**Definition and Usage**:
– The term “bonus room” originated in the United States, first appearing in The New York Times in 1991.
– Bonus rooms are spare rooms typically located on bedroom floors, often used as flex spaces for various functions like a den, television room, or guest room.
– They provide extra living space in a home, increasing property value and are popular features in modern home designs.
**Design Features**:
– Bonus rooms are commonly situated above garages and may include unique architectural elements.
– Design considerations include maximizing natural light, ensuring proper insulation and HVAC for comfort, and maintaining flexibility to accommodate different uses.
**Renovation Tips**:
– Renovating a bonus room can significantly add value to a home.
– Enhancements such as built-in storage, upgraded flooring and lighting, and fresh paint can enhance the space.
– Renovation costs vary based on the scope and materials used.
**Market Trends and Demand**:
– The demand for homes with bonus rooms is on the rise, with builders increasingly incorporating them into new constructions.
– Homebuyers prioritize flexible living spaces, viewing bonus rooms as versatile and valuable.
– Homes with bonus rooms tend to have higher resale values in the market.
**Origins and Etymology**:
– The term “bonus room” was coined as a solution to noisy teenagers and has evolved to describe these versatile living spaces.
– Bonus rooms have become a sought-after feature due to their flexibility and ability to cater to various needs.
A bonus room, flex room, multiuse room or spare room (though the latter often means an extra bedroom) is a room created by remodeling or adding an addition that does not meet local building code definitions for traditional rooms, or is designed for multiple possible uses. For example, codes will typically require that a bedroom have a window and a certain number of electrical outlets. Such a room might actually be intended for sleeping, but will be described as a "bonus room" in rental and sales listings.
Definition from ChatGPT:
Bonus room:
A bonus room is an extra room in a house that can be used for various purposes, such as a home office, playroom, guest room, or entertainment room. It is typically a flexible space that can be customized to suit the needs and preferences of the homeowner.