What is the name of the main reception area that was originally the main bedroom but later became an office in Roman homes?

The main reception area that was originally the main bedroom and later transformed into an office in Roman homes is called the Tablinum. This space served as a significant area within a Roman domus, functioning as a combination of a private and public space. The Tablinum was typically located adjacent to the atrium and was often used by the head of the household to conduct business, receive guests, and manage family affairs, reflecting its dual purpose.

The name itself signifies its importance, as it was central to the domestic and social life of the household. Its layout usually provided a direct view of the atrium, emphasizing its role in hosting and receiving visitors. In contrast, the other terms refer to different structures or functions in Roman architecture, making them irrelevant to the function of the Tablinum. The Tabularium, for instance, refers specifically to the state archive in Rome, while a Thermopolium is a place for buying hot food and drinks. An Atrium, the central open space of a Roman house, serves a different purpose as a communal area used for welcoming guests, rather than functioning as the dedicated office space embodied by the Tablinum.