent lighting to suit different moods. A sculptural floor lamp or wall sconces can elevate a room instantly, and if you’ve just repainted, the way light plays off your new wall colour will make it feel like a completely different space.

To avoid that “spare” feeling, layer in tactile materials (wool throws, woven baskets, linen curtains). Even minimalist rooms need texture to feel finished.
And don’t underestimate the power of art or colour contrast. Against a freshly painted wall, even a single large canvas or framed textile can become a statement piece.

6. Keep it Flexible

If you want your spare room to do double duty (say, a home office and guest room) flexibility is key. Keep the base neutral (paint, flooring, and large furniture), then use textiles and accessories to shift the atmosphere. A pull-out bed with crisp bedding and a few candles can transform a work zone into a welcoming retreat in minutes.

An underused room is really just untapped potential. With a clear purpose, fresh paint, and a few intentional design choices, you can create a space that supports your lifestyle — not just stores your overflow.

Design isn’t about perfection; it’s about purpose and comfort. And sometimes, all it takes to uncover both is a single weekend, a plan, and a paintbrush.