Mastering Space Utilization: The Key to Design and Functionality
When updating the design of your home, it's crucial to begin by asking yourself a very important question, 'How do I use this space?' Whether it's a dedicated area for kids, formal entertaining, or a multifunctional space, understanding how you use the space and its connection to the rest of your home will determine your next design steps.
Berkley 6 Plex
To maximize functionality in a compact space, we installed an island on casters to easily “roll” into position for chopping and meal prep. Additionally, we made the most of the sloped ceiling by incorporating the back side of the stairs with added storage and a convenient staging area for the fridge. Choosing light colors and great wall lighting made the space feel more open and allowed clients to add color through art and textiles.
A few ideas to keep in mind when you tackle your space:
DEFINE THE FUNCTION OF THE SPACE and prioritize how much of the room you want to dedicate to each of its functions and users (kids, dogs, office, storage, or formal entertaining to name a few).
IDENTIFY WHO USES THE ROOM. Are you a household with kids and pets, or is it an adults-only zone? This distinction will significantly influence your choices, from selecting more durable fabrics for high-traffic areas to planning storage space and furniture. Speaking of furniture, remember that scale is key. Opt for furniture that's easy to move and won't disrupt the flow or block pathways.
IDENTIFY THE VIBE of the space which is set by our biggest influencer: LIGHT. Do you have natural light and how much artificial light do you need to supplement for daytime? What is necessary for nighttime according to how you're using the space? For a dining table you can supplement with candlelight, whereas in the office or kitchen, task lighting is key. Light is directly impacted by more than just windows and an overhead light. The paint in the room might create a lighter or darker feel. If you desire dark-painted walls you have to supplement with appropriate lighting.
SET YOUR BUDGET! Storage solutions, paint, lighting, and furniture add up quickly. Prioritize what furniture you could invest in that would have a dual purpose. For example, a coffee table with storage, or a TV that can act as art and contribute to the aesthetic of the space.
Sweet Flag Living Room
Did you realize the art is also a TV? This cabin living room can be a great space for hosting and playing games and can be the perfect setting for a holiday movie or Sunday football. This was definitely worth the investment!
Reminder: Keep in mind the room’s relationship to the rest of your home. If you have an office that has site lines to a dining room, you might consider a decorative screen to close off space when you're entertaining.
Treehouse Dining Room
This floating built in is a great example of multifunctional design. It separates the dining room from a walkway whilst providing storage in the cabinets for kids’ art supplies AND a styling moment on the shelf. What’s more, it blocks the sight line into the office to help keep the office function uninterrupted by entertaining.
THE MAIN TAKEAWAY: planning is everything when you want to maximize your spaces. Not everyone has the luxury of having a movie theater room, workout room, dedicated office, meditation room, etc. You get the point. Your design should reflect YOUR lifestyle and support it.
Have more space utilization questions? Message us @tealandscott on Instagram!
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