The Big Question: What Do You Do With an Empty Front Room?

A lot of homeowners get stuck here.
Do you make it a formal sitting room? An office? A music space?
After tossing around a few ideas, my client lit up at one suggestion:

A personal lounge and bar.

The layout was inspired by intimate cocktail lounges in boutique hotels.

Casual, but intentional. Social, but not stiff.

The Showstopper Wall

We designed a custom modern cabinet, sleek and streamlined.
Behind it? A massive backsplash made from marble-inspired, large-scale porcelain tile.
Think: dramatic veining, clean edges, and instant wow factor.

Floating shelves above the bar offer the perfect display for her curated collection of spirits and glassware.
It’s functional. It’s beautiful. It’s a conversation starter.

The seating? Four vegan leather swivel chairs in a soft, sultry hue.
Each with its own drink table, because balancing a cocktail on your knee isn’t really chic. Sheer drapes frame the windows with soft, quiet drama.
Overhead, a gold chandelier drops in just enough sparkle to keep things interesting.
A little sexy. A lot sophisticated.

Why This Works (and Why You Might Want One)

In Austin, and across Texas, open floor plans often leave homeowners puzzled about how to use these spaces.
A personal lounge solves the “empty room” problem and adds serious personality to your home.

It’s also a reminder that interior design isn’t just about filling a space.
It’s about creating an experience.
One that makes you want to linger, laugh, and maybe pour another glass.