When you think about it, the living room is one of the most important rooms in a house. It’s where we entertain guests, watch TV, and spend time with our families. For many people, the living room is also their main gathering space. If you’re lucky enough to have a second living room in your home, you want to make sure it’s just as comfortable and inviting as the first. But how can you do that on a budget? In this blog post, we will explore some ways to furnish and decorate your second living room without breaking the bank!
What Is a Flex Room?
If you’re like many homeowners, you might have a room in your house that doesn’t seem to fit any particular purpose. Maybe it’s an extra bedroom that you don’t need, or a large den that never gets used. In either case, you might be wondering what to do with this extra space.
One option is to turn it into a flex room. A flex room is a multipurpose space that can be used for a variety of activities.
If you’re thinking about turning your unused room into a flex room, there are a few things you’ll need to do in order to get started.
First, you’ll need to furnish and decorate the room to suit its new purpose. Here are a few tips on how to do this on a budget:
Choose versatile furniture that can be used for multiple purposes. For example, a sleeper sofa can be used as a place to watch TV, take naps, or host guests. Ottoman coffee tables can double as a place to put your feet up or extra seating when you have company.
Get creative with storage. If your flex room is going to be used as an office, you’ll need somewhere to store all of your supplies. Try using baskets, bins, and shelves to keep things organized and out of the way. You can also use wall-mounted shelving to maximize space.
Add some personal touches. To make your flex room feel like home, add some personal touches such as family photos, art work, and throw pillows. You can also add some greenery to the room to make it feel more inviting.
With a little bit of effort, you can turn your unused room into a versatile flex space that the whole family will enjoy. [1]
What Can You Do with a Second Living Room?
Kids Playroom
A great way to utilize a second living room is to turn it into a playroom for the kids. This gives them their own space to play and keep their toys. You can even put a TV in there so they can watch movies while they play.
Guest Room
Another popular option is to use the second living room as a guest room. This way you always have a place for guests to stay when they come over. Plus, it can double as an office or study during the day.
Home Theater
If you love movies, then turning your second living room into a home theater is perfect for you. You can get a big screen TV and some comfortable seating, and voila! You have your own personal movie theater right at home.
Rec Room
Another fun option for a second living room is to turn it into a rec room. This is perfect for hosting parties or game nights. You can even put a pool table in there and make it your own little casino. [2]
Library
If you love to read, then why not turn your second living room into a library? You can fill it with bookshelves and comfy chairs, and make it your own little reading nook.
Music Room
A lot of people have a second living room that they use as a music room. If you have a piano or another type of instrument, this is the perfect place to put it. You can also use this room to practice your singing or playing. This is also a great place to entertain guests who are interested in music.
Art Room
Another popular option for a second living room is to turn it into an art room. If you’re an artist, this is the perfect place to display your work and invite guests over to view it. You can also use this space to teach classes or workshops if you’re feeling ambitious.
Game Room
If you’re a gamer, you might want to convert your secondary living area into a gaming room.This is the perfect place to set up your gaming console and play with friends. You can also use this space to host LAN parties or other gaming events. Whatever you do, make sure you have plenty of seating and storage for all of your gaming equipment.
Podcast Room
Another great option for a second living room is to turn it into a podcast room. If you’re a podcaster, this is the perfect place to record your show. You can also use this space to host guests on your show or even just to listen to podcasts. Make sure you have a good microphone and sound system so that your recordings sound professional.
Exercise Room
If you’re looking for a way to stay fit and healthy, then you might want to consider turning your second living room into an exercise room. This is the perfect place to set up your workout equipment and get in some cardio. You can also use this space to do yoga or stretch. Whatever you do, make sure you have plenty of space so that you can move around freely. [3]
Home Office
If you work from home, then you might want to consider turning your second living room into a home office. This is the perfect place to set up your desk and get some work done. You can also use this space to meet with clients or customers.
Personal Bar
Do you like to entertain guests? If so, then you might want to consider setting up a personal bar in your second living room. This is the perfect place to store your liquor and mix drinks for your guests. You can also use this space to host wine tastings or other events. Make sure you have plenty of glasses and barware on hand so that you’re prepared for anything.
Make a Combination Room
If you can’t decide what to do with your second living room, then you might want to consider making it a combination room. This is the perfect place to set up a home theater system and watch movies. You can also use this space for gaming, working out, or just relaxing.
Nursery
If you have a child or are expecting one, consider converting your second living room into a nursery. This is the perfect place to set up the crib and all of the other essentials. You can also use this space to play with your child or put them down for a nap. Make sure you have plenty of toys and books on hand so that your child can stay entertained.
Hobby Room
You can use your second living room as a space to pursue hobbies. Whether you enjoy crafting, reading, playing video games or working on cars, this is the perfect spot for you to set up shop. You can create an inviting and comfortable space that reflects your interests and personality without breaking the bank.
Lounge Space
If you plan on using it as a lounge space, for example, you’ll need comfortable seating and maybe a coffee table. You might also want to add some shelving for books or other items.
Entertainment Room
This can be a great way to save money, as you won’t have to purchase expensive furniture or decorations. Instead, you can focus on creating a space that’s comfortable and inviting for friends and family.
Walk-In Closet
Do you have a lot of clothes or other items that you need to store? This is the perfect place to hang your clothes and keep your shoes organized. You can also use this space to store other items such as luggage or boxes. [4]
Spare Bedroom
Many people have an extra room in their homes that goes mostly unused. If you frequently have guests stay with you, why not turn this space into a bedroom for them? This is the perfect place to set up a bed and dresser for them. You can also use this space to put away any extra blankets or pillows that you might have.
Man Cave
Do you like having your own space to watch TV or play video games? If you want to use the space, there are several changes you may make. You can turn your second living room into a man cave if so inclined. This is the perfect place to set up a big screen TV and all of your other electronics. You can also use this space to put up posters or other decorations.
Additional Living Room
Do you have a lot of family or friends that come over often? If you have an extra living room, you might want to consider turning it into another one. This is the perfect place to set up a second couch and chairs for them to sit in. You can also use this space to host parties or other events. [5]
FAQ
What to do when your house has two living rooms?
If you’re like most people, you probably don’t know what to do with your second living room. After all, most houses only have one living room and that’s usually where the family congregates to watch TV, play games, or just relax. But if you have a second living room in your home, it can be a bit of a challenge to figure out how to use it. Here are a few ideas for what to do with your second living room:
- Use it as a formal dining room: If you don’t have a separate dining room, your second living room can easily double as one. Just set up a large table and chairs and voila! You now have a place to entertain guests for dinner parties or holiday meals.
- Make it a home office: If you work from home, your second living room can be the perfect place to set up a home office. Just add a desk, chair, and some shelves for storage and you’re good to go.
- Turn it into a playroom for the kids: If you have young children, your second living room can be the perfect place to set up a playroom. Just add some toys, puzzles, and games and let the fun begin!
- Use it as a guest bedroom: If you don’t have an extra bedroom in your house, your second living room can easily be converted into one. Just add a bed, dresser, and nightstand and you’re all set.
- Make it a home gym: If you’re looking for a place to workout at home, your second living room can be the perfect spot. Just add some exercise equipment and you’re ready to go.
- Use it as a home theater: If you love movies, your second living room can be the perfect place to set up a home theater. Just add a TV, DVD player, and surround sound system and you’re all set.
What do you call the second living room in a house?
Is it a sitting room, family room or den? Maybe you call it the TV room because that’s what everyone uses it for. No matter what you call this space in your house, chances are you’re not sure what to do with it.
If you have a second living room and don’t know how to furnish or decorate it, here are some tips on how to make the most of this space without breaking the bank.
First, consider what you want to use the room for. Do you want it to be a place where the family can gather to watch TV or play games? Or do you want it to be more of a formal living room where you can entertain guests? Once you decide how you want to use the room, it will be easier to figure out what furniture and décor you need.
Second, don’t feel like you have to buy all new furniture for the second living room. You can probably use some pieces from other rooms in your house. For example, if you’re using the room as a TV room, you might already have a couch and coffee table that you can move in. Or if you’re turning it into a formal living room, you might be able to use your dining room table as a coffee table. Get creative with what you already have before buying anything new.
Third, when it comes to decorating, less is more. You don’t want the second living room to look cluttered or too busy.
For example, if you want a cozy and inviting space, you might add a throw blanket and some pillows to the couch. Or if you’re going for a more modern look, you might hang some abstract art on the walls.
Finally, don’t forget about the little details. The finishing touches are what will really make the second living room feel like home. Add some candles, plants or family photos to personalize the space. And don’t forget to include some storage options so you can keep the room looking neat and tidy.
Why do some homes have two living rooms?
The answer is both practical and historical. Practical because today many families want a living room that can be used for formal entertaining, like hosting holiday parties or throwing a baby shower, as well as a more relaxed space for day-to-day use. Historically, the second living room was originally designed as an extension of the front parlor—a public space where guests were received—and separated from the family’s private quarters by a set of double doors. If you have a second living room in your home, you may be wondering what to do with it.
Are living rooms still relevant?
This is a common question that people ask when they are considering whether or not to furnish and decorate their second living room. The answer is a resounding yes! Living rooms are still very relevant, especially in today’s world where we are constantly entertaining guests and hosting parties. A second living room can be a great place to relax and unwind after a long day or to entertain guests on a budget.
What rooms should every house have?
The answer to this question may vary depending on who you ask but most people would agree that every house should have a living room, a kitchen, and a bedroom.
Useful Video: 10 Small Upstairs Living Room Ideas
Conclusion
So there you have it, some tips on how to furnish and decorate your second living room on a budget. By following these tips, you should be able to create a comfortable and stylish space that you and your family can enjoy for many years to come.
Thanks for reading!
References
- https://www.sheahomes.com/blog/sh-what-is-a-flex-room-how-to-customize-your-home-to-your-lifestyle/
- https://www.extraspace.com/blog/home-organization/diy-projects/bonus-room-design-ideas/
- https://www.houzz.com/discussions/4336223/second-living-room-what-do-people-use-for-floor-plan-help
- https://www.homestratosphere.com/formal-living-room-alternatives/
- https://undercoverarchitect.com/second-living-rooms/