This Forgotten ’90s Room Could Be 2027’s Trendiest Space

It’s never been chicer to be a “gamer” — board games and cards are having a major moment right now. Chess, cribbage, mahjong, Settlers of Catan, classic jigsaw puzzles — everyone is flocking to classic games that foster screen-free, in-person connection. And “game rooms” have long been a feature for these moments in interior design: From 19th-century billiard rooms to 20th-century “rec” rooms — and even 21st-century home arcades (hello, Nintendo!) — these spaces have existed for many years. But they’ve fallen out of favor with the rise of digital media, as homeowners opted to turn bonus rooms into home offices, gyms, or simple storage spaces. Thanks to the rise of trendy “analog” activities, interior designers say that’s all about to change.

A new demand for dedicated hosting space for games and hobbies doesn’t automatically mean that game rooms are back as they once were. Instead, interior designers say that the once-popular den is a perfect middle ground, making it poised to be a major renovation and wish list item for 2027. These intimate, multi-functional spaces are inviting, cozy, and fully multi-purpose, offering a versatile solution for homeowners who need a spare room to pull double duty. Here’s what you need to know about creating the perfect den for your home, and why it’s truly an upgrade to any extra space you’re looking to repurpose. 

While some use these terms interchangeably, a den is distinct from a living room; it’s a personal space often better suited to quiet hobbies or work. And more often than not, dens are tucked away on a secondary floor (or basement!), setting them apart from a main layout feature like the kitchen, dining room, or formal living room space. “When you look up the definition of den, it is described as the natural shelter or burrow of a wild animal, and I like to think that definition applies equally to humans,” explains Samantha Tosti, founder and principal designer of bi-costal firm Tosti Design. “When I think of a den as related to home, I picture the most comfortable room in the house. [It’s] a room where you want to retreat barefoot as a family after dinner to play games or watch a movie, or read a book quietly while some music plays.”

So, is a den just a smaller version of a living room or family room? Not exactly. Living rooms, for example, are often designed with entertaining in mind. They are public spaces in the home, and their design and layout reflect that. They often emphasize seating, whether for watching TV or conversing, Tosti adds. In contrast, dens are personal spaces meant for relaxation; they’re designed with the home’s occupants in mind, and they don’t need to allocate formal seating for guests. That’s part of what makes them so versatile and functional.

Dens and game rooms share many similarities, but they’re not one and the same (I promise we’re not just splitting hairs!). Game rooms, as their name indicates, are dedicated entirely to a single activity or function; they may contain multiple game or hobby areas, but the entire space is designed with gaming in mind. Dens allow for the same space but are deliberately expanded — meaning you’ll see elements like a reading nook or home library, a cozy crafting corner, a television with lounging seating, or even a small dinette for coffee or tea (or a bar cart!). It’s a personal space that’s only limited by your imagination and the size of your home. 

It may be the place you host a large mahjong tournament as well as an intimate game night, sure, but it also can be a place to retreat with friends and family. “We would categorize a game room … as a public space,” says Jen Bedford, founder and principal designer of North Carolina-based interior design firm Studio B. “If you would rather have an additional space to entertain, opt for a game room. If you are looking for a private, personalized retreat, a den is 100% the way to go.” 

In homes where space is limited, using every inch wisely matters, and that’s why dens are quickly rising in popularity. They support a range of activities and hobbies, and they serve homeowners first before they address guests, which often results in a quiet, cozy, highly personalized space. If you’re someone with a large home, lots of space to spare, and a knack for throwing big parties, then a traditional parlor or recreation room may be more up your alley. Ultimately, designers are loving dens for 2027, and so are their clients. 

“I think if there’s a spare room in the house, a den is a fantastic option because it just feels like a space that will inevitably get used, versus some aspirational hobby room that sounds amazing at first but then, in reality, barely gets used,” says Los Angeles-based designer Kelly Bartley. “A den is just an easy place for everyone to end up, whether you’re watching a movie, playing a game, reading, or having a drink.” 

What’s the secret to nailing a cozy, functional den that’s great for social gatherings? Designers agree a few key den features should come first: comfortable seating, functional layered lighting, and plenty of smart storage. “When designing, we like to include bookcases or storage cabinetry for puzzles, books, crafts, and other hobbies; layered ambient, task, and accent lighting that is easy to adjust for the moment; and casual, comfortable furniture for lounging,” explains Jody Jones, founder and principal designer of Chicago-based Blue Indigo Designs. 

If pros were to choose a single word to describe a den, it would be “cozy” (keep that in mind as you design your dream space!). Think: soft fabrics, layered textiles, natural materials, plush furniture, and ambient lighting to set the mood. Dark paint colors can also make the space feel enveloping — like a big hug! Ultimately, every den will look different, and that’s the point. “Maybe it’s the room you fit the piano in, and a puzzle or game table is an absolute must,” Tosti says. “Grandma left you an etagere that doesn’t quite work anywhere else in the house — the den is a perfect spot to hold on to those memories. We want your den to tell a story — be a visual reminder of what makes you feel safe and happy.”