How To Create The Best Custom Game Room For Your Home
There are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to setting up a game room. First and foremost, you must determine the type of game room you desire. Is there enough space for you? Is it possible to fit all the products on your wishlist within your budget? Do you have children, and if so, are they old enough or responsible enough to handle the type of space you want?
Don't worry; we're here to answer some of your lingering game room worries and walk you through the possibly frustrating setup procedure.
Planning Stage Considerations
Before you begin, there are a few things you should understand and consider. When planning a custom game room, think about the room's purpose and function first, then consider the square footage required and the expenditures involved.
Function of the Room
Will this area be only for a pool table and pool games, or will it be used for other purposes? You may need more square footage if you want to use the room for other activities, socializing, or partying, especially if you're converting an existing space.
Larger areas allow you to creatively integrate multiple activities into a single room, such as a pool table/game room, arcade machines, or a wet bar space. Consideration of function will aid you in developing a strategy and budget.
Size and Square Footage You Will Work With
A pool table may fit in a room, but it may not be possible to accommodate anything else. It's crucial to visualize your space with people, chairs, furniture, and decorations in place.
A basic pool table measures 4.5' by 9' in size. The following is a typical calculation for estimating the amount of square footage required to play around the table:
[Total area required for comfortable play: table + twice the length of a regular cue on each side]
Because standard cues are between 50 and 60 inches long, the total dimensions required to cue up shots are around 14' x 18'. Of course, if you need to make adjustments to an existing space, you can find smaller tables and cues.
Still, the point is that cue length should always be considered in addition to table dimensions, so you don't end up pinned between the table and a wall with the cue sticking straight up in the air as you line up a shot.
If you want a multi-purpose game room, make sure to consider space for furniture, storage, and other room amenities like a card table or entertainment center.
Game Room Pricing Breakdown - What To Expect
Have your cash on hand because we want your game room to have more than just a few board games or a game console. You’ll need a budget of at least $4,000-$5,000 if you want to acquire a nice assortment of the items you desire, such as a bar, billiards table, furnishings, and other gaming equipment.
Pricing Breakdown |
|
---|---|
Billiards Table |
Between $500 - $5,000 (it will depend on the style/model) |
Home Bar Set |
Between $1,500 - $4,000 (with stools & accessories) |
Game Room Furniture |
Between $500 - $1,500 (complete set) |
Wall Deco |
Between $100 - $500 (things such as posters, light-Up signs, dartboards, etc) |
Arcade/Pinball Machines |
Between $300 - $1,500 (including vintage machines) |
Lighting |
$100 - $250 (pool table lights) |
What Table Should You Get?
You want to make your home's game room the best it can be, right?. It'll become a great gathering spot for you and your visitors, and you'll be able to play classic games from the comfort of your own home. Furnishing a home game room can be a fun experience, but where do you start?
The furnishings you use can create a home game room that suits several styles and tastes thanks to a wide range of potential designs, layouts, and features. If you're looking for game table ideas for your new leisure area, look through the home gaming room ideas below to create a space that fulfills all of your requirements.
Billiards Table
A billiard table, sometimes known as a billiards table, is a bounded table used for cue sports. Today, all billiards tables (whether for carom, pool, pyramid, or snooker) have a level surface constructed of quarried slate, covered with cloth (typically tightly-woven worsted wool called baize) surrounded by vulcanized rubber cushions. A great addition, you can never go wrong with this classic in your game room.
Pool Table
The size of the table distinguishes the pool from billiards. Pool tables must be at least 3.5' by 7' in size, whereas billiards tables must be at least 5' x 10' in size. The pool employs anywhere from 9 to 15 object balls depending on the game, whereas billiards uses three larger balls than pool balls. If you choose a pool table, you have the same game possibilities as with a billiards table.
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Snooker Table
The term 'billiards' was initially used to refer to a specific game called 'carom billiards,' but it has since grown to encompass a wide range of games played on a table with balls and a cue stick. Even though carom billiards and pool are commonly played with comparable equipment, each game has its regulations. On the other hand, Snooker is a game played with similar equipment but with its own set of rules. The games in snooker are divided into frames. A player can win a frame by scoring the most points by pocketing the red and colored balls with the cue ball. Choose a snooker table, and fun is 100% guaranteed.
Poker Table
A poker table, also known as a card table, is made expressly for playing card games. We may do so by creating an atmosphere that includes all of the necessary aspects of a regular poker table. The most crucial thing is to play on a simple poker table with casino-quality poker chips! You can experience a casino atmosphere with a poker table. Give a twist to your game room by getting a poker table.
Foosball Table
Foosball is played in many different countries, each with its own table. With so many distinct types of 'football nationalism,' it's understandable that few are the same. However, the ideal foosball table will be determined by the purpose and available area.
Shuffleboard Table
A shuffleboard table or table shuffleboard is a game where players have to push metal-and-plastic pucks down a long and smooth wooden table—until it reaches the scoring area—which is located at the opposite end of the table. You don’t need cue sticks to play, only your hands, which makes it a bit addictive, thus, a wonderful option.
Should You Allow Kids Inside Your Game Room?
Do you really want your brand-new table cluttered with toys or other children's objects, even though it's called a game room? No, most likely not. If you're serious about creating a great-looking billiards room for yourself, you might want to make it an "Adults Only" affair.
Where to Make It
Perhaps you've never had a game room before, or you're updating your house and want to add the best amenities and furniture. In any case, knowing what to put in a game room will help in creating a relaxing and entertaining environment. Consider the following spaces and options:
Room Options For a Game Room
Many homeowners consider remodeling or adding a pool/game room that may be used for various purposes. A wine bar or wet bar and an area for board games or video games are popular additions to the space chosen to put the game room in. Build a pleasant area for family and friends in any of the following spaces:
Loft or open space plan
Lofts are enticing living areas with endless possibilities that are incredibly convenient. More space, more light, and more versatility are all advantages of lofts and open spaces.
Basement
In general, basements are large and can fit all types of furniture, including games. A basement has privacy, extra storage space, and they sometimes have additional bathrooms, so your guests can be more comfortable.
Private room
Rooms that are separated and private give a sensation of a unique atmosphere. A place you enter to forget about the world. This is why private rooms are an excellent option to have a game room. Exclusivity and privacy are sometimes better than just playing a pool game.
Attic
Attic game rooms are also ideal for entertaining friends over the weekend, and they provide a welcome reprieve from your hectic schedule. Whether it's a long poker night that lasts into the wee hours of the morning or a relaxing evening spent around the pool table, game rooms in the attic offer a variety of benefits. Just make sure the strength of your attic floor is ideal.
Preparing The Space
The first step in creating your game room is to determine how much space you have. The easiest way to make a game room work is to concentrate on one main kind of entertainment. If a pool table is a part of the game room equation, it ought to be the focal point. Making everything fit is the key to it all.
The Billiard Congress of America recommends that you examine the space measures you have to do this appropriately (BCA).
Make Plans/Sketch
One thing is to picture your ideal game room project in your mind, and another is to be able to portray that dream onto paper, whether just to help you organize everything or to share it with someone who knows the ways of interior design. Make plans or sketch your game to make it a feasible project.
Space Needed For a Game Table
A modest-size game table set will fit in an area of at least 8 square feet. A space of 10 to 12 square feet may be required for more comfortable dimensions and larger-scale furnishings. Next is a size chart so you can get a general idea of the space needed according to what you want to install in it:
Size Chart for Pool/Billiards Game Room
Home gaming room: the chart below shows the minimum size required for any combination of pool table size and cue length |
||||
---|---|---|---|---|
Table Size |
42″ Cue |
48″ Cue |
52″ Cue |
58″ Cue |
7′(39″ x 78″) |
10′9″ x 14′ |
11′6″ x 14′9″ |
12′2″ x 15′5″ |
13′ x 16′3″ |
8′(44″ x 88″) |
11′ x 14′7″ |
12′ x 15′7″ |
12′7″ x 16′3″ |
13′5″ x 17′1″ |
8 1/2′(46″ x 92″) |
11′1″ x 14′11″ |
12′1″ x 15′11″ |
12′3″ x 16′7″ |
13′7″ x 17′5″ |
9′(50″ x 100″) |
11′5″ x 15′7″ |
12′5″ x 16′7″ |
13′14″ x 17′3″ |
13′11″ x 18′1″ |
Biggest Game Table Size Breakdown
Pub/Bar Size 7 Foot
The size of official league tables is either 6ft or 7ft. Both the 6ft x 3'6 and 7ft x 4ft tables are typical in pubs in the United Kingdom and bars worldwide.
Professional Table 8 foot
Eight foot tables (8' x 4') are often considered 'professional' size, whereas 7' tables (7' x 3'6”) are considered 'bar' size. Most pool table buyers will choose the larger table if they have the space since it provides a better playing experience.
Tournament Size 9 foot
The professionals play on nine-foot pool tables. Longer shots with more accuracy and speed control are required because of the larger size and often narrower pockets.
How Much Space Do You Need?
Space needed around the table
When designing a game room, there is one crucial design principle to remember. The game room should be designed around one or two of the bigger games, which will act as the focal point. For example, the pool table grabs attention since it is in the center of the room. Next to the pool table can be a big wall hanging, with lighting fixtures above it, while there is also a seating space off to the side.
Weight of the table
It is important to know the weight of the table in advance before installing one. This will depend on the floor of your space, also. For example, if you're planning to install a poker table or billiards table in your attic game room, you need to make sure the floor will support the weight, which is around 100 to 130 pounds.
Game Room Accessories You Should Consider
The first step, of course, is to decide the games you wish to play. A pool table and table tennis are popular game room combinations. Foosball is also very popular. There's also the tried-and-true option of professional card tables. You might also incorporate other accessories, such as the following:
Game table
Game tables are the main character in any game room, so make sure to consider this essential item for your new fun project.
Spectator/Game chairs
Spectator/Game Chairs will make your guests have a comfortable place to rest and play. Nothing like having a long poker game without resenting a part of your body. Get the most comfortable chairs you could get.
Pub Tables
Pub tables, often known as bar tables, are around 42 inches tall. When choosing a chair to go with a pub table, keep in mind that the chair's seat height should be 10 to 12 inches lower than the tabletop height for better comfort.
Jukeboxes
A jukebox is a colorful addition to any game room. Music should be a must in any reunion, so if you have the opportunity to get one, the investment will be worth it.
Entertainment center
Having an entertaining space in your game room will provide flexibility and versatility to the area. Want to play your favorite video games? Want to organize a movie night? An entertainment center will give you all these memories and more.
Arcade machines
A “Space Invaders” machine or any arcade video game machine, and even a hockey game are great additions to any game room.
Pinball machine
Because of its growing popularity among those who want to share their childhood memories and people who are interested in classic products, a pinball machine is worth considering.
Cues and cue racks
A hanging chalk rack or wall-mountable cue rack is an elegant and space-saving addition to the wall space around your pool table. Recessed wall racks are also available for even more space savings, and they can be readily installed into any game room wall.
Couch
Of course, spectators' chairs are great but nothing compares to a big comfy couch. Get a comfortable and functional couch that works in any fun environment.
Small tables
These are perfect for placing drinks, or any other item that guests bring while enjoying the whole experience.
Framed posters
A classic. The framed poster gives any game room that pop culture element that is appreciated.
Shelves
You might need space to place memorabilia, video games accessories, or even action figures—if you happen to collect them.
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Flooring Options For Your Game Room
Solid or laminate
Solid or laminate wood flooring is a fantastic alternative since it has a more welcome feel and a more sophisticated appearance than most other flooring options.
Tile flooring
Tile flooring is also a good option for game room flooring because it can be changed up by color or pattern to get a unique design.
Carpet
If you prefer the look of a carpeted game room remodel, indoor/outdoor carpeting is widely available and is incredibly resilient and easy to maintain. Basically, it's up to you (and your money) to decide.
Should Your Game Room Have A Bar?
A game room bar, another large centerpiece object, will take up a lot of room but may also be a lot of fun. Having enough room for the bar, bar stools, and, of course, the bartender can take up a lot of space. If you're short on room, it's always a good idea to tuck the bar into a corner or prominent wall location where it will draw a lot of attention. Then it's up to you to determine what basics to include; but if you have the extra funds, adding a few draft taps, running water, a mini-fridge, and an ice maker will assist to round out the experience.
The appearance of your bar will have a significant impact on the remainder of the game room's design, particularly in terms of decorations. Every bar requires a theme, which will undoubtedly extend to the rest of the space.
Wet Bar vs Dry Bar: Pros and Cons
Wet Bars
Wet bars have some form of plumbing. This is usually a little wash sink where margarita pitchers, shakers, and shot glasses are washed. Wet bars usually contain a dish drying rack or cotton rags to manually dry dishes so they may be quickly replaced in their designated spots.
A widespread misunderstanding is that if you have a bar with a kegerator (a refrigerator powered by electricity that keeps the keg cold), you have a wet bar. But that isn’t the case at all.
Pros of Installing a Wet Bar
Here are a few pros of having a wet bar:
- A quality drink menu.
- Entertainment results are more effective.
- A bartender experience.
Cons of Installing a Wet Bar
On the other hand, here are a couple of cons of installing a wet bar:
- Someone’s got to do the dishes during the party.
- It costs a lot of money to run one.
Dry Bars
It's a sink. That is the sole difference between the two. It's a wet bar if it features a sink, but it's a dry bar if it only includes dry storage for liquor bottles and a shelf for glasses.
While this is theoretically the sole distinction, it isn't the only thing that people do differently with their dry and wet bars. If someone has a wet bar, it's usually for a reason.
Because you have a sink to clean them in, you can include margarita machines, blenders, and shakers for mixed drinks. Nobody wants to run laps from the basement to the kitchen merely to wash their dishes and then return them to the basement.
Pros of Installing a Dry Bar
A few of the dry bar pros are the following:
- There is no maintenance extra costs
- It requires less space
- DIY friendly
Cons of Installing a Dry Bar
And here are a couple of cons of having a dry bar:
- Drinks are not as high quality
- The space can look cluttered
Accessories For Your Bar
After you've built the bar cart of your dreams, there are a few things you'll need to make delicious cocktails in your game room remodel, aside from your glassware, of course. It all starts with the containers in which you stir or shake your drinks. Next are some accessories to consider for your game room bar:
- Barstools
- Draft Taps
- Running Water
- Mini-Fridge
- Ice Maker
Should Your Bar Have A Theme?
Another aspect to keep in mind is picking a bar design theme. Some game rooms and their bars go minimalistic and simply have the game tables with little to adorn the room. That can be its own modern style. However, other game rooms go for a whole bar design theme, right down to the building materials.
Based on the games you choose, you could go in a number of different directions. You could make the bar look like a classic arcade if you choose video games or pinball machines. Or you could go with a bar with textures and elegant lighting fixtures. These are just a couple of examples. In the end, whether you have a theme or not, the area should reflect your tastes and interests first and foremost.
Decorations
Now, you might be asking yourself, how do I decorate my game room? Next are some ideas on how to turn any game room space into a more personal experience. If you have the opportunity of decorating, do it, as it can be the most fun part of putting a game room together.
Light Up Bar Signs
There is nothing better than a light-up bar sign to catch your guests’ eyes. It will give a neon touch to a place that's meant to provide all the fun.
Sports Pennants
To demonstrate that you’re a fan of a team and bring a colorful atmosphere to your game room, sports pennants are a must.
Vintage Movie Posters
Vintage movie posters will always look good, and you can even get them at a cheap price.
Antiques
Now, if you happen to have a hidden gem in your home—or are willing to buy one— then maybe you should take advantage of it and place an antique in your game room remodel. Antiques are a matter of interest and they might even start a conversation with friends or any guests.
Wall-mountable Decorations
For a more sophisticated look, wall-mountable decorations are ideal. They sometimes work as shelves or just to give a more cozy appearance.
Should You Have a Game Room At Home?
Before you question yourself, "Do I really need a game room at home?" The first step, of course, is to decide the games you wish to play if that's the case. Combining a pool table and table tennis, for example, is a popular gaming room concept. Foosball is also very popular. There's also the all-time classic poker table.
Also, if you have a space such as a basement, attic, or even a patio that you want to make good use of, then a custom game room is perfect. We all want that space in which we can disconnect and only have fun. With the right budget and inspiration, anything is possible.
That pretty much covers everything you need to know about setting up a game room. It's now up to you to pick how you want to customize it. As previously stated, keep your budget and the room's space allocation in mind at all times. After then, it's up to you to pick your favorite games, art deco, and, most importantly, the guests with whom you'd like to share all of your hard work (and maybe that drunk Uncle of yours shouldn't be first on the list).
Just keep in mind that if this is your dream room, you'll want to treat it with the respect it deserves. Please refer to the team at Triangle Billiards for all the information you'll need to create and maintain your custom game room in excellent condition.
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