This family needed a bigger house, but couldn’t afford an addition, check out how her husband reconstructed the existing stairway and high ceilings into a brand new playroom!
Sometimes it seems like we don’t have enough room in our homes, here’s how one family converted an otherwise waste of space into a simple playroom / home office area.
First they built in a solid base frame for floor joists and extended it all the way back to the original banister edge at the top of the stairs.
Then they added flooring:
Following that, they finished the area off with a few area rugs, a matching banister and cute computer/play room.
This is such a fantastic use of otherwise wasted space!
Image Credit to Angie B, what an incredible Idea!
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Well done……I wish I could do that but I need the instructions.
Beautiful idea!
Excellent use of space and it looks like it has always been there.
Beautiful if only used for office. If small kids around absolutely not. One of mine I’d be scraping off the floor downstairs.
Very nice
Did you use 2×6 or 2×8 for the floor joists?
In this particular project, 2×8’s were used.
The size of the floor joists you’ll need for converting a ceiling space into a playroom depends on several factors, including the span between supports (walls or beams), the load the floor will need to support, and local building codes. It’s important to consult with a structural engineer or local building department to ensure that your project meets safety and code requirements.
However, I can provide you with some general guidelines. Typically, for residential floor joists, 2×8, 2×10, or 2×12 lumber is commonly used. The choice of size depends on the span and the load-bearing requirements:
2×8 Joists: These are typically used for shorter spans and lighter loads. They may be suitable for smaller playrooms with minimal furniture and occupants.
2×10 Joists: These provide more strength and are suitable for longer spans and heavier loads. If your playroom will have moderate weight from furniture and people, 2×10 joists may be a good choice.
2×12 Joists: These are even stronger and are used for longer spans or heavier loads. If you anticipate a significant amount of weight or want to ensure extra stability, 2×12 joists may be recommended.
The specific size and spacing of the joists will also depend on your local building code requirements. In many cases, 16 inches on center (16″ OC) or 24 inches on center (24″ OC) spacing between joists is common. However, your local code may dictate different requirements, so it’s essential to consult with your local building department or a structural engineer to determine the appropriate size and spacing for your specific project.
Additionally, it’s important to consider factors like insulation, ventilation, and access when converting a ceiling space into a playroom. Proper insulation and ventilation are crucial for maintaining comfort and preventing moisture-related issues.
In summary, the size of the floor joists for your playroom will depend on factors such as span, load requirements, and local building codes.