Use Hilary Farr's Creative Idea To Turn Wasted Space Into An At-Home Yoga Studio

If you're searching for the perfect way to utilize wasted space, Hilary Farr has a meditative solution. On Season 9, Episode 2, of "Love It or List It," Farr assisted Matt and Marcy in turning their awkward floor plan into a home brimming with amenities. Pre-renovation, the couple had dubbed their underused enclosed porch as the "cat room," because it was more often used by the cats than house guests. Farr saw this as an opportunity to create a fully functional yoga studio. From the new hardwood floors to the plethora of windows, the space was transformed into a stylish sanctuary. 

Organization was key to turning this space into something livable. Farr chose to place a hall tree in the corner of the room to store elements like yoga mats, towels, and blocks. Keeping things off the floor was a must because the new hardwood floors were meant to be seen. If you're searching for a similar storage piece, consider this hall tree from Wayfair for $164.99. In an apparent effort to keep it airy, the only other piece of furniture is a wood chest topped with a few figurines, vases, and candles.

An at-home zen yoga room can take your practice to the next level. So, take a cue from Farr, and turn an empty room or enclosed porch into a personal studio. However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind when you're planning your space. If you're transforming your garage or sunroom, these spaces can lack proper insulation to make your room comfortable for a workout. It can be tricky to choose the right type of insulation for your garage or bonus space. As an affordable solution, you can use a product like thermal foil from The Home Depot for about $25 a roll. But, it may not fit the light and breezy aesthetic you're looking for. Consider adding a tapestry or gauzy fabric if you want to conceal the shiny surface, but make sure to leave an air gap between your cover and the foil for maximum efficacy.

When it comes to the design of your at-home studio, maximizing natural light is essential. If you don't have the ability to add or enlarge windows, there are a few techniques you can employ to create a bright space. One smart way to brighten up a dark room is to add faux skylights starting at a little over $300 from Amazon. While this is technically artificial light, it will give the illusion of natural light in your space. You should also consider adding warm-toned lamps throughout your meditation room for a calming ambiance. Lightening your floors, or swapping them out for a natural material like Farr did, is another key way to create a more zen-like space.