The box room: what is it and how can you make the most of it?

The box room can often be seen as the least desirable room in the house. Many households choose to transform the space into an office, a walk in wardrobe or a child’s play area.

However, for large families, the extra room can be a huge benefit, meaning that siblings don’t have to double up and share a bedroom, leading to a much more peaceful environment as the kids get older.

Research shows adding another bedroom to your house can add 10% to the value of your home. There are a number of ways to ensure the box room is every bit as fantastic as the other bedrooms in the house, and it doesn’t get left behind.

Jonathan Warren, director at online bed specialist, Time 4 Sleep, shares his top tips on how to make the most of the box room.

It’s often the youngest child who ends up in the small room, so investing in a good quality children’s storage bed can be the perfect solution to keep things neat and organised. Storage beds are a great way to hide toys and other objects, so they’re out of sight and tidy.

In addition, the beds can also be a great way for children to have fun; using the frame to build a den or play hide and seek with their friends.

Homework is an important part of school life for children, and having a space to sit down and get on with it productively, is vital. A fold up desk is a versatile piece of equipment, and a great way to utilise the space in a box room.

There may not be much floor space in a smaller room, so being savvy when it comes to storing your belongings will make a difference in the long run. Choose a wall mounted TV, think about shelving on the walls, and build high cupboards that are adaptable.

There are so many ways to make a space seem bigger than it is, and this is key when it comes to a box room. Stay away from dark colours on the walls, and instead choose neutral, or pastel tones that will make the space appear bigger.

Aaron Money, senior surveyor at The Market Design & Build, added: “Having carried out a multitude of extensions, loft conversions and new builds, we are always faced with the challenges of maximising all the living space.

“We have found the most effective way to enhance the box room is to include large windows, use light paint colour tones, and incorporate wall hung radiators, which are located in unusable sections of the room.

“Spot lights also ensure the room remains as clear as possible, and a pocket door system eliminates any unnecessary obstructions of a conventional door.”