Men get a cave. Why can’t women? You deserve a place to work, dream, create, and just “be.” Maybe you want to chill out once the kids are gone. Maybe you just need a place to relax and get your yoga on. Whatever your reason for wanting or needing a space that’s all your own, these six simple tips will transform that spare room into the perfect “mom” or “girl” cave in no time.
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Add a Personal Touch
This is your place—your area to get away from it all. Highlight your deepest and most personal values with items that are strictly for this space, and no other. You should make the place your sanctuary.
You could go all DIY if you want, but you don’t have to. If the room is mostly finished, it may not need much. Maybe all you need is a bookshelf and books, your favorite sewing machine and craft supplies, or a cozy reading area. Whatever you choose for this room, make it personal.
Get Organized
The Container Store is this amazing place where everything gets organized. It’s no secret that we love space—the more, the better. The problem is that once we’re done taking over the bathroom and the walk-in closet, we still seem to need more space. How many times have you opened your shoe drawer or closet and nearly drowned in an avalanche?
Your woman cave should be where any spillover goes and, in fact, you should try to move a lot of your stuff out of the hubby’s closet and into your new space. Use racks and closet inserts to dramatically increase the space of just about any storage space. From there, pegboards and racks that hang on the wall can provide you with a nearly endless amount of space for hats, shoes, dresses, jewelry, and pretty much anything else your little heart desires.
Hang Wallpaper
Does the spare room look a little drab? Spruce it up with wallpaper. If you get the “paste the wall” type, you save yourself a lot of time and frustration. Wallpaper is cheap, it can look amazing and if you buy vinyl it’ll last a really long time. It’s also pretty easy to change if you ever feel the need to mix things up or get sick of it.
Add a Desk
Desk space: Who doesn’t want more of that? The dining room table is fine for paying the bills, but it’s not enough for the things you really want to do, like answer emails, play on Pinterest, sew, finish that craft project that’s been collecting dust, read, or work on that fantasy novel you’ve been dreaming about.
Create a Spa-Like Environment
If you need a place to relax and unwind after a long week, create a spa-like environment. Consider installing a nice chandelier, a chaise lounge, and a fireplace (even if it’s just a faux one). Add some scented candles for a touch of aromatherapy and drapes that block sunlight when pulled closed. Create a reading corner with a built-in or freestanding bookshelf and fill it with your favorite books. If you’re a tech-nerd, maybe all you need is your Kindle, Nook, or iPad and a small table.
What is calming to one person may be different for another, and the possibilities are endless. Use your imagination and create the room of your dreams! The most important thing about creating this kind of environment is to make it as relaxing as possible.
Throw Some Pillows
Throw pillows are so versatile that they can replace the need for a couch or chair, if you have enough of them. Set down a blanket, or a bean bag chair, and just start piling the pillows on top of it or around it. Instant hangout corner.
At the end of the day, this will become one of your most treasured and favorite places. Here, you don’t have to listen to kids screaming. You can get away from the boys and their shenanigans. You can center your soul and just enjoy it.
Marie Lewis is an interior decorator who likes to share her insights online. You can read her articles on many home improvement and DIY websites. Get home décor supplies at Graham & Brown, along with more inspiration and advice.
