Reimagining Your Home

Right now, we have all drastically increased the amount of time we are spending in our homes. What may have been practical in the pre-Covid era doesn’t make sense anymore. As we work from home, care for children or elders, and rethink entertaining, our space planning needs have changed considerably. Here are a few tips on how to reimagine your spaces!

Family Rooms

Finding ways to enjoy time spent with those in your household has never been more important. What makes you and yours feel the most connected and happy? Since it remains unknown when it will be safe to view a film in a movie theater, home entertainment equipment, (including your favorite gaming systems) can be updated to create immersive experiences. Game tables for cards and puzzles can either be incorporated into the space, or folded and stored for use when needed. Larger scale sectionals that can comfortably accommodate everyone in your household may make more sense than individual chairs and seating areas.

Outdoor Spaces

Patios and outdoor living spaces are more valuable now than ever before! These transition areas allow us to safely entertain our friends and family as we move forward. No matter how large or small your space is, create spots that allow for social distance. Sets of chairs and small tables along with pretty planters and lighting create tiny oases for people to gather! Keep the grill close to where you will be sitting so that you can easily check on food without getting too close to your guests. Serve up individual platters of food and drinks for each couple or group so that everyone can safely partake without sharing.

Kitchens

If you didn’t know how to cook before the stay at home order, you definitely do now! While people are starting to venture out to restaurants, many found a new appreciation for home cooking and dining nightly with partners and children. Kitchens designed for maximum efficiency can make cooking with your spouse easier and more fun! Larger islands with bar stools increase participation and social interaction with kids or other family members. Additionally, consider having a designated space for bringing groceries in and sterilizing them!

Mud Rooms

Bulk toilet paper purchases. Amazon boxes stacked to the sky. Pantry items waiting to be decontaminated. The lowly mudroom is now a vital way station between outside and inside. Storage cubbies and pantry cabinets are perfect for staying organized. Set up a hand sanitizing station and area for incoming mail and packages. Consider installing a powder room if you have the space.

Flex Rooms

Have a formal living room you never use? A guest room that is only occupied twice a year? Consider repurposing a seldom use space for something you really need right now. A second office for a spouse, a TV room for the only person in your family who plays Fortnite, a craft room or studio for newly discovered passions or hobbies. And don’t forget about those home workouts!

There are infinite ways to utilize your spaces. Make it work for you. And have fun!