Space is at a premium in just about everyone’s home. It seems like a waste when you have a home with rooms that don’t get used, because of their ‘purpose’. Formal living and dining rooms are a good example of spaces that used to be important, but are less so with today’s lifestyle. A popular request from our clients is to help evolve a space to better fit their current lifestyle. For example, a family home can evolve once kids have grown up and move out of the house. How can you update a former playroom or homework room?
Rethinking or evolving a formal dining room is another popular request. Many new homes are open concept; however, most homes still have a designated formal dining space even though a family may only use it a few times a year. In fact, we are currently in the process of evolving a formal dining room into a sleek media room for a family with teenagers. It will be a fun project to share with you. Until then, today’s blog features some of our favorite evolved spaces and ideas of how you can rethink a space in your home.
Dining Room with a Reading Nook/Library
In this particular home (for a couple downsizing into retirement), the rooms were smaller and the layout was efficient. Rather than waste valuable space on a formal dining room, we gave the space multipurpose. The room has a dining table so it can be used for formal dining when needed. We also incorporated a cozy banquette and matching shelves for books in the room. Rather than a space that is used once or twice a year, the homeowners can enjoy the space anytime they need a cozy reading nook. This evolved space is now the perfect retreat for the retired homeowners!
Family Room to Wine Room
In this project our clients wanted the space directly across from their dining room (the ‘formal living’ room) to become a place to entertain guests. They never used the space and wanted to change that. The empty room right off the entry evolved into a casual space to drink wine, lounge, and catch-up with friends. The space certainly feels upgraded and tailored to our clients new life as empty-nesters.
Den to Play Station & Media Room
If your home does not have enough rooms for a designated to a ‘playroom’, you can still transform a corner into a play or work area. In this large media room, we carved out a corner of the room for framed chalkboards and small craft table for little ones. The whole family can enjoy the space and as the children grow the family can add a different table for homework, games, etc.
Game Room to Family Room
The former game room in this home was full of toys! The homeowner understandably wanted the toys and clutter hidden away and the space to feel more grown-up. We installed custom built-ins that display stylish accessories while the closed shelving hides away all the toys and clutter. There is plenty of cozy seating for family time and plenty of hidden toy storage. We have included a before photo so you can appreciate the transformation.
Before:
After:
Upstairs Storage to Chic Loft
This upstairs loft was such a bright transformation! Without a specific purpose, the space had become the home’s catch-all for storage. However, now it is a darling loft with a stylish sectional and decorative built-ins. Such a fun retreat to escape to!
Before:
After:
Rather than just following tradition, we encourage you to make each room in your home personable. Rarely used spaces are prone to become an after-thought and tend to become cluttered. We will help you transition and design spaces to best reflect your needs. To get started, click here.
As a reminder, we are closed today for Good Friday. Have a Happy Easter! We will reopen on Monday at 11 am!