Everyone would love to have a huge space – be it for their home or their office. But it is what you actually do with that space that defines its efficiency and elegance. Right? That is where you will find a lot of home and office-owners throng to interior designers for space planning. Having an expert eye surely helps in planning out the available space to the best of one’s ability, keeping all the important parameters in mind: function, layout, furniture, lighting, ventilation, and aesthetics.
But what if we told you that you can master space planning for your home and office with just some information up your sleeve? Well, we’re not saying that you’ll be able to replace the guidance of planning professionals.
But at least you’ll be able to provide better inputs and feedback, resulting in the perfect planning for your space. Here’s a quick guide on the same.
Step 1: Understand your objectives and requirements
Before you begin organising your area, it’s important to have an understanding of what you want to achieve and what your space needs. Our tip? Create a list of questions you need to ask, like:
- What will you be using the area for primarily? Keep in mind all the activities that will take place there.
- What is the number of people you are visualising the space for? That will help you define how much and what kind of furniture you can bring in. What is the primary purpose of the area?
- Is there a need for storage? If yes, then how much?
- Lastly, what kind of aesthetics are you gunning for?
Once you have the answers to these questions, you will be able to define your vision for your home or office space. And that goes a long way in planning it to a T.
Step 2: Get your measurements right
No one wants to be in a position where you’ve ordered too much or too less furniture and stuff for your space, and now you can’t put everything in without overcrowding it or making it look toothless. This is why the second step to efficient space planning is getting your measuring tapes and rulers out and map out every corner and wall. Of course, if you already have a digital space plan, then nothing like it.
Tip: Don’t forget to sketch out which spots are best for lighting, where are the switches and plug points, etc.
Step 3: Furniture planning is vital
Everyone knows that selecting the furniture and equipment is vital for effective space planning. This is where the size, shape, functionality and comfort of your pieces will play a big role. And while you are planning what types of furniture to go for, don’t forget to take into account aesthetics like the style of furniture or its colour. Ultimately, it should gel well with the vibe of the space.
Step 4: Let the furniture in (and arrange it to perfection)
Correctly arranging your furniture and equipment in your home or office space becomes essential after you have made your decisions. But it’s not just putting everything where they can fit. One has to keep a lot of things in mind, like which are the highest traffic areas, what spaces should be kept empty so that any doors or windows can be opened with ease, what could be the focal point of the space which deserves a statement furniture piece. Additionally, make sure the corners of your space are not blocked awkwardly by furniture.
Step 5: Adding the finishing touch to elevate your space
The hard work is done and now all that remains is adding a finishing touch. This is necessary to elevate the look and feel of your space. This is where décor comes into play, allowing you to tinker with the lighting, mood, patterns, elements, textures, accessories, etc. So, what all can you keep in mind?
- Utilise colour to establish contrast, harmony or emphasize elements in your space.
- Introduce texture to add depth, warmth or a cosy atmosphere, to your surroundings.
- Lighting to set different moods and create various effects, in your area.
- Accessorise strategically to bring character, functionality or a touch of fun into the mix.
- Showcase artwork that allows you to express yourself find inspiration within yourself. Impress others with your style.
- Employ patterns to infuse movement, rhythm or dramatic flair into the design of your space.
Conclusion
And that’s that! You can now consider yourself some form of expert on space planning with all the critical insights up your sleeve pertaining to enhancing the form, function, and aesthetics of your space. Ultimately, don’t forget to follow what your heart desires and create the space of your dreams. Remember, you will be spending a lot of time there – so even if it’s not 100% planned for efficiency or elegance, as along as it has your personal touch, you’re good to go!
