Ah, the game room: the sanctuary of competitive banter, nail-biting victories, and more than a few “friendly” arguments over who sunk the eight ball too early.

If your game room currently looks more like a forgotten storage cupboard than a gamer’s paradise, fear not! With a little imagination, some elbow grease, and the centrepiece of all epic game rooms – the pool table – you can create a space that’ll have everyone queuing up to play.

Let’s dive into some inspiring transformations and ideas to turn your humdrum room into a crowd-pleasing haven.

Before: The Forgotten Corner

Picture this: a dusty corner with mismatched furniture, a box of old board games you haven’t opened since the 90s, and lighting so dim it’s more suitable for a horror film than a friendly game night. Sound familiar? Many game rooms start out as neglected spaces with unrealised potential. The walls may even have a few mystery stains (who spilt what and when?). But with some creativity and strategic upgrades, you can turn that dreary dungeon into a dazzling den.

After: The Ultimate Game Room

Now imagine this: a sleek, inviting space with a show-stopping pool table as the centrepiece. It’s not just a game; it’s a work of art. The transformation begins here, folks. And if you’re wondering where to find the perfect pool table to start your makeover journey, you can search for your new one at Home Games Room, The UK’s top pool table supplier that always hits the corner pocket. Trust me, they’ve got everything from contemporary designs to vintage classics – like finding the James Bond of pool tables. A pool table instantly elevates the room from “meh” to “wow,” giving it that centrepiece-worthy glamour.

What Else Can You Add?

While the pool table is undoubtedly the star of the show, every blockbuster needs a solid supporting cast. Here are some ideas to elevate your game room further:

• Darts and Boards: Classic, compact, and a great way to test your aim (and patience). Add a dartboard cabinet for a polished look that can double as wall art.
• Arcade Machines: For those moments when you’re feeling nostalgic and want to button-mash your way to glory. Pac-Man, anyone? Or maybe some Street Fighter to relive those childhood rivalries.
• Comfy Seating: From bar stools to plush sofas, create spaces for both players and spectators. Bonus points if the furniture has secret compartments for storing snacks! Imagine your guests sinking into a beanbag after an intense match, reaching into a hidden compartment, and pulling out a bag of crisps – now that’s game room luxury.
• Custom Lighting: Say goodbye to that overhead lightbulb and hello to stylish pendant lights or LED strips. A little mood lighting goes a long way in setting the vibe. You could even install a spotlight over the pool table for that dramatic tournament feel.
• Themed Decor: Whether you’re into retro vibes, sports mania, or modern minimalism, decor can pull the whole look together. Wall art, rugs, and themed memorabilia can give your space character. Fancy some neon signs? How about a wall-mounted scoreboard to track your epic battles?
• Entertainment System: A small TV or projector can complement the vibe, letting you stream music, display the latest sports game, or even host a film night when you’re taking a break from the action.

Finishing Touches

Every game room deserves a little extra personality. Maybe it’s a mini-fridge stocked with cold drinks (hydration, after all, is key for high-stakes matches). Or perhaps it’s a trophy shelf to showcase your many (or few, we won’t judge) victories. A popcorn machine in the corner? Yes, please. For added flair, consider adding a bar area for your beverages – complete with a chalkboard menu where you can write witty drink names like “Cue Shot Martini.”

And if you’re ready to create your ultimate gaming sanctuary, look no further than Home Games Room for all your needs. From pool tables to everything else that screams “game night goals,” they’ve got you covered. Just don’t blame us if your friends start showing up uninvited! In fact, you might need to set a rota for who gets to host game night each week.

Bonus Tips for Maintaining Your Game Room

Creating a game room is only the beginning. You need to maintain and organise to keep it a great space for years to come. Here are some additional tips to keep your game room in top shape:

1. Keep It Clean

A clean game room looks better, and everything is easy to find when it’s time to play.

• Zone It: Divide the room into areas for different activities, such as a pool table zone, a tabletop gaming area, and a relaxation area. This keeps the space functional and not chaotic.
• Smart Storage: Install hooks or racks for cues and dartboards, shelves for board games and labelled bins or trays for smaller game pieces. A cabinet can house card games, dice and controllers so nothing gets lost.
• Cable Management: If you have gaming consoles or electronics, use cable ties and organisers to keep wires tidy and out of the way.

2. Love Your Gear

Your gaming gear is the heart of the room—keep it in top shape, and the fun never stops.

• Pool Table: Brush the felt regularly to remove dust and debris, and cover when not in use to prevent spills and sunlight. Level the table every now and then to keep the gameplay smooth.
• Board Game: Store board games upright to prevent warping and game pieces in zippered bags or small containers so you don’t lose them.
• Electronic Equipment: Clean controllers, screens and consoles with microfiber cloths and check for software updates every now and then to keep it running smooth.

3. Make It Cozy

Your game room should be a place people want to hang out and chill.

• Lighting: Use layered lighting—bright overhead lights for high-intensity matches and softer lamps or LED strips for chill time.
• Comfortable Seating: There are plenty of seating options like bean bags, recliners, or barstools, depending on the activity zones. Add cushions or throws for extra comfort.
• Decor: Add personal touches like framed posters of old games, neon signs or themed accents to give the room some personality.

4. Get Feedback

Your game room is a shared space so make it a team effort!

• Ask for Input: Get ideas from family and friends on what they’d like to see in the room. A karaoke machine? A mini fridge with snacks? Their ideas might just give you the perfect idea.
• Rotate: Keep the space fresh by rotating activities or decor every now and then. Introduce a new board game or theme every few months to keep it exciting.

5. Clean

A clean game room is a happy game room!

• Weekly Maintenance: Set aside time each week to put everything back in its place, wipe down surfaces and vacuum or sweep the floors.
• Snack Cop: If food and drinks are allowed, provide coasters and snack trays to minimise mess. Have a small trash can nearby to encourage people to dispose of it properly.
• Air It Out: If the room gets heavy, open a window or get an air purifier to keep the air fresh and nice.

6. Future Proof

As you grow so can your game room!

• Save for Upgrades: Start a small fund for future additions like an arcade machine, sound system upgrade or more board games.
• Stay Inspired: Keep an eye on gaming and entertainment trends and visit local game cafes or lounges for ideas.

Wrap-Up

Transforming a game room is more than just a DIY project – it’s a labour of love (and a bit of fun, too). Whether you’re sinking the eight ball in style or battling it out in a retro arcade game, the right setup can turn any night into a memorable one. So go ahead, make that before-and-after magic happen. Your inner gamer will thank you! And who knows? You might even discover that you’ve been a pool shark in the making all along.

Read more:
Game Room Makeovers: Before and After