Tasks are accomplished faster and more efficiently when the space in your home is utilized properly. Many people maximize their space by designating one room for more than one activity. To effectively give a room dual purpose, here are some quick tips:
Tips to Efficiently Divide Your Space and Give Your Room Dual Purpose
Use a Room Divider
A physical divider or partition can easily divide a room into multiple spaces and is best utilized in larger rooms. Sliding doors allow you to maintain the flow of the room, while more permanent installations such as a bookcase, entertainment unit or decorative screen work to define the boundaries and usage of each designated area. For smaller areas, consider using more transparent options which allow light to flow easily, such as plants or open shelving.
Create Zones Using Color
While it's important to maintain a cohesive feeling throughout your open floorplan, you can incorporate a secondary color scheme to establish various sections which can be used to dine, relax, work, or play. Use colorful artwork, furnishings, accessories, or paint to define each space.
Rearrange Your Furniture
Strategic furniture placement helps give a room a dual purpose, whether you are establishing the boundary between a living room and dining room or using a section of your bedroom as an office. When possible, arrange larger pieces facing away from the adjacent area to enhance the illusion of separation.
Add Area Rugs
Area rugs provide visual interest with color and texture and can easily define the functionality and perimeters of each zone. In larger rooms you can maintain cohesion by choosing rugs in the same color palette or in contrasting tones and patterns for a more dramatic affect.
Put Your Furniture to Work
Multi-purpose furniture pieces can perform double duty as needed to instantly change the look and feel of the room. A foldout sofa or bed can transform your office space into a guest room, while a desk can be hidden behind built-in cabinetry and pulled out to complete homework or pay bills.
Illuminate Each Space
Exterior and interior window shades in coordinating or contrasting fabrics, or patterns can help control the amount of light in each section of the room, adding definition to your space. Motorized interior shades allow you to adjust the light from across the room to eliminate unwanted glare and protect your fabrics, furnishings and artwork from harsh UV rays.