Would an ability to see into the future change any of the decisions you make today?
For most of us the answer is a resounding, “YES”—and if not, it’s at least a strong, “PROBABLY.”
Because we typically plan to live in a custom-built home for a good chunk of time, it would be great if we could get a glimpse into what our tastes and needs will be 10, 15, and 20 years down the road.
Having a flex space included—right from the beginning—not only increases the value of your home but could save you from a forced move or complicated remodel, years from now, as life scenarios change.
Here are 9 great uses of a flex space—depending on the phase your family is in—giving you some compelling reasons to include it in your plans.
1) In-Law Suite
If you think you’ve noticed more multi-generational families living together in the last 20 years, you’d be right.
Thanks to several factors such as:
- Longer life expectancy
- The housing crisis
- Effects of the recession
- Higher costs of living
- Young moms having to go into the workforce before kids are in school
older adults are moving in with their children—to help or to BE helped.
An in-law suite can be either a stand-alone dwelling on your property or can be an extra area off of a garage or the home that has a private entrance.
Ideally, it has a separate small kitchen or kitchenette for more independence, and it can range from approximately 600-1500 square feet.
2) Apartment For an Older Child
Similar to the upsurge in parents moving in with their kids, many adult children are moving back home after college, or never moving out at all. In fact, according to the Pew Research Center, 2016 was the first time that living with parents edged out other living arrangements for those aged 18-34.
The same space that could be used as an in-law suite makes having adult children back at home a smooth transition.
3) Play Room For Younger Children
Your flex space might be what many refer to as a bonus room. It’s often a bit larger than a standard bedroom and may or may not have a closet.
Young families appreciate a space that is all-about-the-kids. Toys, games, and media can be kept in one safe place, and when it’s a mess the door can be shut, making it easier to keep the rest of the house clean and presentable.
4) Entertainment Room
As children get older, it’s a plus to be the “cool house.”
A bonus room that was once littered with toys can become the new space where a bunch of teens can hang out and play pool or ping pong while listening to their music.
Of course, this is a great space to entertain guests of all ages and doesn’t have to be relegated to just the kids.
A small bar area can be included if it’s going to be used for adult gatherings.
5) Home Office
A trend that has impacted what many families want or need in their home is the increase of remote work. More and more companies are allowing employees to do part or all of their work from home.
For the sake of productivity, it’s essential to have a designated office space. This can be a smaller room—depending on the work you do. Obviously, you want space for a desk, computer, printer, storage, etc.
A nice touch would be for the area to have a separate entrance—in case you have others visiting your office—and lots of natural light makes for an inspiring environment.
6) Theater Room
Another great family-gathering place is a home theater room. This area can serve families at all stages and creates another venue for entertaining guests.
Many families choose to equip these with actual theater seats, a small kitchenette, sound-proof walls, and an upgraded surround-sound system.
7) Musical Instrument Room
Any parent that’s had a son or daughter take up the drums or the saxophone has wished for an extra room away from the main areas of the home. A place to practice that creates minimal disruption to the rest of the family becomes a priceless gift.
The same options of sound-proofing that can take place in a theater room are available for a music room if you know this will be a long-term venture.
8) Home Gym
Some families find that having a home-gym makes it easier to get workouts in. Whether it’s during a child’s nap or later in the evening when everyone is settling down, it’s nice to have a room that can hold a treadmill, some weights, or other favorite workout equipment.
Putting down rubber flooring in this room protects it from damage that could occur if dumbbells are dropped and may cut down slightly on sound.
9) Guest Bedroom
Finally, at the very least it’s convenient to have a guest bedroom. An area that is always ready—and clean—for drop-in guests or extended stays helps avoid the stress of not being prepared.
If you are able to give this room a separate bathroom, it adds a nice element of privacy for your guests.
Value For the Long Haul
If you’ve lived in a home for any length of time, you’ve probably wished for one of these areas.
Do you have any to add to our list?
The Westmont team understands the changing needs of families and loves coming alongside to make your dream home not only functional but the place you and your family WANT to hang out in for years to come.
