How 3 Interior Designers Would Design Their Secret Room

Recently, a new design idea has tiptoed into the interiors world—the secret room. No, no trap doors or hidden passageways are required. Instead, the premise is pretty simple: Imagine you have a secret room that no one can access except you. How would you design it? This approach is supposed to allow you to design a space that is authentic to you, free from judgement.

The secret room trend is surging because people are looking for unique ways to express themselves through their decor; cookie cutter styles are out, and unique, creative spaces are in.

The toughest part of this design is getting started. Freedom from the rules of design is exhilarating, but it can also leave you a bit adrift when it comes to knowing where to begin. If you’re feeling stuck while doing this exercise, our advice is to start small and make just one choice. Whether that means choosing a color, a spirit, or just a specific piece of furniture you’ve always loved, focus on that first decision and build up from there.

But if you’re still not sure where to start, we spoke to three design professionals about how they would design their secret rooms. Peek into their ideas to jumpstart your imagination and create a unique vision for your own secret room.

Irit Andiroglu, Saf Collab

If I could design a secret room that no one else would ever see, it would be a hot Pilates room with infrared lighting and an excellent HVAC system to reduce the smell of sweat. This room would also serve a double purpose as a meditation space and function as a hammam.

Design-wise, the room would have warm, soothing tones and natural materials to create a calming atmosphere. The walls would be lined with wood panels, and the floor would be covered with non-slip tiles that are comfortable for both Pilates and hammam use. There would be large mirrors on one wall for Pilates practice, and soft, dimmable lighting to adjust the mood for meditation sessions. Infrared panels would be strategically placed to ensure even heating throughout the room.

In terms of amenities, the room would include high-quality Pilates equipment like reformers and mats, as well as comfortable seating and soft cushions for meditation. For the hammam experience, there would be a marble bench for reclining and enjoying the steam, along with a beautiful mosaic tile feature wall and gentle, ambient lighting.

Inspiration for this design comes from my passion for wellness and holistic health. The idea of combining physical exercise, meditation, and traditional Turkish bath elements in one space reflects a comprehensive approach to self-care and relaxation.

Design rules to break would include blending different functionalities in one space, such as combining a hot Pilates studio with a hammam and meditation area. Additionally, integrating advanced HVAC technology to manage the environment for different activities seamlessly would be an unconventional but essential feature.

Jess Quintero, Designs by JQ

My dream secret room would be a sanctuary of nature—a place to escape, recharge, and reconnect with myself. It would be a harmonious blend of indoor comfort and outdoor serenity, creating an immersive experience for all the senses.

This secret room would be cocooned in glass walls and a glass roof, offering an unobstructed view of the lush greenery outside. These glass elements would be retractable, allowing me to merge the cozy indoor space with the refreshing outdoors at will. A sliding floor would help transition the cozy indoor space into the outdoors, allowing for full immersion in nature.

Stepping inside, you’d be enveloped by a vibrant forest-like atmosphere. The air would be filled with the soothing scents of nature, thanks to scented misters. The room would be a versatile oasis: warm and inviting for hot yoga and meditation sessions, with natural sounds providing a calming backdrop, or cool and crisp for those moments when I want to curl up in a hammock with a cozy blanket. A gentle water fountain would provide a soothing soundtrack, while a cold plunge pool and a warm pool would offer perfect spots for relaxation. The centerpiece would be a stunning flower garden, bringing a burst of color and tranquility. To add a touch of mystery and excitement, hidden entryways like a disguised bookshelf door would be incorporated.

The retractable glass elements and sliding floor sections would create a dynamic environment that adapts to my mood and needs, challenging the notion that indoor spaces must be separate from nature. I would also embrace a blend of styles and textures, mixing modern and rustic elements to craft a unique, eclectic space. An outdoor shower, enveloped by lush greenery and vibrant flowers in a Bali/Tulum design aesthetic, would elevate the space, making it a true haven for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Kerry Whippee, Shamrock Hill Design

Imagine stepping through a hidden door, like the one in Chronicles of Narnia, and finding yourself transported to a Jumanji-style jungle. The walls of my secret room are painted in deep emerald greens and rich, chocolate browns. Hanging from the ceiling are faux pothos vines intertwined with twinkling fairy lights.

The floor is a blend of natural textures, featuring a mix of weathered wooden planks and patches of soft, moss-like carpeting. When I close my eyes, the magic of my secret room comes to life! Scattered throughout are very large, decorative stones. Even though there are no design rules in my secret room, I love the balance between hard and soft. The large stones help my space feel safe and grounded. I can hear the waterfall in the distance. There’s also rustling leaves that brush my feet as I make my way through this paradise.

There’s also hints of adventure and spirit in my Jumanji-style hideout. A cozy, low-slung hammock hangs in one corner, surrounded by oversized floor cushions in vibrant, checkered patterns. I won’t be playing the floor is lava with the floor cushions this visit, but I’m sure the kids would love to!

In my secret room, I feel a sense of escape and wonder. It’s childlike. My imagination knows no bounds. One minute there’s monkeys swinging through the trees! The next minute I’m getting swept up by a breeze coming through the small, green mosaic style windows. The vibrant colors, natural elements and euphoric feeling makes the hair on the back of my neck sit up. It’s as if all my dulled senses are turned back on. This is my secret room to sleep, read, and hide for a while.

These interviews have been edited for length and clarity.

Creating Your Own Secret Room

No idea was too big or small for these experts. And it shouldn’t be for you, either! Close your eyes and let your imagine run wild. What do you see? Is it an indoor-outdoor living space that blends nature with safety and comfort? Totally possible. Is it a temperature controlled self-care room stocked with spa supplies? Completely doable. Let yourself think of the perfect room that is the most authentic to your needs and wants, just like our experts, and then you can plan how to incorporate similar, affordable elements into your room; your home is your sanctuary, not your neighbors’!