Bringing people together can be a challenge, even for the best of hosts. That might be why game rooms—whether for cards, billiards, or other diversions—have stood the test of time, even in the era of ever-distracting smartphones. Whether it’s as simple as an alcove with a card table and chairs or as elaborate as an at-home bowling alley, these inviting spaces make it easy to bridge gaps between guests.
Thinking of designing your own? Look no further. Below we’ve chosen 23 of our favorite game rooms from the AD archive. Game on!
Antiques abound
This game room means business, with two card tables illuminated by overhead lamps. (The tabletop porcelain swans are our favorite details, though.) It’s only fitting for Madeleine Castaing, the legendary French decorator whose home was photographed for AD in 1977. Her unique eye for antiques is what set her apart as a decorator—and those unique finds also make this game room stand out from the rest.