Functionality is one of the most crucial aspects of good interior design, and often the thing i spend longest perfecting when working on schemes for clients. It not only impacts the way a space looks, but also how it feels - and whether it is practical and enjoyable to use on a day-to-day basis.
So, how did we go about devising a layout that worked for us and our lifestyle, and that makes the best use of the space we have? Read on to find out . . .
started with a blank canvas . . .
We started the design process by detaching ourselves from any preconceived notions of how things should be. It's easy to get caught up in the way shown on house-developer plans. To do this, we started by mapping out an empty apartment.
Above: a simple plan of our apartment with all civil walls that we intend to retain as is, the beams are shown in dotted to keep our structural understanding in check.
thought about functions . . .
Before bringing in furniture, we listed out all the activities we needed to accommodate. Whether it's lounging, eating, entertaining, working, sleeping, or even gatherings, we defined a clear idea of what every room needed to facilitate. Then we started figuring out how to incorporate everything into the space. This was very important in large, open-plan areas like ours, which work best when they're broken up into defined 'zones'. But even smaller rooms have multiple functions to fulfil and need defined spaces for example our bedrooms; we do not like to have wardrobes inside our bedroom so we created spaces for dress areas (if not as large as a walk-in wardrobe) in all our rooms including the guest bedroom.
Above: To define zone for different functions we created masonry and partition walls which defined our apartment layout.
defined focus points . . .
Focal points in any space create an element of interest, when we enter a room our eye takes a mental pause on these points. It could be anything - a set of patio doors, a bed back or even a partition door or art work. In our case, our living room and dining is one large space so we have multiple focal points where as smaller rooms like bedroom has just one focal point. However, identifying the focal point from the beginning allowed us to design the layout around it and highlight the best features of the space.
Above: 'x' marks the focal points in every space, we decided on these points by moving in our apartment and marking where our eyes stops for guidance. These points create a visual curiosity which invites you to move further.
placement of big elements . . .
These pieces tend to be the most important in any space and can be quite costly to change if they don't work. Once we found the right position for these larger items, we added smaller pieces around them. Additionally, we also identified spots for things like lamps, wall shelves, and artwork to complement the overall layout.
This approach allowed us to visualize how the space will function and flow, ensuring that each piece of furniture serves a purpose and contributes to the overall aesthetic of the room. It's was process of trial and error, but by taking the time to experiment with different arrangements, our final layout felt both functional and visually appealing.
negative space . . .
The most successful layouts often embrace elements of negative space, allowing the items that are included to shine and preventing the overall scheme from feeling cluttered or overwhelming. By striking the right balance between functionality, aesthetics, and spatial harmony, we achieved a layout that not only looks great but also feels comfortable and inviting – a space where every element has its place and contributes to the overall harmony of the room.
Above: I've placed all furniture in a way that allows free movement around the room. By carefully considering the different functions of the room and arranging the furniture accordingly, I've been able to create a space that's not only practical but also inviting and conducive to relaxation.
thought about movement . . .
When I'm designing a space, I always prioritise traffic flow – something that many people overlook. Having clear pathways through each room was essential for ensuring a seamless and frustration-free experience for movement in the home. we also paid close attention to the spacing between furniture pieces, ensuring that there's enough room for people to circulate around the room comfortably.
balance . . .
When arranging furniture, it was crucial for us to maintain balance throughout the room. Placing too much furniture on one side can instantly throw off the visual harmony of the space. To create a sense of equilibrium, we aimed to distribute larger items evenly.
Whether you're tackling a spacious living area or a cozy nook, these principles of design and layout can serve as a solid foundation for creating a space that's both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Stay tuned for more insights and inspiration in upcoming posts!
Warm regards,
Esha
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