Making Space

Does Your Home Feel Empty? Reimagine it with a room makeover

Ahome is ever evolving. One day you might find the smallest residents of your household have grown up and moved out on their own. If your kids have grown and flown, there are two things you know for sure: You’re left with an inexplicable amount of grade school drawings and a room that serves no immediate purpose. While the sketches can be gifted back to their creator as impressionistic wall art, what to do with that free room isn’t always so clear.

If you’re feeling the urge to repurpose your kiddo’s unused room, you’re not the only one. A recent survey revealed that 71% of empty nesters made some kind of change to their kid’s bedroom once they moved out of the house. Have you always dreamed of having a craft room or maybe you’d love your very own workout space? Interior designer Robin Cole of Robin’s Nest Interiors says function is key when converting your adult child’s room. To help you brainstorm, Robin asks these questions: What’s your greatest need at this time? And if you don’t have a need — what have you always wanted?

Rebecca O’Toole created a themed guest room in her daughter’s old bedroom and included vintage photos of her grandfather, G.M. Johns, taken with the horses he trained in various race track winner’s circles.

When redesigning her grown children’s rooms, Rebecca O’Toole says inspiration came easy once a theme was established. After Rebecca’s middle daughter left the house, she knew she wanted a cozy sitting area to watch television. “I created a little den so I can have my space,” Rebecca says. Adding pieces with meaning, she repainted her grandmother’s vintage dresser, giving it a modern feel, and added pieces from her grandmother’s antique glass collection as well. “I did get a sleeper sofa that makes a bed so the grandkids can use it as a bedroom,” says Rebecca.

When Rebecca’s youngest daughter left the nest, she and her husband decided a guest room would be a valuable addition. That’s when Rebecca created a Kentucky-themed room for those guests unfamiliar with the area. “My grandfather was a racehorse trainer,” she explains, “so I used his winner circle photos in the room.” Those black and white photos became the catalyst for the black and white decor that runs throughout the room — complete with a tray of snacks for the weary traveler. “It just came together, “ she says.

While redecorating a room can bring a sense of excitement and newness, changing your child’s room can also bring up feelings of loss, so take your time. When you’re ready, Robin says to first imagine how this new space will function. Knowing your room’s purpose will narrow down all the possibilities. “The first step is to determine functionality and then try to think forward,” she adds. Planning ahead when redecorating can help your home support your family’s needs down the road. Then when you’re ready to reclaim your space, Robin says, “Celebrate the season of life you’re in.”

By Tonilyn Hornung | Photo by Melissa Donald

Today's Transitions | Spring 2023