When it comes to space planning, most homeowners just place their items where they think they will fit best, even if it doesn’t work for them.
Once a piece is in place, it usually stays there for years.
As a designer, the moment I walk into a space I know whether the room is working for my clients or not. When I suggest that we move furniture around and edit pieces, I see the panic set in.
Homeowners tell me:
- They know that their room is not set up properly
- They have no idea what to put where
- They don’t know how to edit what they have.
- They have no idea what to do to fix it!
- They feel totally frustrated.
Perhaps you have been feeling this way as well. I hope that the tips in this column will help you make the best of space planning in your home.
Many homes have their furniture up against walls, facing the fireplace, or too much furniture, making it difficult to enjoy the space.
Treasured family pieces can have sentimental value, more than being functional or being liked. Do you really need it in your space?
Here are some tips to help you along your space planning journey:
- Take a good look at everything you have
- It might be a good time to sell, donate or giveaway pieces if you are finding things too crowded.
- Be open minded! Can a piece be used for a different purpose in a different space? Example: Use a dresser as a TV stand.
- Don’t be afraid to move things around the room – try different variations – you may surprise yourself!
Design Tips:
- Don’t be afraid to bring chairs away from the walls, they can “sit” in space. You can angle chairs as well to give movement to your room.
- Rooms can be multi-purpose. A music room and reading room? Yes, it can happen. (see the photo of music room/reading room)
- Have an unused space? Create a usable space where there was none (see the photo of my front entrance with new reading area)
- Don’t forget to infuse your personality and the pieces you love into your space. (see the picture of my living room)
I hope that you will look at your rooms a bit differently.
Perhaps it is time for you to change it up a bit!
Have fun,
Sue
Submitted photos
