When we design a living space, we often put priority on the way it looks. It needs to look welcoming, with plenty of creature comforts all around. It needs to feel like the kind of place you can be at ease and enjoy your time.
We all have an idea of what that looks like. But what it looks like and how it functions are two different things. And you’ll know when comfortable and functional aren’t quite meshing when you run into problems like these.
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Is it Cluttered All the Time?
If you tidy up without thinking about the habits of those who live in the house, the clutter is always going to return. It’s a losing game, where you’ll just get more and more annoyed about shoes appearing on the stairs or laundry being left on bedroom floors.
Clutter piles up because we want things close by when we need them! You should organize and tidy your home with this in mind. Sick of moving shoes? Put a shoe rack next to the stairs and/or by the front door. Sick of clearing up dirty washing? Make sure everyone has a laundry basket in their room!
Is it Energy Efficient?
Energy efficiency comes in many shapes and sizes. It can get a bit difficult to juggle, seeing as everyone has a different opinion on the best appliances to buy or the best light bulbs to use.
Let’s make it a bit simpler. The main thing to remember is that efficiency equals low usage. And not your usage – no one would feel their home was functioning if they could only turn the oven on for 20 minutes per day.
So what should you do? Shop with energy efficiency ratings in mind, and start making your own energy.
New research on how homeowners are thinking about solar energy indicates that most people see solar panels as a pure benefit, that help a home to both look good and function better. Plus, you get to save money on your energy bills too.
Is There Enough Working Space?
Homes are meant to be comfortable, relaxing spaces to be in. Most people will design their homes with this principle at the forefront. But there should also be space for a table or desk, where you can focus and get to work too.
If you have to set up a flimsy foldable table or only have the sofa to sit on, you’re not going to feel all that productive when something needs doing.
And if you have more physical hobbies outside of watching TV or using your phone, hard surface space is a must! Where else could you put a jigsaw or set up an artist’s station?
Make your home a bit more multifunctional by leaving space in the floor plan for a mini office, no matter where you end up fitting it!
Making your home look good is only half the solution. Make sure it’s functional with your needs too!
This is a contributed post.
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