Parul Mittal shares five ways of getting the best out of a small home, making the place feel larger, while simultaneously maintaining the style quotient
The pandemic re-instated the charm of multifunctional spaces and created a niche for this design trend. The role of a home has evolved over the last few years, as not only do we live here — but work, exercise, and even holiday in them. Basically, today our whole life is revolving around our four walls and, therefore, needs to be utilised thoughtfully based on requirements, wants and desires. However, the real issue lies in fitting everything you need in a small space; an even bigger challenge is in making it look visually appealing.
Here are five ways of getting the best out of a small home making your space feel larger while simultaneously maintaining the style quotient.
Get rid of clutter
When living in a small room, it is advised to start by keeping the clutter in mind. Whether you have too many interior elements or everything is just placed with no space for breathing, it’s time for some clean-up. First, you must eliminate the clutter you already have.
Start by a mindful mapping of the things you need and things you should let go of. This will help you analyse the space in your room. There are times when decluttering and the pressure of maintaining aesthetics confuse you. Here, we suggest opting for a neutral yet simple interior look. For instance, you can use wooden wall cabinets for storage or for showcasing your ancient pieces. Choosing a woodgrain pattern and a lighter shade of brown will complement soft to warm colour tones. Lastly, introduce wall planters or floral pattern paintings to complete the look.
Double up the kitchen and dining area
A kitchen is more than just a cooking area because it doubles up as a lively dining room with the aroma of dishes cooked and made with love. Conquer the art of using this space cleverly by combining the countertop and eating space by placing two or three chairs around it. Yes, it is that simple, and your kitchen-cum-dining space is ready. However, if you are wondering which colours and interiors to choose for your space, think no further. A black, grey, and white colour palette is timeless yet fearless.
When natural wooden tones are added to any space, it flawlessly adds contrast and personality to a monochromatic theme. Further, illuminate your kitchen with hanging cylindrical lights and wall bulbs for a rejuvenating look and feel of the space.
Make the most of your bedroom
We all want our bedrooms to be a refuge from the world and a place where you renew in the evening and wake up rejuvenated in the morning. Since our life revolves so much around our bedrooms, these often end up occupying almost all your daily essentials. While decluttering helps to maximise the space, but we suggest mindfully organising stuff in your bedroom. Store out-of-season clothing in under-bed storage containers and invest in closet organisers that separate types of clothes, accessories, shoes and more.
Every closet can use functional organising. Further, remember that furniture with curves takes up valuable space, so keep your choices sleek with straight lines. If you need the storage space that large furniture provides, tall, slim pieces are the way to go.
Redesign corners as reading nooks
To experience the sights and sounds of nature, what place could be more perfect than your balcony or window area? And yes, you don’t need to make any extra space for your reading or rejuvenating corner. This place can also play multiple roles as your workplace, hangout zone, kids play area and evening family get-togethers space. With the ongoing showers of monsoon season, opt for easy-maintenance decorative wood veneers which can be used on your walls and spruce these up with chic décor pieces. For instance, you can go for metallic photo frames to achieve a visual flamboyance. Last, place an old mattress along with multi-coloured cushions surrounded with mini planters that can instantly enliven everyone’s mood.
A simple way to introduce home office
A simple yet clean workstation paves the way for a peaceful mind and a calm soul which hold the utmost priority amid the pandemic. Moreover, it is important to maintain personal and environmental hygiene to keep oneself safe from bacteria and viruses. Well, worry not, as there are surfaces that can help you do that. Case in point, laminates possessing anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties can be used on walls or tabletops. There are many in the market that make for a hygienic and germ-free home for you and your family.
To achieve an effortless workstation, the key is to eliminate the clutter and have some breathing space. Arrange essential work stationery and gadgets on your desk to keep the space neat. You can also convert your living or dining space into your workstation. This minimal workspace will help you focus while working at an optimum speed to achieve a work-life balance even while working from home.
(The writer is the director of Greenlam Industries Ltd.)