Flexibility — the ability to be easily modified — is the key to existing in today’s hectic world. Being able to change course when necessary allows us to make the most of our resources (whether few or many), which, in turn, helps generate a sense of security that empowers us to persevere no matter our circumstances. Flexibility isn’t just a psychological trait to cultivate, however. It’s an important quality to consider when planning a physical living space, as well. In the 21st century, our homes are more than just a place to lay our heads at night. In many instances, they are also the places we relax, entertain and even work. Take a look at these three tips for creating multifunctional spaces that provide optimum flexibility so that your home works in the best way for your own specific needs:
But First, What is a Multifunctional Space?
For much of history, homes were built with rooms dedicated to a specific purpose; there was a kitchen for cooking, a dining room for eating, a living room for socializing, a bathroom for cleaning, a bedroom for sleeping and so on. As time has progressed and populations have grown, though, space has become harder to obtain. In urban areas, especially, homes are usually smaller, making it critical for people to become creative in the ways they utilize the space they do have so they can still enjoy all aspects of their lives comfortably. A multifunctional space is simply a room or area of the home that serves more than one purpose.
How to Make Multifunctional Spaces
Whether you have a large or small home, multifunctional spaces optimize the physical layout of a house so that you and your guests are able to move about and live within the space in the most convenient way possible. Here are some suggestions for designing truly practical multifunctional spaces:
Combine Functions
Combining the purpose of one room with that of another is the most obvious way to create a multifunctional space. Certain rooms, in particular, serve related functions that make sharing space a no-brainer. Kitchens and dining rooms, for example. Some homes even have multifunctional spaces to accommodate sleeping and bathing! Think about how you can consolidate the roles of two separate rooms into one and, thus, free up space for other purposes or establish room for something you don’t already have!
Create Zones
While you can certainly add a desk to a bedroom and call it a dual-use space, there is a way to create a specialty room that looks a lot less like a mishmash of furniture and a lot more like an intentional design. It’s called intention. Consider your needs and your resources and then set about melding the two so that they enhance each other (and don’t distract). If you need an office but only have one additional bedroom, add a desk to it in a way that sets it apart from the rest of the room. Place the desk on a rug or along a far wall with a framed degree placed above it. Define each purpose of the room with carefully chosen — and complementary — accents to highlight the separate purposes of the room.
Use Furniture Wisely
Of course, you can also physically delineate specific areas of a room with furniture. Use bookcases, screens, curtains, plants, a couch or other accents and accessories to palpably (not just visually) divide a room into separate areas. If you choose an open-backed shelf or screen, you can create a whole new room and still let in light without sacrificing any actual square footage!
Ready to Learn More?
Creating multifunctional spaces is easy with a little forethought; professional designers can help. If you need assistance, please contact our team at Capitol Kitchen and Bath. We can help you evaluate your existing space and design a plan for multifunctional spaces that matches your needs, as well as conforms to your budget!