You walk into a home, and you immediately have a feeling about it. Typically, we attribute that feeling to the beauty of the home. However, the layout of the home is just as important. Design Tips for a Well-Planned Home explores areas to think about if you are building a new home or renovating your current one.
Functionality
The first step requires you to identify how the space is to be utilized. Set your expectations of the functionality of the space by asking yourself some questions like…Does the space need to be larger to accommodate a growing family? Can you steal space from another room? Are there too many angles? Is there a wall between rooms that is hindering flow? … It’s important to get a clear picture of what’s working and what is not so that you can improve the functionality of the layout in your space.
The Pragmatic Approach
Here you want to think about what will make doing chores like laundry, washing the dog, or containing all the backpacks, shoes, etc. easier for you. This photo shows what our cabinetry partner, Wellborn Cabinets, can do to enhance a laundry/dog washing area.
Here’s your opportunity to be more pragmatic in your design approach and still bring in the pretty. How about making your laundry room a mud room as well? Or if that’s not possible, stack your washer and dryer to free up space for a built-in with storage, dog wash, or shelving.
Maximize Capabilities Of A Space
If you take away one thing from this article, it is to maximize your space to the fullest. This includes finding purpose for an odd or clumsy space. Whether you are building a home or renovating it, plan not only for the current use of the space but also plan for future needs. Do you want a pool bathroom since you’ll be adding a pool in a few years? How about turning a bedroom into a flex room or TV room?
The plan should include storage and storage…and did I mention storage? Today’s homes are lacking in this regard so the more storage you can include in your plans, the cleaner and tidier the space will stay.
When you choose the materials for your project, think long-term. Will the materials stand the test of time? Are they too trendy? Do they make sense for the space? Of course, there are spaces like a bar area or powder room where you can be more edgy. In fact, you should step out of your comfort zone in these spaces but overall, choose materials that are durable and practical.
Light It Up
Lighting is so important to the overall feel of a space. Use the room’s natural lighting to help you determine how much artificial light is needed. This method helps you to keep the balance between the two lighting sources at a place where the room’s atmosphere is cozy and comfortable and not too bright and sterile or too dark and gloomy.
The Impact of Color
As lighting adds ambiance to a room, color adds aura. Color evokes a feeling when you walk into a room. Does the space make you feel comfortable and relaxed, or does it scream at you?
There are thousands of color choices, which makes it that much harder to narrow down. Think about how you want the space to feel and then choose a neutral color that evokes that feeling and use it as your primary color. Check out Sherwin-Williams Colormix 2024 for inspiration. Next, add a secondary or even a tertiary color using home accents and artwork that tie everything together in peace and harmony.
Happy Home
In the end, it’s what makes you happy that should be incorporated into your new build or renovation. Keep these Design Tips for a Well-Planned Home in mind as you embark on your design journey. Whether you decide to renovate an existing home or build a new one, these tips will help you to be more confident in the decision-making process.
Of course, if you need expert advice, reach out to us at Donna Mancini Interiors for help bringing your vision to reality. Our Turnkey Full-Service Design provides you with the peace-of-mind to know the project will be managed from concept to completion.