10 Weird Home Improvements That Will Surprise You

Have you ever dreamt of living in a tree house, a former cathedral, or even a real-life version of the Simpson’s house? There are some truly wacky homes out there, not to mention some really creative homeowners.

If you’re looking for some way to spice up your living quarters, but you’re not quite ready to live in a home shaped like a crocodile or an airplane, read on! We have some weird home improvements that will make your space unique.

10 Weird Home Improvements (That Are Actually Doable)

These home improvements might not be found on any list of high-ROI projects, but they are definitely conversation starters — and might just enhance your everyday life.

1. A Hidden Passageway or Secret Room

You’re probably familiar with the concept of a bookshelf that rotates to reveal a secret passageway or even a hidden room that can only be accessed by those in the know. These figure prominently in mystery novels and spy movies. How cool would it be to have one in your own home?

One way to incorporate a secret space is by building a panic room. These are generally equipped with high-tech communication and a stash of provisions so that you can stay safe in the event of a natural disaster or terrorist attack.

2. A Home Sauna

Imagine being able to relax in a hot, steamy environment every time your muscles were sore or you felt a cold coming on. Home saunas are common in Scandinavia, and they’re catching on stateside, as well.

If you have the space for a sauna, it’s relatively easier to construct one. All you need is a small room that you can insulate, wood paneling and benches, and a sauna heater, which can be purchased online. Or you can buy a ready-made sauna to install anywhere, in order to get your sweat on at home!

3. Antique Cast Iron Radiators

When you think of radiators, you probably think of the kind that cool your car, like these from Affordable Radiators. But their residential counterparts, particularly cast iron vintage ones, are a wonderful way to lend any room a bit of antique gravitas. Some of them are absolutely beautiful, with intricate scrollwork and timeless craftsmanship.

4. A Media Room or Home Theater

Does your family love to gather and watch movies, trawl obscure YouTube channels, or binge the latest Netflix hit? Consider constructing a media room that offers all the bells and whistles of the theater experience.

That includes reclining seats or cozy couches, the biggest and best flat-screen TV you can afford, surround sound, and smart devices so you never have to worry about losing the remote.

Why not go all out and add a popcorn maker and wet bar or soda vending machine?

5. A Dumbwaiter

Dumbwaiters are essentially a small, hand-operated elevator for food or other objects that need to travel from one floor to another within your home. They were a mainstay of Victorian and Edwardian manor homes, saving servants from climbing the stairs — and keeping the food hot.

While they may seem like a charming relic, dumbwaiters are actually making a comeback. You know what they say — everything that’s old is new again!

6. A Laundry Chute

Similarly, laundry chutes were once a standard feature in the average household. You may have had one in your childhood home, or used one at your grandparents’. (If so, chances are you were tempted to slide down it yourself!)

In order to install a laundry chute, you’ll need to have a washer and dryer installed in the basement (or at least the ground floor). Depending on the layout of your home, there may also be some structural challenges. But this is one of those weird home improvements that will make your life a lot easier — and a little bit more fun!

7. A Spiral Staircase and Slide Combo

An actual slide will eliminate the temptation of taking a trip down the laundry chute! It’s a great idea for anyone who has kids, but even the adults in the home will benefit from being able to slide downstairs.

Since slides can take up a lot of room, it’s best to build a spiral version — which takes up a much smaller footprint. And since you certainly don’t want to climb up the slide every time you need to access the upper floors, add a spiral staircase alongside it.

8. Storage Under the Stairs

When you think about it, a regular staircase is a terrible waste of space. Why not put that space to use and gain some valuable square footage for storage while you’re at it?

Shelves that fit into the side of the stairs are relatively easy to install, but you can also install pull-out drawers.

9. A Tiny Nook Under the Stairs

Harry Potter fans, this one is for you. By removing the paneling or wall, you can create a cozy little under-stair nook that’s perfect for a toddler’s play space or a reading nook for anyone who’s a kid at heart. Trick it out with tons of cushions and pillows, and maybe even a built-in bookcase.

Another option for that otherwise unused space? A little apartment for your pet!

10. An Attached Greenhouse

Love to grow your own fruits, vegetables, and flowers? Want to save big on your heating bill? A greenhouse attached to your home does double duty by allowing you to garden all year ’round, no matter what the climate, and heating your home!

A greenhouse works as a passive solar energy collector, which means that your heating bill will be drastically reduced or even eliminated altogether. As a (huge!) bonus, you’ll be able to grow tomatoes, avocados, oranges, and other tropical foodstuffs right on your property!

Wrapping Up

Which of these weird home improvements are you tempted to actually try? Have you ever used a dumbwaiter or a laundry chute?

What’s the craziest home renovation project you’ve ever seen? Let us know in the comments below — and for more weirdness, don’t forget to check our blog regularly!

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