Turning a sunroom into a bedroom can be a great way to add valuable living space to your home. With some strategic planning and elbow grease, you can transform that underutilized area into a comfortable and inviting sleeping space. In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know to successfully convert your sunroom into the perfect bedroom.
Assessing Your Sunroom’s Potential
Before turning a sunroom into a bedroom project, you’ll want to make sure the space has the right attributes to work as a sleeping area.
Here are some key things to consider:
Size and Dimensions
A standard bedroom needs to be at least 7 x 10 feet to accommodate a queen bed and other basic furniture. Measure your sunroom to ensure it meets these minimum dimensions. If it’s on the small side, you may need to get creative with space-saving furniture or Murphy beds.
Exposure and Temperature
Sunrooms are designed to let in ample natural light and warmth. But for a comfortable sleeping environment, you’ll want the space to stay cool and dark. Assess the number of windows, their locations, and whether you can block light and reduce solar heat gain with window treatments. If temperature control seems difficult, consider adding insulation during the conversion process.
Moisture and Humidity
Dampness and humidity can cause issues in a bedroom. Check your sunroom for leaks or signs of excessive moisture. Dehumidifiers and moisture barriers may be needed to prevent mold and mildew growth. Proper ventilation is key.
Accessibility
A bedroom should be accessible from the main living space but also allow for privacy. Determine how you’ll enter the new bedroom – via a new door or existing window opening. Make sure the space feels like a separate, secluded room.
Electrical and Lighting
Sufficient power outlets and appropriate lighting are must-haves. Evaluate your electrical system to see if upgrades are needed. Wall sconces, reading lamps, and ambient lighting will make the space feel like a bedroom.
Noise
Bedrooms should be quiet and peaceful. Identify any potential noise issues – nearby mechanical equipment, echoes, exterior sounds – and how to mitigate them. Acoustic tiles, rugs, and soundproofing materials can help reduce disruptive noise.
Planning the Bedroom Layout
Once you’ve deemed your sunroom fit for bedroom conversion, it’s time to start planning the layout. Mapping out furniture placement and people flow in advance prevents surprises down the road.
Here are some tips:
Allow for Entry & Exits
Be sure to map out how you will enter and exit the new bedroom. Doorway placement largely determines furniture layout. If adding a new door, avoid blocking windows or HVAC equipment.
Focus on Bed Placement
The bed is the most important decision – it’s the centerpiece of any bedroom. Position it for safety, allowing 2-3 feet on all sides. Near windows can get cold in winter – avoid if possible.
Include Other Bedroom Essentials
Remember to accommodate a nightstand, dresser, lighting, and additional furniture in your plan. Decide what’s needed and factor it into the layout. Built-ins like bookshelves can add valuable storage without taking up as much space.
Maximize Clearance & Walkways
Avoid narrow pathways between furniture – at least 30 inches of clearance is ideal. Check that doors and drawers have room to fully open without obstruction. Keep corners accessible.
Consider Sightlines & Views
Position the bed and other furniture to make the most of attractive views and natural light from windows. But also use sightlines to enhance privacy – avoid directing the bed towards doorways.
Select Multi-Functional Pieces
Storage beds, ottomans, and side tables with shelving maximize space efficiency. Murphy beds and convertible furniture pieces also open up floor space when not in use.
Making Structural and Design Changes
Converting a sunroom typically involves some structural and design modifications to make it feel and function like a bedroom.
Here are some projects to consider taking on:
Install Insulation
If your sunroom lacks insulation, adding it during conversion helps control temperature. Foamboard, fiberglass and cellulose are common options. This also helps soundproof the room from outside noise.
Add or Replace Flooring
Many sunrooms have tile or concrete slab floors – not ideal for bedrooms. Install carpet, laminate or vinyl to make the floor warmer and more comfortable. This also reduces noise and brightens up the aesthetic.
Update Electrical and Lighting
Sufficient lighting makes a bedroom usable and safe. Swap outdated fixtures, add more outlets, and install overhead and wall lighting. Dimmer switches create an ambiance for relaxation.
Modify or Add Windows
To darken and insulate the space, you may need light-blocking window treatments or new glazing built for energy efficiency. Skylights and sun tunnels, however, can still introduce natural light.
Build Closet Storage
Bedrooms need enclosed storage space. Turn an underutilized recess into closet space with drywall or ready-made closets. Or install a closet organizing system in an existing closet.
Add Finishing Touches
Paint or wallpaper, window treatments, moldings, and new hardware give the space a complete bedroom look and feel. Warm paint colors and soft textures make rooms feel tranquil.
Update HVAC
Ensure the new bedroom has adequate climate control. Add a register if your HVAC system doesn’t reach the sunroom. Ceiling fans improve air circulation and comfort.
Choosing the Right Bed
Arguably the most exciting part of converting a sunroom to a bedroom is selecting the perfect bed! Here are some tips for choosing bed frames, mattresses, and bedding with your new room in mind:
Consider Size
Don’t sacrifice comfort – choose a bed size that fits the room but allows peaceful sleep. Measure thoroughly and account for nightstands and walking space on all sides.
Choose Durable Materials
Humidity can damage some materials over time. Wood, metal, and upholstered beds made of moisture-resistant materials hold up best. Also, avoid ornate frames that collect dust.
Look for Storage Space
Storage beds maximize space efficiency. Look for under-bed drawers or lifted frames with storage inside. Some headboards incorporate shelving.
Evaluate Features
From adjustable bases to upholstered headboards, today’s beds offer plenty of features. Decide which are important – USB ports? Bookcase headboard? – before purchasing.
Select Breathable Mattress
In humid spaces, mattresses that sleep cool are ideal. Look for options with cooling gels or open-cell structures. Avoid memory foam, which retains heat.
Choose Lightweight Bedding
To prevent overheating, use lightweight cotton or bamboo sheets. Duvet covers and quilts work better than heavy comforters in warm, humid rooms.
Add Moisture Protection
Mattress and pillow protectors prevent mold and mildew growth. Waterproof mattress pads also catch spills and perspiration.
Splurge on Pillows
This is worth investing in for better sleep quality. Look for pillows ideal for your sleep position – there are many to choose from!
Making the Space Feel Like “Bedroom”
Small finishing touches go a long way in making your converted sunroom feel like a restful, relaxing bedroom retreat:
Incorporate Texture
Area rugs add visual warmth and softness underfoot. Upholstered headboards, velvet pillows, and linen bedding also add a cozy texture.
Display Artwork
Hang favorite photos, paintings, or prints to give the space personality. Opt for framed artwork instead of wall decals which can peel in humidity.
Add Greenery
Plants boost mental health and air quality. Choose low-light varieties on nightstands and dressers. Hanging plants are also a nice touch.
Include Ambient Lighting
Table lamps, string lights, and wall sconces set a peaceful mood. Dimmer switches allow adjusting the brightness as needed.
Choose Tranquil Colors
Soft blues, greens, and grays evoke relaxation. Neutral walls and bedding provide flexibility to switch up accent colors.
Add Aromatherapy
Essential oil diffusers or scented candles (used safely) introduce calming scents. Lavender and eucalyptus are soothing options.
Incorporate Technology
Install black-out shades for darkness and wake-up lights that mimic sunrise. Smart lights, sleep apps, and white noise machines can also aid rest.
Conclusion
Transforming your unused sunroom into a cozy new bedroom takes strategic planning, design savvy, and a bit of work. But the payoff is well worth the investment. Follow the tips above to assess your sunroom’s potential, plan an efficient layout, undertake the structural renovations required, choose perfect bedding, and add those all-important finishing touches. Soon, you’ll have a beautiful new bedroom to enjoy for years to come!
FAQs
What are the risks of mold when turning a sunroom into a bedroom?
Sunrooms tend to be damp, humid spaces – ideal conditions for mold growth. Take preventative steps like installing a dehumidifier, moisture barriers on walls, and ensuring good air circulation. Additionally, use materials like metal and wood that resist mold, and avoid carpet. Regularly monitor for any signs of mold.
What temperature should I keep the bedroom at for optimal sleep?
This ambient temperature helps regulate your body’s core temperature, leading to better sleep quality. Having a consistent temperature through the night is also important – invest in a thermostat and quality insulation to achieve this. You may need to experiment with different temperatures to find your perfect sleep environment.
How much natural light is recommended in a bedroom?
It’s best to limit natural light in a sleeping space, especially in the morning when the sun rises. Exposure to bright light tells your brain to wake up. Install room darkening shades and consider reducing the number of windows. If possible, position your bed away from windows. However, some natural light during the day is beneficial – you just want to control when and how much enters the room.
What’s the best way to soundproof a converted sunroom for sleeping?
Proper insulation helps deaden noise, but focus on soundproofing windows in particular – a common source of noise intrusion. Install noise-blocking glazing like double or triple-pane windows, which have air gaps between panes. Solid core doors also reduce noise. For DIY sound dampening, hang noise-reducing drapes and blankets, and use thick area rugs. Acoustic foam panels on walls and ceilings absorb disruptive noises.
Should I get a building permit to convert my sunroom into a bedroom?
If you’re making major structural changes like moving walls, adding electrical wiring, or installing new windows or doors, a permit is usually required – especially if you plan to meet egress requirements for emergency exits. Permits ensure your renovation meets building codes and is inspected for safety. Even if not legally required, requesting a permit is wise to get guidance and avoid potential issues down the road. Check with your local building department to understand the regulations in your area.
