Chances are, when your kids move out, you’re feeling a whole mix of emotions. Empty nest syndrome is very real, and you might need some time after your kids have moved out before you feel ready to recreate your space.

That said, once you’ve given yourself a period to process and you’re ready to remodel your nest, you’ll find that there are so many ways to use your newfound space, time, and independence to reinvent your home!

Getting Rid of Items You No Longer Need

This is the first step. Before you think about big remodeling projects, it’s helpful to get rid of any clutter. Kids moving out gives you the perfect opportunity to get rid of all the unnecessary stuff that has been piling up over the years in the garage, attic, and other nooks and crannies of your home.

While there may be certain sentimental items you want to hold onto, emptying out unnecessary stuff will help you see your spaces in a new light. This can provide the inspiration you need to recreate your home to meet your new needs, tastes, and priorities.

Replacing Kids’ Bedrooms

Especially if your kids are moving to a new city, they may need a place to stay when they come home to visit, and they might be more likely to do so if they’re able to stay with you. However, you may only need to keep one guest bedroom, and remodel any remaining bedrooms to be hobby rooms and personal spaces.

Even if you do opt to keep your kids’ bedrooms, that doesn’t mean you have to leave them exactly the way your children left them. This is your opportunity to recreate these rooms to fit your needs and design tastes.

If you have the space and budget, you might even want to create a guest suite for when kids or other guests visit!

Basements and large attic spaces are ideal for guest suites, since they offer privacy for your guests and enough space to include a bathroom. But any house with several bedrooms and a flexible layout should be able to accommodate a guest suite.

Letting Your Creativity Shine

The most important thing to consider when reimagining and remodeling your empty nest is that it is your space, and you can truly let your inspiration and preferences guide you. For example, have you always wanted a craft and sewing room? A bar and game room? A home gym? A home office? Now is the time to turn these dreams into a reality.

Although some people are looking to downsize and simplify their lives when their kids move out, if you want extra space for your hobbies and interests, and lots of room for your kids (and maybe even grandkids) to come visit, you might even consider a home addition.

Whether you’re simply making a few changes to your kids’ newly empty bedrooms, or you’re planning a full-scale home remodel, let your creativity lead you. Now is the perfect time to think about new color schemes, materials, designs, and decor that will make your space feel like it is truly yours.

Are you ready to reinvent your empty nest?

We can help! Our team at Square Deal Remodeling is experienced, knowledgeable, and dedicated to turning your vision into a reality. We want to help you create the space of your dreams, within the constraints of your schedule and budget. Whether your project is big or small, we’re ready to help you design and build the perfect new space!

Have questions about your project? Call us today at (503) 254-4156 or get in touch with us online.