Bringing people together can be a challenge, even for the best of hosts. Whether built for playing cards, billiards, or something else altogether, the best game room ideas anticipate how groups, big and small, will engage with the space. Especially important in the era of ever-distracting smartphones, a well-appointed game room can translate into a successful night of hosting. It can be as simple as an alcove with a card table and chairs or as elaborate as an at-home bowling alley. Whatever your flavor, these inviting spaces provide smooth gaming experiences and make it easy to bridge gaps between guests.
Thinking of designing one yourself? Look no further. Below we’ve chosen 26 of our favorite game room ideas from the AD archive to inspire what will become the most entertaining room in your client’s home. Play on!
Photo: Laure Joliet, AD, July 2021
Tent it up
“I love games—charades, beer pong, poker, Cards Against Humanity, tug-of-war, whatever feels fun,” Cara Delevingne told AD during our July 2021 tour of her home, which features a ball pit, a costume room, and plenty of other fun-centered spaces. We’re partial to the tented poker room, which was designed (along with the rest of the home) by architect Nicolò Bini of Line Architecture. See? Even a small room can be crafted into a transportive gaming room setup.
Photo: Douglas Friedman, AD, November 2019
Lake Tahoe relaxation
The Ken Fulk–designed Lake Tahoe vacation home of Instagram founder Kevin Systrom is all about bringing people together. The study, a space that may be used for alone time in other properties, was instead decorated for gatherings. The Milo Baughman game table at its center is an ideal spot to unpack a few board games.
