Functionality in the home and design go hand in hand. It is important to design your space in the way that will best support your needs and everyday activities in the home. Functional design can look a lot of different ways depending on what your life looks like! Here are five tips that might help you improve the functional design of your home:
1. Maximize Space with Multi-Functional Furniture
This tip is especially important if your home is lacking in square footage or storage space! Furniture pieces like storage ottomans, sofa beds, or an entryway table/shoe storage rack are all amazing, space-saving options! Picking items like this can sometimes be overwhelming because it can be tricky to find options that still look clean and elegant. The items below are all beautiful, affordable, and functional options!
2. Create Zones Within Open Floorplans
With the open concept floorplan that is so popular these days, it can be tricky and overwhelming to take one big room and try to make it feel like many different spaces. Using elements like area rugs and strategic furniture placement are key factors in creating zones within an open area. Putting a large area rug in both the living room AND the dining room is your best option to break up the floor space and create unofficial boundaries. For living rooms, a good rule of thumb to keep in mind is that the front legs of all of your furniture pieces should be on the rug. As far as dining tables go, you want the front and back legs of your chairs to be on the rug when in the pulled-out position. These two small things will make a world of difference in how big and empty your space may feel.
3. Optimize Storage Solutions
Utilizing every opportunity for concealed storage in your home is a MUST. Elements like built-in cabinetry, storage closets, or under-the-bed storage are extremely important for reducing the amount of clutter that is out in the open. A clean, clutter-free space will boost your mental health and productivity exponentially. Read more about that here! Additionally, keep your important or commonly used items in easily accessible spots. This will help you save some time and frustration each day!
4. Incorporate Smart Technology in Your Home
The world of Smart Home technology is endless and can feel confusing, but it can also be extremely helpful! Smart TVs, smart assistant devices like Alexa, smart security systems, smart lights, and so much more can make your life much easier. These devices will take some of the load off your back, as well as make your home feel more secure. Many of these devices are designed to be user-friendly and convenient. Check out this article to learn what this year’s best Smart Home devices are!
5. Prioritize Natural Light and Ventilation
Natural light is arguably the best feature a home can have. Big windows are always a plus in my book! If you don’t have tons of natural light though, that’s okay too! Work with what you have and maximize the light that you have access to. My recommendation is floor-to-ceiling sheer drapery panels paired with a Roman shade to be used for privacy at night… which would look a little something like the photo below. Additionally, good ventilation and airflow are important! Having air circulation regularly will help your home from getting that “stale” feeling. I also recommend having your windows open whenever it is possible. Fresh air circulating through your home is one of the best ways to make your home feel fresh and cozy!
P.S. Want to learn more? Check out my other posts here!
3 Responses
Love the furniture ideas that double as storage!
I love having a storage ottoman that can be used as a multipurpose item. Thanks for sharing!
The cream colors along with prioritizing of natural light is such a great way to make a space seem bigger than it actually is! This is a beautiful set up !