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by by Judy ChristophersonMany of us grumble because the rooms in our home are too small. More often than not, the problem is not the size of the room, but the flow and function of the space.
The kitchen
A classic example is the kitchen. It is essential to plan storage, cooking spaces and eating areas such as a breakfast nook. That way the early risers can enjoy a light meal, read the paper or listen to the news before scrambling out the door.
You could create a space with a small kitchen table, two small chairs and a shelving unit to hold cups and plates. Cutlery can be kept in a small drawer in the table. Placemats and salt and pepper can be placed on a small tray that can be moved to the kitchen table from the main kitchen counter or the shelving unit.
The table should be large enough so that the newspaper can be opened and breakfast can be eaten. Intentionally creating a space for this purpose is much better than standing at the counter and looking into the other room to glimpse the television with biscuit in hand. Instead of a small, useless corner in the kitchen, you now have a very pleasant area to spend your morning hour before work.
The livingroom
Another common problem is that the livingroom only seats five people. An arrangement where five people can converse easily, or read or play games is the answer. If only five people fit, don't try to fit 12 people in the room. Make it the best possible space for five. Think outside the box for new possibilities. Perhaps the room should be a library of books lining the walls and five chairs on casters that can be grouped or separated as the occasion requires.
Instead of a regular height coffee table, use a table that is slightly higher so that games (card or board games) can be played comfortably and conversations can be clustered around activities. Chairs that can be moved from room to room on demand are essential.
The bedroom
A bedroom that has the bed in the center of the room is ideal. This makes it easy to access the bed for sleeping and making it. This may not be your situation. Your bed may need to be against the wall, and in that case, you will need to make some adjustments.
Choose bedding that is not fussy to make up. Comforters with duvet covers are easier than several blankets and a bedspread. Choose dressers as well as open shelving for a cozy effect. Consider storage boxes under the bed to free up floor space. Add lots of pillows to the bed so that you can sit and read, which eliminates the need for a chair. Be certain that a good reading lamp is available, preferably one that is wall-mounted. A night table will not be necessary if lamps and shelves are installed. The result is a restful room offering privacy and a well-ordered space.
These are just a few possibilities for dealing with small spaces. It is important to remember to make the most of what you have and not be concerned with what you don't have. Focusing on the atmosphere and the function will give you a welcoming environment in which to live.
Judy Christopherson has been an interior designer and builder for the past 20 years. Currently, she directs Women Today, Canada, putting her creativity to work developing creative outreaches such as Victorian Tea Parties.
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