Staying in has transformed from a necessity into a preferred luxury. While kitchens and living rooms often get the most attention during renovations, dedicating space specifically for play brings a unique energy to a home. You do not need a sprawling mansion to host the perfect game night (board games, pool, foosball, etc.).
A neglected corner, a spare bedroom, or even a section of the library can become a destination for entertainment. Creating a sophisticated game room requires balancing functionality with high-end design, proving that adult play spaces can look just as good as the rest of the house.
Here are five insights to help design a room that guests will never want to leave.
1. Set the Scene with Bold Wallpaper
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Walls act as the canvas for the entire room. A game room offers the perfect opportunity to take risks that might feel too overwhelming in a bedroom or kitchen. A playful, intricate pattern like a hedge maze design adds immediate character and whimsy.
It signals to anyone entering that this space serves a different purpose than the rest of the home. If papering the entire room feels too ambitious, apply it to the ceiling or inside the molding panels for a contained burst of energy.
2. Install a Statement Pendant Light
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Proper lighting defines the mood and utility of the space. Overhead recessed lighting often feels too clinical for a party atmosphere, while floor lamps might not cast enough light onto the center of the table.
A low-hanging pendant light or chandelier centered directly over the game table anchors the room and provides the necessary illumination for reading cards or strategizing over a board.
Aim for 30-36 inches of clearance so players can see each other across the table without a light fixture obstructing their view.
3. Ground the Space with a Mohair Rug
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Hardwood floors look beautiful, but they do little to dampen the sound of excited shouts or dropped pieces. A plush rug creates an acoustical buffer and adds a layer of tangible luxury.
Mohair is an excellent choice because of its durability and slight sheen, which elevates the aesthetic of the room instantly. Rotate the rug every six months to prevent uneven wear patterns from chair legs. Vacuum regularly with the beater bar turned off to protect the natural fibers.
4. Prioritize Comfort with Swivel Chairs
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Static dining chairs restrict movement and make it difficult to engage with people who are not sitting directly across the table. An upholstered swivel chair allows players to pivot effortlessly between the game board and the rest of the room. An octagonal shape hugs the body, offering support during long sessions of Monopoly or bridge.
Look for chairs with performance fabrics or darker velvets. These materials withstand spills and frequent use better than delicate linens or light cottons.
5. Choose a Game Table with Flair
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The table serves as the captain of the game room. While a standard dining table works, a dedicated game table brings an element of glamour. Designs featuring brass accents or interesting geometric bases act as functional art. A square table often works best for four players, keeping everyone equidistant from the center.
Use coasters religiously to protect any wood finish from condensation rings. If the table has brass elements, polish them occasionally with a microfiber cloth to maintain their shine.