Tips for Turning a Sunroom into a Bedroom

For many homeowners, there often comes a time when rooms built for one purpose, are needed for another altogether different purpose.  If sleeping arrangements have become tight, it may be time to convert the sunroom into a bedroom.  A sunroom that has been well-built and is in good repair will be easy to transform into a bedroom with the simple tips below.

Evaluate the Space

Begin the remodel by evaluating the existing sunroom.  Some additions are built to flow from one space to another.  If the sunroom has no existing doors, or glass sliding doors, between itself and another room, solid doors will need to be added for privacy.  Privacy is also a factor when thinking about the windows in the sunroom.  If the glass is thick and provides excellent insulation in the winter, it may be fine not to add additional walls.  Another factor to consider is if there is an outside entrance that needs to be blocked for safety or security reasons.  It may be fine when the room functions as a sunroom, but as a sleeping area it may make the sleeping occupant feel too vulnerable.  Talk with the person who will be sleeping in the space to find out what his or her concerns are about the room, as well.

Through the Glass

Thick, well-insulated glass usually comprises at least three-quarters of the walls and ceiling of a sunroom.  This is great when the room's only sleeping occupant is a house plant, but as a bedroom, additional privacy is a must have.  There are a few options for blocking the view from passersby.  Black window tinted film can be applied to the glass on the ceiling and on many of the wall glass panels themselves.  This film can be reflective or simply opaque, which will prevent anyone from seeing inside.  Another option is to install light-blocking blinds.  This is a great idea if the view from the room is pleasant and rather private, as it gives the occupant the ability to choose which windows are open.  Curtains can also be added to the windows to block the light and view from the outside.  Think about installing a double rod system, where a lighter, sheer curtain is the first line of defense from curious eyes and a heavy, opaque curtain is able to be closed on top of it.  This also allows the bedroom's owner to choose how much light is being let into the room.  Choose the style that works best for the room's occupant and the set-up of the space.

The Basics

When turning the sunroom into a bedroom keep some basic things in mind.  There may not be enough electrical outlets, so an electrician may need to be hired to install a few more, as well as, any overhead or recessed lighting desired.  The flooring may also need to be replaced during the transformation.  Many sunrooms have indoor/outdoor carpet or tile floors.  Adding soft, warm, plush carpeting to the room will make it feel more like a bedroom.  Furniture placement, privacy and the room's decor are also factors that should be considered. A trip to the local wall art store to find accents to fit the occupants taste, from metal wall art fish to contemporary accents, can make the converted sunroom feel more like a real bedroom.   

Turning a sunroom into a bedroom is a great way to create a space for an in-law or parent who may no longer be able to live on their own, frequent guests or a teen who needs his own space.  Since privacy is the main hurdle during the transition, be sure to explore every option for making the sunroom-gone-bedroom the most relaxing and private room in the house.  The room's new occupant will be grateful for the effort.