How to Transform a Spare Bedroom After the Kids Leave

Erin Stuckey • March 15, 2025

When your kids move out and your nest officially becomes empty, it can be a bit of a bittersweet moment. While it’s hard to see them go, the possibilities to transform your home and lifestyle they leave behind offers an exciting opportunity. With a little creativity and planning, you can breathe new life into your home and reimagine empty spaces like spare bedrooms into a functional, inviting area you can enjoy.

If you’re ready to embrace this new chapter of your life, consider how you can make the most of the newfound space in your empty nest. Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy retreat or a home office built to boost productivity, there are endless possibilities to refresh your home and make it feel good as new. This guide from the pros at Apple Self Storage will provide valuable spare bedroom ideas for a guest room makeover.

Decluttering as Empty Nesters

The first step in reinvigorating your home as an empty nester is decluttering. Letting go of the past can be an emotional process, but it’s also an opportunity to create a more organized and peaceful home .

Start by sorting through your child’s belongings, setting aside sentimental items to keep, and donating or storing items they no longer need. If they still live nearby, don’t forget to invite them over to help with this step. From there, sort through the rest of your home and decide what to get rid of and what sentimental items to keep in storage.

Spare Bedroom Ideas

While downsizing as an empty nester can have its benefits, you may not feel ready to change your home dramatically. Instead, dream big and take advantage of the space you have to work with. Your spare bedrooms can become whatever you want them to be, so consider options that will reflect your personality and suit your lifestyle.

Comfy Guest Suite

One of the most popular ideas for a spare bedroom is turning it into a welcoming guest suite. Add a cozy bed with plush linens and warm lighting, then add personal touches like family photos or framed artwork. This is also a great place to display sentimental items without cluttering up the rest of your home.

Home Office

If you’ve been working at the kitchen table or on the couch, now is the perfect time to create a dedicated home office. A simple desk, comfortable chair, and plenty of natural light can transform your spare room into a productive workspace for your career or personal passion. Add shelves or cabinets to keep supplies organized and maintain a clutter-free environment.

Fitness and Yoga Studio

One of the best ideas we can provide for a spare bedroom is to create a private fitness or yoga studio. Lay down a yoga mat, add a few free weights, and install mirrors to create a calming, motivating environment. No matter how often you workout, this can become your sanctuary for physical and mental wellness.

Small Guest Room Ideas

Even if your spare bedroom is on the smaller side, there are still plenty of ways to make the most of it. Instead of letting your extra room go to waste as a place to leave clutter , turn it into an efficient use of space with some creative small guest room ideas.

Walk-In Closet Room

If you’ve always dreamed of having a walk-in closet in your home, now’s your chance! Install shelves, clothing racks, and drawers to turn your small guest room into an organized wardrobe space. You can even add a small bench and full-length mirror for a touch of luxury.

Craft and Hobby Space

Whether you enjoy sewing, painting, or scrapbooking, a small spare bedroom can become a personalized craft space. Use wall-mounted shelves and storage bins to keep supplies tidy while maximizing your workspace.

Wine Room

Why not create a cozy wine-tasting retreat in the comforts of your home? Install a wine rack, add a small table and chairs, and create a cozy space to unwind with friends and family. A small fridge or wine cooler can help keep your collection at the perfect temperature.

Create Space by Renting from Apple Self Storage

As you navigate the home transformation process, you may find yourself with more belongings than space. Renting a personal storage unit from Apple Self Storage can help you keep sentimental items securely stowed away while opening up room for your new vision. With several unit sizes available , we have the space you need to store everything from furniture to boxes of sentimental items.

Get started today! Find an Apple Self Storage facility near you and put yourself on the path to a clutter-free home. You can also read through our list of frequently asked questions and blog to learn more valuable information.

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