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Let the Show Begin A media or movie room can be a more cost-effective approach to the high-end home theater trend. Permanent features such as state-of-the-art equipment and stadium seating can be costly, but that’s nothing a little creativity can’t fix. Slipcovered chairs provide just as much comfort as leather for a fraction of the price. Flat-screen TVs are more affordable, and streaming your videos means less time spent tracking down DVDs. Accent the space with classic movie posters and let red curtains flank the TV to mimic a movie theater.

Creation Station A craft room can serve more than one purpose. With the proper allotment of storage, seating, and surface space, it can be the perfect setup for scrapbooking one minute and gift wrapping the next. Children’s art projects can be intertwined with a variety of DIY projects, such as decorating and filling picture frames. Cover the walls with cork for a rotating gallery of inspiring images. Purchase desk accessories in your favorite colors that will encourage you to finish the task at hand. Several work stations allow one person to be sewing a quilt in the corner while another fills a photo album with keepsakes.

The Next Chapter Even if you prefer an e-reader, there is nothing like an old-fashioned library. Kick up the cozy quotient with built-in bookshelves and leather chairs. Proper lighting is essential in this type of environment. Share your collection with family and friends by making yours a lending library. You might even go one step further by making this a regular setting for a book club, wine tasting, or any other intimate gathering. Display your books in a variety of ways, including stacks and easels on tabletops.

Game On Whether you play billiards, darts, air hockey, or a little of everything, a game room is a great place to hang out. Make sure you take the proper measurements before investing in any sizable equipment. Remember, this type of space doesn’t have to be in the basement; any spare room will do if it can accommodate the games you choose. Display vintage billiard balls in a bowl and hang game boards along the wall for an eye-catching collage.

Theme Park It doesn’t take much space to dedicate a theme to your favorite destination. Be it Paris or Morocco, there’s a location to suit every taste. A Parisian powder room can be filled with travel photos, while a ceiling in a sunroom takes an exotic turn when covered in rich and vivid fabrics. A Western aesthetic might remind you of a trip you took to Texas; something as simple as a pair of cowboy boots lends color and texture to the room. Pay homage to the ocean by establishing a nautical theme with an assortment of maps.

Whatever you decide, keep in mind that our lifestyles are bound to change over time. That’s the beauty of a theme or hobby room. It can provide a cherished refuge that reflects your current interests, and it can easily be tweaked to suit future pursuits as the need arises. Written by Jeanine Matlow.

To get the biggest bang for your buck, consider a multipurpose space that can accommodate the favorite pastimes of more than one person.

Don’t feel the need to do everything right away. For instance, a game room can develop over time to fit your budget.

Make sure you incorporate enough storage to support your needs. A media room will need cabinets for equipment, while a library requires sturdy shelving for books.

Try to avoid anything too trendy or you might soon tire of your special getaway. Instead of bold paint colors, opt for bright accent pieces.

Some hobbies are messier than others, such as art and craft projects. In this case, select a space that allows you to hide everything behind closed doors.