Bigger isn’t always Better

Strapped by student loan debt, retirement, increasing home prices and low supply of affordable housing are some reasons that many are deciding to move to small spaces and are finding it to be very enjoyable and liberating.

Less hassle

Smaller homes mean lower maintenance and more efficiency. No need to spend the weekend cutting the grass or dealing with common maintenance issues that you find in a larger home. The enjoyment comes from having less to maintain and more money to spend on other things like a hobby you want to pursue, theatre tickets or just free time lounging around.

More time to travel

Whether retired or a younger person travel might be an interest that you wish to have more time and money for. Lower household payments and less to maintain gives you time and flexibility to explore our world.

Lower household expenses

Smaller home means lower utility and tax expenses. This can translate into big savings over time. The extra disposable income can be used for all kinds of fun stuff or savings.

Many furniture manufacturers are designing furniture that is multipurpose and in scale and proportion to fit a small space. How you design a small space can be just as attractive as a large space.

Extendable tables, nesting tables, murphy beds, desks, smaller seating options sectionals are all examples of furnishings designed for small spaces.

Pandemic and Interior Design

So many of us are spending so much more time at home since the pandemic and all that has had an effect on how we decorate our living space.

Here are some ways that the pandemic has influenced design:

Bring the Outdoors In

As we spend more time at home many wish to bring more of the calm colors of nature indoors. Cool shades of greens and blues make a space seem more calm and reminiscent of nature. Blues imitate the sea or the sky and greens can imitate the color of the forest or green grass on a spring day. Natural stone and wood tones add an element of nature that so many are craving. Natural stones like marble and granite are frequently used in kitchen countertops and backsplashes, bathroom tiles and flooring.

Work from Home

With more people working at home there is an increased need to find a functional space. Desks come in every shape and style to accomodate any location throughout a home. Coming up with creative workspaces is definitely trending. Many are using their bedrooms as office. Placing a writing desk next to the bed can double as a nightstand and office. Short walk to work!

Home Gyms

The desire to exercise and relieve stress during the pandemic is more important than ever and has created a demand for home gyms. Garages or spare rooms are frequently being converted to home gyms.

4 Factors that Influence Design

Many factors influence the spaces we live in. Location, personal finances, local resources and health and wellness are just a few considerations that influence the design and decor of our homes.

1. Location

   Whether living in a cabin in a valley surrounded by mountains in Colorado or in an oceanfront condo in Florida one thing is certain… where you live influences your design. While there are no set rules climate, views and resources are different in each location. Dark woods, greens, browns, heavier fabrics and fireplaces are more common in mountainous regions. While in a coastal setting you are likely to find more light and airy textures, linens, neutral tones and soft color palettes reminiscent of the ocean and sand.

2. Personal Finances

   How much you can afford to spend is one of the most important factors in design. If you have a large budget then it is likely that the finishes may be more high end and you will be able to afford the latest innovations for your space in a quicker time. This is not to say that someone with a smaller budget can not design an equally appealing space. It might mean that you will have to get more creative or wait longer to seem your vision become a reality. Opting for thrifting for vintage items is an affordable and unique way of designing your space.

3. Resources

   Due to the recent shipping delays and labor shortages materials are in demand and that affects the ability to complete your project. There has been a shortage of paint experienced in the recent past so clients are forced to come up with alternative wall finishes like wallpaper. Many local companies are now manufacturing to speed up production of inventory. Appliances and furniture made in the USA is quicker to receive then imported items. Where you get your items from can change your design plan.

4. Health and Wellness

   How important is your health and wellness in your design concept? Your physical condition can play a role in design. Do you need extra railings and support, ramps, larger clearance space to accommodate your needs? These are factors that are considered when designing a space.

The way you design your space is a unique reflection of you, your surroundings, and resources.