How To Plan A Room: 3 Easy Steps

How To Plan A Room: 3 Easy Steps

Get A Room!

Have you ever meandered and wondered what the purpose of a particular room was used for in your own home? I have been in many homes, and I am always up for a game of name that room. I gently ask questions with my clients, “Where did you get that piece of furniture? How is the flooring working out in here? Who hangs out in this area?” If they answer only the cat or dog we are in serious trouble.

Photo by Alexandra Gorn

I have always enjoyed a good mystery. You have to piece things together to figure out what is going on. A room in your house should definitely not be a mystery. I am amazed to hear of people that have fully decorated a room and have spent some serious money and it is an unused space… What?!

Once a plan is in place, the mystery of the room can be solved. I have seen this over and over. As life changes take place, rooms need to be re-evaluated.

It’s best to come up with a room plan by first writing it down. Split it into three categories: Room, Purpose, and Function. E.g., When I was discussing the purpose of a client’s Family Room (Room) the husband disagreed on this being a space for homework. He considered the office a more suitable space. The wife did not want to give up her real estate in the office and have kids competing for time in her area that she needed for business. They talked through everything and reasoned that they would make the family room a place for children to play and accomplish study activities (Purpose).  It would be complete with individual desks on one wall for each child, sofa to watch movies, and game table for activities (Function).  They were both on the same plan.

Photo by Minh Pham

Step 1: Locating which Room needs your attention.

Step 2: Define the Purpose of the room. Is this room supposed to be an office, living room, or home gym, etc. What daily activities will be performed here. 

Step 3: Execute the Function of the room. Make a list of which items need to be here that help the purpose of the room. Moreover, note the items which need to be removed that hurt the purpose and the overall functionality of the room.

After that task is complete, it is time to execute the room plan. This is where the fun of designing and individualizing the area can take place. Sometimes a room is not being used because there is not enough light for the intended purpose. Limited seating can be a problem if this is their main entertainment area. Flooring can be problematic in a space if traffic flowing through can cause damage. So the elements of design are important for a good look but for functionality. It is always amazing when good communication takes place and the discussion leads to clients seeing how easy changes can be made to that room and it is well appreciated by every family member. It is a good feeling to know the purpose and function of each room.

Print out the printable below and get started on your Room Plan now!

 

 

 

Cover Photo by Collov Home Design