MAKE THE MOST OF WHAT YOU HAVE: INTENTIONAL DESIGN FOR BUSY LIVES
When rethinking the interior of a property, do you think ‘out with the old, in with the new’? Are you planning to remove a stud wall or add an extension to create more space and better flow? From personal experience, I can tell you that your budget may curb some of those home aspirations. If so, this article offers suggestions on how to make the most of what you have.
Our House Renovation Plans
When we bought our home, it had an authentic 1930s interior. That’s because very little work had been undertaken on the property for decades. We loved the character of the building, but knew it was time for an upgrade.
We made plans for a large rear extension, along with other essential renovations and redecoration. In addition, we needed new furniture, as items from our previous house were too large for this property. Then, the quotes started coming in, and they far exceeded our calculations. Material and labour shortages had pushed up costs, so we needed a rethink.
Essential works took priority, so the extension plans were shelved. It was time to go back to the drawing board and make the most of what we had. I can be honest and say that we had concerns that the house would be too small for a family of four. However, our revisions worked and we’ve now discovered the benefits of living in a small house.
What is Intentional Design?
Intentional design is creating an interior that goes beyond what looks good. It’s ensuring that a home interior is functional and aligns with your lifestyle and your values. Each design decision is purposeful and considers ways to ease home life.
Key to the success of intentional interior design is understanding how the home is currently used and how it is likely to be used in the future. It’s exploring how people and pets move through and gather in the spaces. In every home, some rooms are used more than others. So there is often scope to increase movement through underused spaces and provide a space for everything in well-used areas.
When the interior is intentionally designed, many of the irritations of daily life are ironed out. Equally, the items you prioritise take centre stage. This makes for more harmonious and efficient living, which best reflects your personality. As a result, it feels great to be at home.
Optimising Space
A study conducted by Talk Talk* found that 15% of the space in an average UK home is unused. So, where are those black holes? What rooms do you rarely step foot in, and what cupboards haven’t you opened in a while? These present an opportunity for change that optimises every space in the property.
Equally, considerable storage space is used to keep hold of items that we no longer need or use. So, it is useful to declutter. We had to part with so many belongings when we moved and it was a wrench at times. Yet, we’ve barely given a second thought to any of the things we donated or sold. Now we enjoy the items that are highly valued.
Optimising space involves a rethink of storage spaces and room layouts. This is based on your household needs, habits and lifestyle. When done well, it increases efficiency and aesthetics. What’s more, with systems in place, it becomes easier to maintain the look and flow for a more enjoyable home life experience.
Adaptable Room Use and Layout
One thing I’ve noted in design consultations is that it’s easy to be hindered by preconceptions about the purpose of each room. For example, thinking that bedrooms must be upstairs or that this space has always been the dining area. Instead, I encourage clients to adopt a user-centred mindset as we map out the best use of spaces. What’s more, we discuss practical ways that the spaces can be adapted as needs change.
In our case, we needed three bedrooms, but there were only two upstairs, so we transformed a downstairs room into my daughter’s bedroom. Then, when she moved out, it made sense to transform the space into my home office. However, we still have a sofa bed for when she comes to stay.
Reuse Furniture and Fittings
Fresh interior design doesn’t mean replacing all of your furniture and fittings. That is often an unnecessary expense.
On most interior design projects, I find items in the home that are the ideal shape, style and fit for a different space. Before I buy anything new, I check what is available. In some cases, sanding and coating with oil or paint is all it takes to give a piece of furniture a new lease of life. Equally, replacing handles or other fittings can be an effective way of updating items to the new style.
The more you can reuse, the further your budget will go. This might allow you to invest in an item of timeless design.
Make the Most Before Adding More
In summary, when you make the most of what you have, you may find that you don’t need more space or more belongings. Sometimes, the opposite is what we need for a comfortable, stylish and efficient home life.
If you are struggling to see the potential in your home, contact me to arrange an interior design advice call or a design consultation.