Wood Finishes

The Return of the Rec Room: Why the Ultimate “Playroom for All Ages” Is Making a Comeback

The bonus room is back, and it is getting a serious upgrade. Once called the rec room or rumpus room, this flexible, often-overlooked space is quickly becoming one of the most valuable rooms in the home. Today’s homeowners are reimagining these spaces into versatile, multi-functional retreats that reflect how we actually live, work, and play.

A Space That Adapts to Every Stage of Life

What was once a casual basement or spare room is now being transformed into a space that adapts and evolves with the household. For families with young children, a bonus room can become a safe, creative playroom designed to grow as they do. It might begin as a soft, toy-filled space for toddlers, then evolve into a homework and reading zone for school-aged kids, and eventually become a media or hangout room for teens.

For adults, it is becoming a highly personalized retreat. Some are turning bonus rooms into hobby studios complete with built-in storage for art supplies, music equipment, or crafting essentials. Others are designing home theaters, gaming lounges, or yoga and meditation spaces that offer a place to recharge, unwind, and enjoy time together.

Multi-Purpose by Design

One of the most exciting aspects of the modern rec room revival is its flexibility. With thoughtful design and custom cabinetry, the same space can serve multiple purposes without feeling cluttered or chaotic. Built-in shelving keeps games and books organized, hidden storage conceals toys and hobby materials, and versatile furniture makes it easy to transition from kids’ playtime to grown-up gatherings in minutes.

When extra sleeping space is needed, the rec room can also convert into a comfortable guest suite. A built-in Murphy bed or pull-out sofa, paired with custom cabinetry for linens and essentials, means overnight guests feel welcome without sacrificing everyday functionality.

Designing for Joy and Connection

Ultimately, the resurgence of the rumpus room is about creating a space that brings people together. It is about carving out a place where creativity, play, and relaxation coexist, whether that means hosting game night, practicing yoga, building Lego towers with toddlers, or curling up with a good book.

At Behind Closed Doors Custom Closets & Cabinetry | A Division of Artisan Interiors Group, we specialize in designing multi-purpose spaces that are as beautiful as they are functional. Our team of designers and artisans creates custom cabinetry, built-ins, and storage solutions that make every inch of your home work harder and look better, including those often-overlooked bonus rooms.

From flexible family playrooms to adult hideaways and everything in between, today’s rec rooms are no longer an afterthought. They are becoming the heart of the home, places for hobbies, connection, creativity, and lasting memories

Design Ideas: Texture and Depth in Cabinetry

Beyond Flat: Elevate Your Cabinetry with Texture, Design, and Depth

At Behind Closed Doors Custom Closets & Cabinetry, we believe cabinetry should be as expressive and unique as the people who live with it. Our team has been attending top interior design shows across the country, and one trend is clearly on the rise: texture. Cabinetry is no longer just a background feature. It’s becoming a focal point through bold materials, layered finishes, and dimensional designs that bring a space to life.

From Storage to Statement

Flat panel cabinetry has long been a standard, but we’re seeing a shift toward options that add depth, character, and tactile interest. These finishes aren’t just about style—they transform functional storage into statement-making furniture. Whether you’re designing a walk-in closet, media center, home office, or bar, textured finishes can enhance the space in subtle yet powerful ways.

Design Trends We’re Loving

Raised Panels
A timeless look with a modern twist. Raised panels create architectural interest and are ideal for built-ins in formal spaces like dining rooms, libraries, and executive offices.

High Gloss Finishes
Polished and dramatic, high gloss cabinetry reflects light and brings a sleek, contemporary energy to kitchens, offices, or entertainment areas.

Leather and Faux Leather Inlays
Warm, luxurious, and unexpected. These surfaces add a sophisticated edge to closets, cocktail bars, or statement furniture pieces.

Pebbled and Textured Surfaces
Inspired by organic textures and natural elements, these finishes bring softness and movement to modern spaces, from bathrooms to mudrooms.

Wood Grains and Reclaimed Looks
Rich with texture and visual warmth, natural wood veneers and distressed laminates give cabinetry a grounded, earthy elegance that feels both timeless and trend-forward.

Why Texture Matters

Textured cabinetry does more than look good—it invites interaction. The depth and detail can change how a space feels, making it warmer, more dynamic, and more personal. It also helps define the tone of a room, whether you’re going for bold sophistication, understated luxury, or natural ease.

Your Vision, Brought to Life

Our experienced design team will guide you through a wide range of materials, finishes, and design options to create something that reflects your taste and enhances how you live. We don’t just build storage. We build furniture-quality pieces that elevate every corner of your home.

Ready to bring texture home? Let’s talk about cabinetry that goes beyond the flat front and creates a truly customized experience.

Visit www.bcdclosets.com to get started.

Real Wood vs. Laminate Finishes: Understanding the Difference and Making the Right Choice

When it comes to cabinetry and storage solutions, the choice between real wood and laminate finishes is a crucial one. At Behind Closed Doors, we pride ourselves on offering both options to cater to a variety of needs, styles, and budgets. Understanding the differences between these materials, and knowing when to use one over the other, can help you make an informed decision for your next home project.

Real Wood: Timeless Elegance and Natural Beauty

Characteristics: Real wood is a natural material that exudes warmth, beauty, and character. Each piece is unique, with its grain patterns and natural imperfections adding to its charm. Wood can be stained, painted, or left in its natural state, offering versatility in design. Our extensive product line includes a wide range of wood species, from rich mahogany to elegant oak, ensuring that you find the perfect match for your style.

Why Choose Real Wood?

Durability: Real wood is incredibly durable and can last for decades when properly maintained. It’s a great choice for high-traffic areas like kitchens or living rooms, where you want your investment to stand the test of time.
Aesthetic Appeal: There’s nothing quite like the look and feel of real wood. It adds a touch of luxury and sophistication to any space, making it an ideal choice for those who value craftsmanship and quality.
Resale Value: Homes with real wood cabinetry often have higher resale value, as buyers recognize and appreciate the quality and longevity of natural materials.

Project Examples: We’ve completed numerous projects using real wood, from elegant kitchen cabinets to custom-built bookcases and living room cabinetry. These spaces not only look stunning but are built to withstand daily use, providing our clients with long-lasting beauty and functionality.

Laminate: Modern, Affordable, and Versatile

Characteristics: Laminate is a synthetic material made by fusing multiple layers of paper and resin. It’s available in a wide variety of colors, textures, and patterns, including convincing wood-look finishes. Laminate is a popular choice for those looking for a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing style.

Why Choose Laminate?

Affordability: Laminate is typically less expensive than real wood, making it a great option for homeowners who want a stylish look without breaking the bank.
Durability: Modern laminates are highly durable and resistant to scratches, moisture, and heat. They’re perfect for areas that see a lot of wear and tear, such as bathrooms or laundry rooms.
Low Maintenance: Laminate is easy to clean and maintain, requiring no special treatments or refinishing, making it a practical choice for busy households.

Project Examples: Our laminate projects include sleek and modern home offices, durable laundry room cabinets, and stylish bathroom vanities. These spaces benefit from the practicality and affordability of laminate while still offering a high-end look.

Why We Offer Both: Tailored Solutions for Every Home

We believe in providing our clients with choices that fit their unique needs. While many of our competitors shy away from using real wood due to the higher costs and complexity involved, we embrace the challenge. Our team of skilled craftsmen and designers is equipped to handle both real wood and laminate projects with equal expertise, ensuring that you get the best possible outcome, no matter which material you choose.

Extensive Product Line and Finishing Touches

Beyond the material choice, we offer an extensive product line that includes a wide variety of door and drawer faces. From traditional raised panel designs to sleek, modern flat panels, we have options to suit every style. To complete your cabinetry project, we offer high-end countertop options and a large selection of hardware, including handles, knobs, and pulls that add the perfect finishing touch.

Crowning Your Project

The final piece of the puzzle is choosing the right countertop and hardware to crown your cabinetry. Whether you prefer the luxurious feel of granite or the modern appeal of quartz, we offer a range of countertop options that enhance the beauty and functionality of your space. Our hardware selection further elevates your design, providing the finishing touches that make your cabinetry truly unique.

Let us help you create a space that’s not only beautiful but also perfectly suited to your lifestyle. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and explore the possibilities!