Space planning describes the process of determining the purpose, functional requirements, and basic layout of specific areas in a home or commercial building, and it is an absolutely essential part of the interior design process.
There are a multitude of space planning projects around my home that I would love to accomplish in the near future. Firstly, I need to save and put aside ways and means to complete the projects. For instance, I have a large kitchen that could benefit from a redesign to include a more suitable and functional layout.
However, because I live in a lakeside neighborhood, we have well water, which is hard on everything, especially the bathrooms. Both bathrooms on the upper level need a complete overhaul that would drastically affect how they are spatially arranged.
Below are the areas in need of spatial planning:
- Master bath complete overhaul to include a large bathtub with new shower set up
- Second bathroom overhaul to include bathtub tear out, install an updated sizeable stand-up shower with tile walls
- Update plumbing in both bathrooms
- Install new toilets in all three bathrooms
- Finished basement redesign to include construction of a half-bath
- Redesigned laundry room (after the half bath)
However, before any crews enter my home, I will need to find and hire a reputable interior designer to help me fulfill my space planning goals. Good thing for me that I happen to be best friends with one of the finest in the southeast Michigan area!
More about what’s included in the process:
- Measure the space
- Create a digital floor plan
- Define the purpose of the space
- Determine the flow of the space
- Prioritize function over aesthetics
- Choose furniture
- Consider lighting
What are the 5 principles for space planning?
Effective space planning necessitates careful consideration of the principles of design – harmony, emphasis, rhythm, balance, and scale – in order to create practical and aesthetically pleasing interiors.
- Harmony in space planning refers to the coordination and balance between various elements within a room or area. It involves ensuring that all the components, such as furniture, fixtures, and decorations, work together cohesively and create a visually pleasing environment. Achieving harmony can be done through a careful selection of colors, patterns, textures, and styles that complement each other.
- Emphasis is about creating a focal point or center of attention in a space. It helps draw the eye to a specific area or object and adds interest to the overall design.
- Rhythm in space planning relates to the visual flow and movement within a space. It involves the repetition or pattern of elements to create a sense of continuity and cohesiveness.
- Scale refers to the proportion and size of objects in relation to each other and the space they occupy.
- Balance is crucial in space planning as it ensures that the visual weight of objects is evenly distributed within a space. There are three types of balance: symmetrical, asymmetrical, and radial.
- Symmetrical balance involves arranging elements in a space equally on both sides of an imaginary central axis, creating a sense of stability and order.
- Asymmetrical balance, on the other hand, involves the strategic placement of different objects or furniture of varying sizes and visual weights to create a balanced composition.
- Radial balance involves arranging objects around a central point circularly or symmetrically.
Finding the right balance of scale is vital to creating a well-designed and balanced space.
How do you maximize small spaces?
These are all great solutions. Now, I’d like to consider options for my youngest son’s small bedroom. He really needs some help in this area. Maximizing small spaces requires creative thinking and strategic planning to make the most of available areas. Here are some practical ways I learned to optimize a small space:
Use multifunctional furniture: Invest in furniture pieces that have multiple uses, such as a sofa bed, storage ottomans, or nesting tables. These versatile pieces can serve different purposes depending on the needs of the space, allowing for flexibility and efficient use of space.
Utilize vertical space: When floor area is limited, consider utilizing vertical space for storage. Install shelves or cabinets that go up to the ceiling to maximize storage capacity. Utilizing wall-mounted storage solutions can free up valuable floor space and keep the room organized.
Opt for light colors: Light and neutral colors can make a small space feel more open and airy. Walls, furniture, and other décor items in light shades reflect more light, creating an illusion of a larger space. Avoid using dark colors or patterns that can make the room feel more enclosed.
Embrace natural light: Make the most of natural light by keeping windows unobstructed and using sheer or light-colored window treatments. Natural light helps create an expansive and inviting atmosphere. Additionally, strategically placing mirrors across from windows can reflect light and make the space feel larger.
Declutter and organize: A clutter-free space instantly feels more spacious. Regularly declutter and prioritize organization to keep the small space tidy and functional. Invest in storage solutions such as baskets, bins, or organizers to keep items properly stored and easily accessible.
Consider open floor plans: If feasible, consider opening up the space by removing unnecessary walls or creating an open floor plan. This can help improve flow and make the area feel more expansive. However, it is essential to consult with a professional to ensure structural integrity and meet building codes.
Make use of mirrors: Mirrors are a fantastic tool for visually expanding small spaces. They reflect light and create an illusion of depth, making the room feel larger than it actually is. Place mirrors strategically to reflect natural light or highlight a particular area of the room.
Optimize storage: Effective storage solutions are crucial in small spaces. Utilize built-in shelves, under-bed storage, or hidden storage compartments to keep belongings organized and out of sight. Customized storage solutions can be designed to fit specific needs and maximize storage space.
What is space planning in interior design?
In conclusion, effective space planning and maximizing small spaces are essential for creating functional and visually appealing interiors.