FORM BEFORE FUNCTION
Yesterday I saw a new client who has made a great start on remodelling their home with a large side and back extension.
The main problem facing them now is how to maximise the space that they've created to achieve a great family home and ultimate magazine glamour.
Many people wade straight in and start decorating their new homes without looking at how the space is actually going to be used. They're more focused on the form rather than the function!
This can lead to many problems later on with poor placement of radiators, light fittings, switches and sockets. It can also lead to a sense of the space 'not working' because furniture is subsequently positioned in the wrong place.
To give you an example, we recommended to one of clients that they swap the dining room with the lounge so that the lounge was then next to the inter-connecting playroom. This meant that the mother could sit in the lounge with friends whilst still being able to watch the children in the playroom.
It's not only important to review the function of each room when you move into a new home, but also after a few years when the children have grown up or your priorities have changed. Life evolves and your home should grow and change with you.
So, how do you review function?
Firstly, for each room, you need to consider all of the tasks that are going to take place in the space, eg: reading, and TV/relaxing.
Secondly, consider how you can split or 'zone' the room in separate areas for each task, eg: reading near the window and relaxing in the centre of the room.
Thirdly, consider the furniture best suited for each task, eg: Single chair + lamp for reading plus sofa and footstool for relaxing.
Fourthly, place the furniture.
Your room should now not only look great but also be comfortable and easy to live in. Of course, if you need a little more help and advice then just give us call.
GWENDOLINE
CREATIVE INTERIOR DESIGNER
tel: 07841 519802
No comments:
Post a Comment