A Game Room (aka billiard room) is one of the most fantastic things you can do with a spare room in your house. It’s a place where you can spend quality time with your friends or family and connect with them while having fun. It can also be a place where you can lock yourself and just rest and relax, a little utopia to recharge your batteries and get ready for the days ahead.
The truth is, a good billiard room can be anything you want it to be. And while there isn’t a good or bad way to build it, there certainly are some good practices AND things you should avoid.
Following these few rules will help you build a game room that will quickly become the most popular room in your house. Following is a list of the most important principles that will show you how to build your perfect game room. Starting with the most important one:
Pick the right room
Before you commit to buying and placing equipment, you should start with a solid plan. Draw a layout of your room. There’s nothing worse than underestimating the amount of space you need. Poking walls with your cue and having to maneuver around spectators to get to your shot can quickly ruin the game. Generally, you need at least 5 feet (1,5 meters) around the table to freely navigate your cue around the table. Add to that at least a 7-foot table (It could be more depending on your table), and you’re looking at at least 13 feet of width.
On top of that, you might also want to consider the spectators; comfort (or lack of it) and other non-playing members of your family. Things quickly add up and get confusing, making mistakes very likely to happen. That’s why I highly recommend you to plan it all on paper. Once you’ve finished planning and preparing the room’s layout, it’s time to roll the sleeves and get to work. Out of all the technical details…
Lighting is the most important
Photography is called “painting with light.” The same concept applies to architecture and indoor design — exactly what you’re doing now! The golden hue of the sunset can add a mood to the picture and make it unique. The right lighting can have the same effect on your billiard room. If you haven’t yet decided on the style or theme you’re going after, now is the time to start thinking about it. No matter what you choose, you’ll want to focus most of the light (and attention) on the table — the star of your game room.
If you don’t know yet what your game room will look like, the Black Leather Metal Lights can be your go-to. It’s a versatile piece that looks great in any setting. If you have a nice collection of accessories you’re planning to show off (As you should!), a nice complementing wall light will do them justice. We’re making progress. Nicely illuminated, your billiard room slowly comes to life. But before you rush over to set your table, there is one more important detail to take care of.
Cover your ground
A good game room needs to be designed with heavy traffic in mind. There certainly will be food and drinks, and hard objects (like billiard balls) will occasionally hit the ground. For that reason, a solid and durable carpet might be your best option. A wall-to-wall cover will not only keep the playing area safe but also reduce the noise. Of course, if you’re a fan of hard or wooden floors, you should go for it! Just, you know, try not to drop balls too often. Now that your room is prepared, it’s time for the best part.
Choose your favorite furniture
Ideally, by now, you know the theme you’re going after, and all that’s left is to set the dream furniture in place. Customarily, the pool table takes place in the center of the room, but don’t let that rule restrain you. Feel free to offset things and create an original composition. Just remember to leave enough room so the players can maneuver comfortably around the table. Add bar or spectator chairs for the other players and spectators to sit on. You’ll obviously need a cue rack, but you don’t have to stop there. Let your imagination carry you a little. Add a dartboard cabinet in the corner or a small area for kids and other young guests to play.
Remember, this is your game room, and its main purpose is to let you spend meaningful quality time with your friends and family. And now, with all that knowledge, don’t just sit searching for another post to “learn a bit more.” Grab a piece of paper and start designing your perfect game room now!
FAQ’s
What is the first step in planning a game room?
The first step is to pick the right room and draw a layout plan. Ensure enough space around the billiard table for free movement, considering at least 5 feet around the table and additional space for spectators and other room elements.
Why is lighting important in a game room, and how should it be arranged?
Good lighting is crucial as it sets the mood and focuses attention on key areas, particularly the billiard table. It’s important to choose lighting that complements the style or theme of the room and ensures the playing area is well-lit.
What type of flooring is recommended for a game room?
Durable carpeting is recommended for its ability to withstand heavy traffic, accidental spills, and noise reduction. However, if you prefer hard or wooden floors, that’s also an option, but be cautious with dropped objects like billiard balls.