Calming & therapeutic: The rise of hobby rooms

Gone are the days when hobbies were only pursued in certain places outside of the home. People are now renovating and deco rating the coolest corner or space in their houses, and making it all about them. Whether it’s a spare room or a corner in the balcony, these spaces are becoming vibrant zones for painting, reading, working out or creating content. “It’s all about carving out space for what brings one joy. These rooms aren’t just ‘extras’ any more, they’re personalised spaces that help people relax, recharge, and enjoy their passions right at home,” says Punam Karla, an interior designer in Delhi.

‘A third space helps you rest and recharge’
With hybrid work routines and a constant search for work-life balance, spaces like a hobby room in one’s home serve as a place to reset and relax. “For emotional health, it’s important to have a ‘third space’ at home that isn’t work or rest. It lets your mind rest and helps you recharge without making you feel bad or lazy. This space is just for you, not for work or chores, and it helps you get in touch with who you really are. Being here every day helps you become calmer, curious, and aware of yourself, and makes you feel more balanced and clear-headed,” says Dr Rahul Chandhok, a mental health consultant.

'A hobby room is no longer a luxury'spaces, people are finding various ways to include hobby areas in their houses. Multi-purpose design, folding furniture and vertical storage are some of the methods used by people to create space for hobbies. Some turn storage rooms into creative corners, while others convert balcony spaces into mini gardens. Sonali Ashar, an interior designer in Mumbai, believes that today, a hobby room is no longer a luxury but a necessity. “It is where passion meets pause — proof that in the middle of the hustle, joy still needs a room of its own,” she adds.

'A post-pandemic shift in using spaces'
There has been a marked rise in people seeking hobby rooms and multi-functional spaces, especially post-pandemic, as homes have evolved into holistic environments for work, wellness, and leisure. More people are prioritising personal expression and wellbeing within their interiors, whether through bespoke reading nooks, art studios, wellness corners, or adaptable spaces that seamlessly transition from a home office to an entertainment zone. As designers, we are increasingly curating interiors that are not just visually compelling but also emotionally resonant and purpose-driven,” says Sonali Ashar, an interior designer in Mumbai.

TYPES OF HOBBY ROOMS

1. Creative corners like a small desk with art supplies, crochet kits, embroidery, a sewing machine or writing tools
2. Music room with soundproofed curtains, recording gear and music system
3. Home studios for content creators having mood lighting, ring lights, favourite decor and theme for the videos, photo shoot or podcast equipment
4. Fitness zone includes yoga mats, meditation cushions or gym equipment
5. l Reading or home library with one’s favourite books and warm lights

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