How to Create the Perfect Mahjong Game Room
Although the game originated in China during the 1800’s, Mahjong has been rising in popularity in the states. The game is notoriously complex, while many game enthusiasts liken it to the difficulty of chess. But, with an element of luck and the game's social aspect, more and more are learning how to play (and setting up a Mahjong game room!).
Whether you are an avid player or just starting your “mahjourney,” having a special space for Mahjong at home can change your gaming experience. In our guide, we’ll take you through designing your Mahjong game room, focusing on comfort, functionality, and style.
Photo Credit: House Beautiful
Why You Need a Mahjong Game Room
ICYMI, Mahjong is a game of strategy and skill, often marked by long sessions and intense concentration. Your Mahjong experience will be more enjoyable in an area with minimal distractions.
Mahjong is also social and it's important to be in a relaxed place so people can connect and engage. If you love the game and want to enhance your experience, think about creating a Mahjong space at home.
Step 1: Choosing the Right Location
The first step in creating your Mahjong game room is selecting the optimal location in your home. The key hallmarks are quiet, spacious, and with proper lighting. A living room, sunroom, or spare bedroom can work well as a dedicated Mahjong game room.
Some considerations for choosing the location include:
Space
You want to ensure enough space for a Mahjong table, four chairs, small drink table(s), and storage for your tiles and accessories.
Lighting
Natural light can make your room feel bigger. You might also need extra adjustable lights or table lamps.
Noise Level
Once you begin the game, your tiles will be clacking, and the chitchat will be on, so choose a room that's isolated from the central area of your home.
Photo Credit: @henryandcodesign
Step 2: Invest in a Mahjong Table
Your Mahjong game table will be the centerpiece of your room. Choose a table with enough surface area for your mat, racks, tiles, and dice.
Size
Most standard Mahjong tables are 3x3’ or 40x40.”
Wooden tables can make your room feel more traditional, especially if they are not bright colors. Glass or acrylic tables look modern and sleek. This Jonathan Adler Jacques Game Table blends glamour and simplicity with its clear acrylic frame and brass corners.
Foldable
If your room is multi-purpose, choose a folding table that's easy to store.
Photo Credit: @oliveandhome
Step 3: Add Comfortable Seating
Mahjong sessions can last for hours, so comfort is king when choosing seating for your table. Selecting ergonomic chairs with lumbar support or padded cushions can help keep all players comfortable.
Adjustable Height
Adjustable chairs allow players to customize their seating positions, which is helpful for long periods of sitting.
Mobility
Swivel chairs are an excellent option for moving between the game table, nearby drink tables, and cocktail cart.
Aesthetic
Your chair should complement your game room aesthetic. If you choose functional seating that doesn’t match the space's vibe, add some cushions or small throw pillows that do.
Photo Credit: @meganmolten
Step 4: Purchase Mahjong Accessories
While the tiles are the ultimate focal point of the game, your Mahjong game room wouldn’t be complete without other accessories. Some of our favorite products are:
Acrylic racks & pushers
Add modern elegance to your table with acrylic racks that come in clear and solid white colors. My personal favorite (and part of my collection!)? The Lilac Racks and Pushers - available from Oh My Mahjong.
Mats
No Mahjong table would be complete without a striking, vividly patterned mat. Mahjong mats are designed for gameplay, often with a non-slip back and printed instructions. I love my OMM Camelia mat, but some other great options include:
The bold Saying Game Mat from The Mahjong Line
Trellis Game Mat from Southern Sparrow
Line Finder
Make choosing your line on the National Mahjong League card easier with a line finder.
Photo Credit: @fraicherichmond
Step 5: Get Set Up for Cocktails & Snacks
Since Mahjong is innately social, you want your game room to be equipped with everything you need to be the host with the most.
Bar Cart
We love a bamboo-inspired gold cart that feels vintage yet modern
Drink Tables
Small drink tables are easy to move throughout the room and won’t block access to and from the game table.
Bar Accessories
Add a cute champagne or wine bucket, stir sticks, an art deco decanter, and some highball glasses, and you’re ready to go. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, stock your cart with teas.
Photo Credit: @stylinbrunette
Step 6: Add Proper Lighting for Visibility
Good lighting is critical for playing Mahjong because players need to see the intricate designs on the tiles clearly. Think overhead pendant lights, recessed lighting, or table lamps.
Photo Credit: Pooky
Another recommendation is to add a small light in the center of the game table. Amazon is chock-full of stylish, compact, and elegant wireless lamps, such as this one. Choosing a lamp that emits warm light will help reduce glare and create a cozier ambiance.
Step 7: Add More Ambiance with Decor
Enhance the atmosphere of your Mahjong room with décor that accentuates the style of your game table or reflects the game’s rich heritage. Need inspiration? Instagram is filled with game room eye candy.
Photo Credit: Suzanne Kasler
Need space post-gameplay? Rent Self-Storage.
If your game room is multi-purpose, you may not want to keep your Mahjong table set up year-round. A small 5x10 climate-controlled storage unit can protect your precious game pieces, along with your furniture. If you're looking to store more gaming accessories than just Mahjong (perhaps a pool table or poker table), a larger 10x10 or 10x15 might better suit your needs.
Looking for storage for your game room (or any other room in your home)? Find Storage Star storage near you today! While we might not be able to help you master Mahjong, our team of storage experts can assist with your self-storage needs.
