Functional design: The new mantra of modern houses
Whether you are moving to a new place or want to give your house a makeover, decorating and renovating can be a fun project. And even better, it’s loaded with opportunities to reflect your unique style! In case you didn’t get the chance before, now you get to decide what goes where and what you’d like to replace or renew. And the best part? There is no one way to do it. Read on and get inspired by these design ideas and interior design tips that can help transform your house into your dream home.
More Breathing Room
The latest trend of merging two functional spaces is a godsend for everyone involved in an interior designing project. Now, limited space doesn’t have to stifle design choices and you can customize your house based on your personal use. By combining areas, you get larger spaces that lend themselves to multiple uses and, should the need arise, there are simple hacks to break up the space. For example, a single designer panel can smartly partition a common living and dining space.
A Long Shelf Life
Shelves have been around for a long time and we’ve been storing things on them for centuries. They were mostly functional, but that’s not the case anymore. Now, design elements are influencing how shelves are conceived and built, making them a design element in themselves. You can also use freestanding shelves to display your favourite accessories, and move them around to give your interior design a new look. Today, shelves can also be easily hidden from view by incorporating them within panelled walls. These are perfect for spaces that require storage solutions but not necessarily in full view.
Keep it in the Closet
Closets have come a long way from just storing necessities and are getting increasingly adaptable and customisable. You can either buy a ready-made free standing closet that fits your room or have one made especially for you. And if you have a small room adjoining your master bedroom, consider converting it into a functional walk-in closet. After all, who doesn’t love a walk-in closet with loads of space and the extra privacy!
A design concept that is all the rage is ‘found’ closet space which entails creating a closet from an already pre-existing space — such as below a staircase or in a loft. These are less expensive to make and a really clever closet hack.
Turn the Tables
Low-lying furniture is back in vogue, although the concept isn’t entirely new — the Japanese have been using it for centuries and now the world is paying attention. It is relaxed and aesthetically appealing, and helps the space look uncluttered and spacious. Families with young children find them particularly useful as they are easy for the whole family to use.
Modern urban spaces necessitate modular furniture that can double up for other uses. That’s where transformative furniture comes in handy. A bed that can be turned into a sofa, transforming tables, or even folding seating arrangements are ideal for people who want more room in their houses. Multifunctional transforming furniture can be used in your house to ensure that you always have extra room for unexpected guests.
Stick to the Wall
If you are short of space, using walls — the largest space in your house — is a great way to increase storage space. Use a hook or a peg to hang your bags and keys or get creative by hanging a pegboard to organise stationery. You can also fix a tall bookcase or cabinets to the walls to maximize vertical space and make room for additional furniture. Alternatively, you can use the walls for vertical gardening that adds a much-needed green touch, while also helping keep the house cool and reducing pollution.
Contemporary design serves the dual purpose of being both functional as well as highlighting the character of your house. With a plethora of options to choose from, you can use multi-purpose design and modular furniture to make the most of every square foot of your house. And armed with the tips shared above, you are well on your way to designing a space that mirrors your style.