These days, many empty nesters find themselves downsizing. This can create a challenge when it comes to finding space for the items you want to retain. And that’s likely after you’ve parted with many things you don’t need any longer.
Here are strategies you can use if you are going to be living in a smaller home. Taking some time to use these tips will allow you to get more enjoyment out of your space.
Think about your home and answer these questions:
1. What do you want it to be? Do you want your home to be a tranquil oasis within a busy world? Are the colors in your home soothing, or do they shout?
2. What are your main hobbies and activities? What do you need for these activities? For instance, if you have hobbies that you enjoy often, use storage containers for them that can be easily opened or put away. If it’s a lot of trouble to access your hobbies, you either will not spend the time on it or else might be tempted to leave it out, creating a cluttered environment.
3. Who will be using the space? How many people will be living there? What ages? Every person needs to have an area that is their own. Whether it ís a unique chair, couch, desk, or a section of a room, everyone needs their space. If you are planning to do exercise videos, you will need room to move around in front of the TV!
4. What about your things? It is easy for a space to become very messy if items do not have a place. A filing cabinet is a must for many people, and it is a smart place to store all of your papers that most of us don’t know what to do with!
5. How much furniture do you need to create your ideal space? Too much furniture often makes a room feel crowded. Of course, the bare essentials are a couch and chair, a table and chairs for eating, a bed, and a place for your clothing. After that, think about what you need or don’t need. Will you actually use that computer desk, or would you rather lounge on the couch with your laptop?
6. How much traffic flow will you have? You want to be able to walk anywhere in the room without bumping into furniture. Try drawing furniture placement on paper as a first step.
7. What is your focal point? What do you ideally want to see when your first walk in the room? If you have beautiful windows with great lighting, are you emphasizing it? Most of us feel brighter in the sunshine.
8. How about order and organization? Do you bring items home with you every day, such as mail or sports equipment? Where will you put it? A large container near the front door is a great place to drop mail until you go through it later.
The experience of an interior designer can help you implement efficiency that far exceeds the investment you’ll make. This will help you to create a space in line with your vision that will serve your needs for many years.
