So the kids have flown the coop and you’re facing an empty home with endless possibilities…have you panicked yet? Well, you should embrace this time of new beginnings and realize this is the age of YOU! You and your spouse likely spent most of your adult lives caring for your children and now that you’ve done a great job raising them and they’re on their own, it’s time to concentrate on making your living space yours again. Check out these popular project ideas for empty nesters.

Man (or Woman!) Cave

A basement remodel is always a popular place to start customizing. That’s because this is likely one of the last spots your high schoolers lived in before they embarked on their college journey. Now, this space is in dire need of an adult makeover, but don’t just stop with a fresh coat of paint. Transform the space into a place of solace and entertainment where you can retreat either alone to watch TV at night or to entertain friends at holiday parties. Remember parties?? Add a bathroom, include new audio and video wiring, bump out a wall to extend a craft room or workshop, put in a wet bar, and add in some windows for natural light.

Master Bath

Reclaim your master bath by truly making it yours again. Bump out a wall to make room for extra closet space, a vanity or even a walk-in steam shower. Add his and her sinks so no one’s cramped anymore. Because your new bathroom should be light, airy and uplifting, consider neutrals, light blues and yellows here, with larger, decorative windows for natural light, heated floors and towel racks, and maybe a hot tub to wind down after a stressful day.

The Kitchen

The kitchen is also a popular remodeling project for empty nesters because now you actually have time to cook and bake! It’s time to update the flow and style of your kitchen, making it a space where you can work, prep, clean, store and eat easily without having to deal with awkward layouts. Expand your counter space and include a natural stone counter top for beauty and easy cleaning, add a double sink, update to smart stainless steel appliances and add strategic task lighting throughout the area.

The Master Bedroom

Your master bedroom is your domain, your retreat after a long day, your space to unwind. It should be decorated with warm tones that relax you, but really there are no limits here. If you love spas, convert this space into a reading and relaxing room, complete with soft music, dim lighting, aromatherapy, slate tile flooring, water features, chaise lounges and live plants, suggests Bob Vila. If more space is what you’re after, consider adding a walk-in cedar closet, or break through the wall to the next unused bedroom and make an alcove for reading by a window, a craft room, a game room or something else entirely.

The good news is, there are no rules when it comes to empty nester home remodeling projects. Just don’t go too crazy converting every room in the house. Before you know it, your kids will be back, and they’ll bring your grandkids!