Game Room: 101
As autumn draws to a close and winter begins in earnest, just like the wild creatures outdoors, we withdraw into our cozy nests to wait for the return of spring. Fireplaces blaze, hot cocoa beckons, and we look more closely at our indoor surroundings than in the warm, happy days of summer.
Is there an empty bedroom now that one of the kids has moved out? Are you tired of all that basement space being used only for storage? Envision a room where you can leave everyday problems behind, relax and have fun. A game room can be a combination of all things fun-related for both grown-ups and kids.
Contractor Bruce Snyder (Penn Contractors) says the first thing to do when considering making an existing or new space into a game room is to decide exactly what you want to include. “If you’re putting in a pool table, ping-pong or shuffle board (or a combination of games), you need to consider the amount of room and lighting that each will need,” he says. For instance, if plans include a home theater, you don’t want an air hockey table placed nearby.
John Gebhardt, co-owner of Gebhardts (a games retailer), says it’s tough to put a game room in homes that were built before the 1940s because the rooms are usually too small. But most modern homes are well-suited, with many owners opting to use the basement. “The main focus in most game rooms is the pool table, and you need at least 14 by 18-feet set aside for it,” Gebhardt says. Newer pool table models can include a conversion top that allows it to double for table tennis or as a serving table for entertaining. Meanwhile, shuffle boards, which range in size from nine to 22 feet, can easily be added because they don’t need side space and can be placed directly against a wall.
What game room would be complete without a bar? Gebhardt says guests naturally gravitate to the bar for sociability. Snyder agrees that most game rooms include a bar, which means careful planning for electrical and plumbing needs. “Some homeowners include full kitchens and limited bathrooms for easier entertaining,” he adds.
According to Snyder, most building codes require an egress for a basement remodel. This can be accomplished by adding larger, fully operational windows (at least 5’ by 5’) to create an escape well or by installing Bilco doors. “This also brings natural air and light into the space, which is something homeowners want,” he explains.
Flooring? Snyder says to consider what activities will be going on in which part of the room. Carpeting absorbs sound, but engineered wood is also an option, as it will stand up to basement moisture better than solid wood. Area rugs can be added for comfort in play and seating areas.
Lighting is important and can include everything from floor lamps to bar lights to dimmable overheads. Again, planning what activity goes where will determine how much and what type of lighting you’ll need. Gebhardts carries a wide selection of pool table lights, many with sports themes.
Getting back to those games, Gebhardt says kids love “old roots” games like pool, air hockey, table tennis and darts (for older children). “These games help with eye-hand coordination and physical development,” he notes. For versatility, an octagonal three-in-one table allows for playing poker and bumper pool or for dining. Quoit boards, foosball and Nok hockey are also popular with both kids and adults.
Contrary to years past, playing pool and games is a year-round activity, because the Lehigh Valley is normally hot and humid in the summer, so people retreat indoors then as well.
As for decorating, let your imagination run wild. This is one room where you can fully express your personality by displaying collections, memorabilia (all those concert tickets you’ve saved over the years or album covers from your favorite rock groups), your favorite sports team or college paraphernalia, posters of beloved vacation destinations, Nascar…anything is fair game in this space. According to Gebhardt, you can customize your pool table with themed tops (Harley Davidson is just one choice) and even decide on finish and leg style to support whatever theme you’ve chosen. Furnishings can include spectator chairs, conversational seating, pub tables and sofas for lounging.
“People are always willing to put money into their homes for recreation,” Gebhardt summarizes. “And, contrary to years past, playing pool and games is a year-round activity, because the Lehigh Valley is normally hot and humid in the summer, so people retreat indoors then as well.” So much for the wintertime retreat theory that began this article!
RESOURCES
Penn Contractors
419 Dalton Street
Emmaus, PA 18049
610-965-4204
www.penncontractors.com
Gebhardts
1010 Airport Road
Allentown, PA 18109
610-439-8464
800-523-9220
www.gebhardts.com
Nancy Moffett has a passion for - and many years’ experience in - writing about home-related topics. She also covered this month’s “Hot Ticket” and “Preparing to Winterize Your Home.”
