Downsizing

Our world seems to always be in flux which can create a lot of stress and anxiety. This coupled with the cost of real estate in larger metro areas and a desire to live more sustainably, leads many of us to ask: Is it time to ditch our big family home?

This a question that requires careful consideration. Luckily, working with a designer is a great way to see if Downsizing is right for you and your family’s needs. Interior designers are trained to be creative with space visually but also in exploiting every square inch of a space. Smaller does not mean you have to give up style and comfort. Let’s talk about a few ways to make a smaller home work!

A peaceful combination space for guests

DOUBLE DUTY

When dealing with a smaller footprint, it is essential to find ways for rooms and furniture to work double duty: your home office can double as a guest room occasionally. In that case, focus on a quality pull-out sofa or a day bed with trundle. This allows you to have a cozy full size office and share the space for short periods of time when guest pass through town!

Pro-Tip: if it’s feasible, do not hesitate to point ouut that you did downsize but that you’re happy t help find a great AirbNb or hotel nearby.

ADD STORAGE

The big issue for most people is where is all the stuff going to go?

First a good designer will recommend you work with a professional organizer prior to movving. They are a very valuable part of the downsizing process. They help you decide what to toss, what to donate and what to keep!

When choosing furniture, try to see if you can have pieces with built in storage: beds with hydraulic storage or drawers. If you have a console or sofa table, consider adding pretty baskets underneath for blankets, magazines or dog toys.

Do your kitchen cabinets go up to the ceiling? If not you’re leaving some serious storage space untapped! Add Higher cabinets for seasonal items or heirloom pieces you’re not ready to let go yet.

GO OUTSIDE

If you are lucky to havev many sunnyy days, this one is a no-brainer: use the back,, side and front porch or yard. A great patio outfitted with seating, a rug and some sun shade solution becomes another room to use. Have fun with it!

Another option is to add a shed for storage, a prefab bungalow for an office, gym or guest room. If you live in Denver, ADUs ( Additional Dwelling Units) are allowed on most city properties, abovve a garage or built from the ground up. This ccan add significant square footage and even provvide income.

BE FLEXIBLE

Debating if one guest space is enough? Choose twin beds,, great for the kids or non couples in your life. Put them together for a luxury King size for the grown ups!

One single dining space is great if you havve the right table. Leaves,, leavves, leaves! Choose a table that can adjust to the number of guests you have but does not take up much room on the day to day.

Your coffee table can also double as a casual dining (or work) space. Don’t pass up the opportunity to be bale to be a nomad in your home.

This flexible coffee table offers additional seating, work and dining dining space. Available here:

Whatever your situation is and how big or small your space is, always remember there are design solutions for how YOU want to live!