Designing a house with a secret room can be an exciting project that allows you to have a hidden space for any purpose you like. Whether you want a hidden office, library, safe room, or just a fun hidden spot, incorporating a secret room into your house design requires careful planning and execution. Here are some tips on how to design and build a house with a concealed room that only you know about.
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Why Have a Secret Room?
There are many reasons you may want a secret room in your home:
- Create a private home office or reading room – gain an area to work or relax away from the rest of the household
- Build a safe room or panic room – have a secure spot for emergency situations
- Make a secret play area for kids – design a concealed fort or play area
- Hide valuables like jewelry, cash, important documents – conceal a safe or storage space
- Add unique architecture and hidden spaces – build something exciting into your home’s design
Knowing why you want the secret room will help guide its location and amenities. Think about your intended purpose when planning.
Choosing a Location
The location of your hidden room can make a big difference in how secret it remains. Here are factors to consider when picking a spot:
- Accessibility – choose an area that is easy for you to access frequently but unlikely for others to find
- Noise – pick a spot that is less likely to have noises from the secret room detected
- Foot traffic – avoid high traffic areas so your coming and going is less noticeable
- Size – select a location with enough square footage for your desired room
- Proximity – having it nearer to certain rooms can be beneficial depending on your purpose
Popular secret room locations include master bedroom closets, behind bookcases, under staircases, or under trap doors in the floor. Basements or attics also provide total secrecy.
Secret Entryways
The entryway to your secret room is key – this is how you will access it without anyone else knowing. Here are common concealed entries:
- Hidden door in a wall – camouflage a door with wallpaper, mirrors, or shelves. Use magnetic locks.
- Bookcase door – door disguised as a bookcase that swings open when you move a special book or lever.
- Trap door – an entry in the floor is easy to cover with a rug.
- Elevator door – have a closet or pantry elevator down to the space.
- Staircase – staircase can be hidden behind a wall, under a trap door, or inside a closet.
Be creative and pick an entry style suited to your location. A hidden switch or trigger to open it adds extra secrecy.
Building Tips
When constructing your secret room, follow these tips:
- Use quiet materials – insulate walls/ceilings to prevent noise transmission.
- Hide vents and electric well – conceal any indicators someone is occupying the space.
- Waterproof underground rooms – prevent leaks in basement or under-floor spaces.
- Light and airflow – ensure your room has ventilation and lighting even without windows.
- Moisture protection – use materials resistant to mold and mildew.
- Sturdy build – construct the entryway from durable materials that will withstand regular opening/closing.
Table 1 – Recommended Materials for Secret Room Construction
| Component | Recommended Materials |
|---|---|
| Walls | Drywall, plywood, concrete, soundproof insulation |
| Door | Solid wood, steel, soundproof |
| Ceiling | Drywall, drop down acoustic tiles |
| Floor | Linoleum, concrete, laminate flooring |
| Lighting | LED lights, battery powered lights |
Furnishing Your Room
The furnishings you choose for your secret room depend on its purpose:
- Home office – desk, chair, shelves, computer, office supplies
- Library – bookshelves, reading chair, lamp, coffee table
- Safe room – bunker bed, bottled water and food, first aid kit, ventilation system
- Kid’s playroom – toys, games, arts and crafts, beanbags
- Storage – shelving units, storage containers, locking cabinets and drawers
Make sure all furnishings fit through your secret doorway and equip the room appropriately. Sturdy storage like bookcases can also disguise the entryway.
Maintaining Secrecy
To keep your secret room hush-hush:
- Don’t tell anyone – even closest family may let it slip
- Use it irregularly – coming and going at odd hours reduces notice
- Soundproof – add carpet, rugs, and sound deadening materials
- Hide signs – conceal any evidence of disturbance like footprints or shifted objects
- Keep it tidy – dust and vacuum regularly
- Update entry tricks – change combinations and passwords periodically
- Check for visibility – ensure doors or access points remain hidden from all angles
With careful planning and construction, you can build a room that stays your clandestine sanctuary for years.
Conclusion
Building a house with a secret room requires forethought and discreet design, but it can be an exciting project and allow you a private, secluded space limited only by your imagination. Choose a purpose for the room as well as an optimal location and access point. Use soundproofing, sturdy construction, and hidden triggers to maintain secrecy. Furnish and decorate it to fit your intended function. With some creativity and attention to detail, you can construct your own hidden retreat right under everyone’s noses!