Two Living Rooms? Second Living Room Ideas to Use Extra Space

Do you have two living rooms in your home? While two living spaces are more common with certain architectural styles or in older homes, it’s not always clear how best to decorate them or distinguish their functions. If you’re unsure what to do with a second living room that remains empty most of the year, it's time to come up with some ideas to put that empty room to use!

Read on for what to do with a second living room that’s not being used.

Mapping Out What to Do With a Second Living Room

The best way to know what to do with a second living room is to ask yourself some questions to help determine what function and use make sense for your home and what is feasible. Answering these questions can help you figure out exactly what you are looking for and give you a clear vision to work with. 

For example, if you're converting this room into a playroom for your children, then you want to look for easily replaceable furniture that is spill-proof, and fill it with plenty of entertainment options for all ages.

Here are some questions to ask yourself if you don't know what to do with a second living room:

• What's your budget for converting this second living room?

• Do you want this room to be a communal area or a private space?

• Do you plan on using natural light, floor lamps, or ceiling fixtures to light the space?

• What is the primary purpose of this space: relaxing, entertaining, or home office?

5 Ideas for a Second Living Room

The most common type of use for the second living room is turning it into a “formal” room for guests and keeping living room #1 as the family room. Not everyone needs (or desires) a space like this and would rather make something unique to their lifestyle. 

Luckily, there are several second living room ideas that you can use to transform your space into your ideal room, no matter what your budget or desired use is. Once you determine the answers to the questions above, it’s time to get inspired and start planning what exactly you’ll be creating.

Some second living room ideas include:

• Hangout Space 

• Dining Area

• Game Room 

• Reading/Conversation Nook

• Home Office

If you do not need another living room, you can even modify some of these ideas to turn it into a completely different room.

1. How to Turn Your Second Living Room into a Hangout Space

If you don't have a use for a second living room, then consider turning it into the ultimate hangout space. Hangout spaces are great if you have kids that are older, or if you frequently have friends over. Think about the things you and your friends like to do, and fill the room with fun items that will make people want to spend more time in your home.

Scatter comfortable seating around the room to encourage conversation, such as bean bag chairs, zero gravity recliners, or oversized cushions to sit on. Provide plenty of entertainment options that promote conversation such, as video games, a pool table, or board games. Adding a mini-fridge or mini-bar is also a fun touch to keep people hanging around longer.

2. Second Living Room Ideas for Converting it into a Dining Area

Having two second living rooms can be extremely convenient, but if you lack a room such as a dining area, then you may want to convert your second living room into a space that you need. 

A dining area is helpful when you have a large group of people over, especially during the holidays. Turn a second living room into a dining area by investing in a large dining table, comfortable dining chairs, and placing pictures and plants tastefully around the room. If you have special dinnerware that you'd like to use in the dining area, then a china cabinet is a great way to showcase your favorite pieces and keep everything organized.

3. Game Room Ideas for A Second Living Room Option

If you have younger children, then you may not need two living rooms and could benefit from a game room instead. Some simple gaming room setup and furniture ideas include a wide screen TV, storage cabinet for your gaming equipment, and a Svago table that gives you a place to put your drinks. Adding colored or neon lights puts a playful spin on the room, and you can decorate it with fun pictures or posters.

4. Second Living Room Turned Reading/Conversation Nook

An extra room can double as a place to read and be alone, or hold a private conversation with someone. Placing comfortable seating such as the Motion Mastery chair near large windows gives you a great place to read by natural light. 

Building a home library with bookshelves filled with several varieties of books provides plenty of options, while adding a small basket or box for phones can lend to technology-free conversations.

5. Creating a Home Office Out of Your Second Living Room

Working from home can be helpful, but it often requires a home office where you can do your work in peace. Focus on seating that makes you feel comfortable yet helps with your posture. Make sure to choose a desk that works well for you, and think about investing in a stand-up desk to keep from being sedentary. 

Furniture Ideas for a Second Living Room

Whether you plan on keeping your second living room or converting it into a different space, there are plenty of ideas that apply to most spaces when decorating with furniture. Sectionals are great to take up space in a larger room where loveseats and recliners are perfect seating for small spaces.You can also play with furniture ideas to create a faux entryway, maximize space, or add emphasis to a room.

Furniture ideas for a second living room can include:

• A daybed or Murphy bed.

• A photo or artwork to be the focal point.

• A storage unit to hide any misplaced games, toys, items, etc.

• Small side tables to create the illusion of an entryway.

How to Make Your Second Living Room Your Favorite Space in the House

The best tip for second living room ideas is to think of the purpose of the room first and build around it. What is your house lacking that you need? The answer may be in the form of an art room, library, or bonus room, so ask yourself and your family what they think is missing. 

By listening to yourself and your family, you can convert your second living room into the room of your dreams.