All of my client projects are different but one of the things that many of them have in common is the desire to maximize every square inch of space. Regardless of the size of our home, a well designed space will always give you the most functionality. It can feel larger, more open and usable when it’s been properly designed.
When my clients understand how important it is to make space planning a priority we can really maximize the layout and create a custom home. If you’re concerned that this is only for large renovations, don’t worry. Any renovation, regardless of size, can benefit from some attention to the details of space planning. Let’s talk about how to maximize space in your own small renovation.
1/ LOOK AT THE ENTIRE FLOOR PLAN FIRST
One of the best ways to maximize a space’s functionality is to review the placement of walls. Have they been placed in the ideal position so that each room is functioning at its best? The best time to consider this is when you’re embarking on a renovation. Yes, it’s messy but do it now while your house is under construction.
When I create design options for clients it often becomes crystal clear how moving a wall will change the feeling and flow of more than just a single room. The way we walk through the entire home can be impacted by the removal or new placement of even a single wall.
Don’t assume that the layout of your home is the best design. Builders often don’t spend time on maximizing space but instead focus on ease in their build. There is often a better design than what you’re currently living with so explore the options.
2/ QUESTION EACH ROOM AND ITS USE
If you’ve ever lived in a home with that one room that just doesn’t make any sense this could be a good candidate for an overhaul. Sometimes a small space was carved out for the previous homeowner who had a specific need.
For instance, that awkward, small main floor space that has been designated as an office might not serve the needs of your family. What could this room become that would serve you better? Maybe it could function really well as a mudroom with just the addition of an exterior door and a bit of millwork design. That type of decision can bring lots of benefit to you without adding a tremendous amount of work or cost.
If you’re worried about going overboard in your renovation, read this post. I’ve shared my best tips for achieving a high end look on a budget.
3/ LOOK FOR CREATIVE WAYS TO ADD STORAGE
If there’s one thing that almost all of my clients have in common it’s that they want more storage in their space. If you can prioritize this during the planning phase, it’s easy and much less expensive to build creative storage solutions.
Yes, there are furniture pieces that can function as storage but built-in storage is cleaner, more efficient in terms of space and gives your home a custom look. We don’t always have the wall space for a large piece of furniture. A great design will look for areas where even small amounts of storage can be incorporated into the current floor plan.
4/ DON’T FORGET ABOUT VERTICAL SPACE
We so often overlook the potential of the vertical space in a room. From bookshelves to cabinetry, consider how you can use the space on your wall all the way up to the ceiling.
We can’t make the footprint of a home larger during a renovation but we can definitely take advantage of every square inch you have. The benefit of building vertical storage is that you’re taking advantage of those walls that are often left bare. It can also add a ton of visual appeal to your room.
5/ CONSIDER DUAL PURPOSE AREAS
Sometimes we have dedicated an entire room to one function and it can be hurting the overall usage of the home. Always consider whether a single room can be better designed to accommodate more than one use.
For example, a home office that is only used a day or two per week could also be used as a home gym. A spare bedroom that rarely gets used could be utllized better by adding a Murphy bed or pull-out sofa and allowing the room to function as a den or family room the rest of the time.
If your home is suddenly feeling small but you don’t want to move, pay attention to all the spaces in your home, even the ones that you think are fully maximized. Being creative can change the way you live in your space.
6/ CONSIDER THE DOORS
Door placement is another one of those things that builders don’t always consider thoroughly but can cause issues and frustration on a daily basis.
There are times when a door swings into a room in a way that cuts the space at an awkward angle. I often see problems with walkways and even with awkward furniture placement because of the way a door opens into a room.
If this sounds like your home, there are solutions. Consider replacing your doors with pocket doors. This can be done during your renovation without causing too much disturbance to your life. The benefit you’ll experience afterwards will absolutely make the mess seem worthwhile.
This client project required careful attention when considering the doors on the shower. Instead of the standard practice of having the door swing into the shower we designed the door to be on a sliding track. This avoids that swing that can block our access.
7/ LOOK FOR SPACE OPPORTUNITIES EVERYWHERE
One of the most overlooked areas in a home is under the stairs. Often, it’s just been drywalled but by removing that you can access a space that becomes additional storage.
You can build open shelving and use this as a small bookshelf or display area. I’ve also seen small desks built into this area. For storage that you don’t want on display just add a door.
Look around your entire home with the same view to find additional space. We tend to have numerous spots in our homes that are just dead areas. With a bit of creativity we can turn it into usable space.
If you’re planning a renovation for 2024, reach out to me. I’d love to discuss how I can help you design the perfectly maximized space for your home.
