There's No Space Like Home
Planning The Perfect Room
Written by Belinda Albo – Interior Designer and Author
Read Belinda Albo’s Bio

Today we're not only more demanding of the space we live in but we also have greater expectations for it. We want comfort and style as well as the functionality to perform several tasks in one room. Here are 3 planning tips for improving the layout of living space to meet modern lifestyles.

1. Use flexible furnishings. Look for swivel armchairs that allow for movement so you can face different areas of the room. Ottomans on casters with storage space included are extremely practical and help keep clutter to a minimum. Nesting tables are extremely functional in that they are compact, transportable and allow for additional counter surfaces when entertaining.

2. Think flat. Flat screen televisions have revolutionized how spaces are planned. Say goodbye to bulky sets and armoires and say hello to screens that can easily be affixed to a wall, like over the fireplace for example.

3. Get with the plan. Coming up with a floor plan is a great way to get the most out of your space. The rectangle plan is a common layout option for narrow and rectangular rooms. The furniture is centred around the fireplace to create one main focal point. The square plan is a contemporary layout using two semi-sectional sofas. The look has clean, boxy lines that reflect the existing room shape. And there's also an open concept plan that allows you to create zones within a large area.