Job roles can become less demanding as our careers advance. The kids, once off to college, eventually return less often. Is it time to call a realtor and list the family home?

Maybe not. Many of today’s empty nesters prefer “self” to “sell.” It’s all part of a trend some sources call fun-sizing. What is fun-sizing? Today, we’re looking into this alternative to downsizing that prioritizes celebrating life’s changes instead of cutting back. 

What is fun-sizing?

Downsizing has people sell their property and move into smaller places with less space and upkeep. Fun-sizing is where a homeowner keeps their property but remodels it to be more attuned to their interests and habits.

Tailoring homes to a changing lifestyle can welcome more recreation and relaxation on top of making work and daily routines more efficient. It also provides an opportunity to invest in those personal dream projects that weren’t a priority earlier in life. 

Why do people fun-size their homes?

Retirees, seniors, empty nesters, grandparents–this is how you’d describe most fun-sizers. When mature populations decide to age in place instead of moving, they like to refresh their homes to accommodate purposes other than raising a family. 

However, fun-sizing can also be a fresh start after a divorce, a big move, a career change, or simply for personal development and satisfaction. 

Architectural Digest notes that fun-sizing isn’t always about eliminating family spaces. Many stay prepared for multigenerational living. Rather, it’s about adding amenities one might aspire to have in a vacation home. 

Ideas and inspiration for fun-sizing your property

Home gyms and spa-like bathrooms are just the beginning. Here are more ways people are fun-sizing their homes for a better quality of life.

Supporting career shifts with home offices.

A personal study or office is ideal for many fun-sizers with increased chances to work from home. Custom storage and high-value architectural details like built-in bookcases are common alterations here. Don’t forget a few fresh coats of paint. 

Making space for interests and passions.

Guest room gathering dust? Fun-sizing lets us get more use out of the space we want to keep. Convert less-used rooms into an art studio, crafting room, reading room, or anything else you’d like to enjoy more of. 

Finishing the basement.

Entertain guests, invite extended family for an extended stay, or rent it out to offset the cost of fun-sizing! Finishing the basement is a logical step when we want to get the most value out of our homes. 

Upgrading the kitchen.

Now that there are no teens tearing through, fun-sizers can update kitchens to match their new lifestyles. Spending more time baking, honing knife skills, or hosting others calls for new stone countertops, more efficient storage, and higher-end appliances.

Springing for bolder, more dramatic interiors.

An overwhelming number of people put the fun in fun-sizing by making the place look more fun. Maximalist décor, bright wallpaper, unexpected colors, and quirky collections on display bring everyday joy. 

Creating a playroom.

Instead of giving up the family home, seniors are increasingly deciding to make it welcoming for new generations. Many start by converting the kids’ former bedrooms into a new play palace for grandkids. Adding durable flooring, custom storage, and multifunctional furniture gives old rooms a new lease on life. 

Building the walk-in wardrobe of dreams.

With the house all to yourself, there’s no reason NOT to turn that extra room into a full-on luxury closet. Fun-sizers appreciate designing their own over purchasing prefab systems. This way, they’re getting just the right look and configuration for their wardrobes. 

Let the fun begin at The Designery

From basement flooring and built-ins to bespoke storage and premier countertops, The Designery is the prime place to begin fun-sizing your home. Our client, Heather, recently had her closet and office space upgraded: 

“We’re so thrilled with how our project turned out. We were able to customize the area for our needs - more closet space and two desk areas for remote working. The finished product is gorgeous and high quality.”

Schedule a complimentary consultation with a professional designer near you.