I Can’t Come in, I’m Claustrophobic

The rise of multifunctional spaces is very much in full swing. Modern housing renovations build with a more open floor plan in mind. Walls can be suffocating, boundaries are limiting, and restricted design limits creativity. Rethink your home to accommodate you, your guests, and your stuff.

Smaller homes commonly have a fused kitchen and dining area. This not only prevents you from having to walk from room-to-room to reach the designated dining area, but also opens up the space and allows for freer movement and communication for you and your guests. If you do have a formal dining room, consider shrinking the “dining” features of the room and add in a workspace area, for example.

As for the living room, investing in a modular sofa is a strategic, savvy way to save space. Often built into modular sofas are footrests, drink holders, charging outlets, and small side tables. If you’re really trying to shave space off your living area, a modular sofa can effectively negate the need for a real coffee table in front of the couch. Think of all the toes you could save from stubbing!

With all that space you’ve now created around your home, you can set up a small home gym or, if you have kids, a playroom that isn’t just for storing toys. In climates with frequent inclement weather or places that are unsafe for children to be outside alone, making room for these areas can ensure peace of mind and prevent you from getting soaked, frostbitten, or overheated getting to the gym.

Ultimately, you want to make sure you’re accurately capturing the vibe of the room you want to create. If, for example, you’re turning your formal dining room into an expanded media room, make sure you balance out the original intention with your idea. Add consoles against elongated dining room walls, place decor where necessary, and don’t block out your light source.