Let's Make Your Home Function First!
It's time to set the record straight. When it comes to interior design, beauty and function are not mutually exclusive! Think of it like this: your home's function is the foundation that allows your design to shine. A home that doesn't function well is a design disaster waiting to happen.
So, how do you make sure your home is functional? Here are some of my tried and true functional design tips that will allow your style choices to really shine!
How to Design a Well-Functioning Home
Use Your Awkward Spaces
Functional design is all about taking advantage of every nook and cranny in your home. Unused spaces tend to attract clutter, so putting them to good use is important.
That empty corner could be a fantastic spot for a cozy reading chair and side table. The awkward space in your kitchen could be the perfect home for a rolling island or coffee bar. And that weird little alcove in your bathroom? It could be the ideal place for some open shelving to store extra towels and toiletries.
Get Creative With Storage
I've found it helpful to strategize your storage needs around the items that actually need storing. Start by making a list of the things you need to store, and then brainstorm creative ways to do so.
Finding that perfect space for an item to call home might mean using some unconventional storage methods like wall-mounted baskets or under-the-bed drawers, but that's part of the fun!
Create the Perfect Layout
The layout of your home can make a significant impact on its overall functionality. If you're unhappy with how your space is currently laid out, don't be afraid to make a change! Get a clear picture of what changes you need to make by pinpointing the functional issues in your home.
Do you need more counter space in the kitchen? Does your living room feel too cramped? Is it hard to find a place to put your shoes when you walk in the door? Once you've solidified your must-haves, you can start planning a new and improved layout.
Make Your Rooms Work Harder For You
There's no reason your home can't be working double duty! If you're short on space, look for ways to make your rooms work harder for you. For example, a home office could double as a guest room, or that three feet of unused space in your bathroom could be the perfect spot for a small cabinet to store extra toiletries, towels, linens, and more!
Create Balance with Your Lighting
The lighting in your space helps set the tone and atmosphere, so it's essential to get it just right. A well-lit room will feel cozy and inviting, while a poorly lit room can feel dark and dreary. Lighting is key to helping you get the most out of your space, and that goes for both function and enjoyment.
Be sure to take advantage of both natural and artificial lighting. However, too much of either can throw off the ambiance as well. Use blinds, shades, or curtains to control the amount of light that comes into a room, and add lamps or overhead lighting to help brighten up a space.