Cleanliness, functionality, and ease-of-use are the top three areas of focus in the home now that many call this their workspace too. Often a prolonged time at home reveals the design flaws present. Perhaps you are one of those in need of a home that performs better with your current lifestyle. Some of the ways that homeowners are accomplishing this are:

• Countertops that are germ-free
• Reducing clutter by creating a better space
• Cabinets that have an anti-germ surface

Our top priority is to help our clients achieve a space that is suited to their needs and unique lifestyles. Here are three ways we strive to do this and help you create a space that is safe and well thought out for you and your family.

Cleanliness

In light of our current situation (COVID-19), cleanliness is a top priority in the home. The safety of our family is important to us but there are also other benefits that come from building good cleaning habits:

• Higher productivity: nothing will zap your motivation that a messy area. When things are in a disarray, piles of clothes and paper are everywhere, and you can’t find anything, it can be difficult to get anything done. A clean workspace or room can help give you that little boost you need.
• Minimized stress: we live in a very fast-paced environment that often comes with a side of stress. When your home feels cluttered and messy, it can have negative effects on your body and mind. When your home is organized it gives peace of mind that things are good.
• Healthier choices: the environment in our home can influence our choices. When things are dysfunctional we tend to gravitate toward unhealthy things like junk food. This means, however, that a cleaner home can help us subconsciously make better choices.

With the home expanding to include the office and school zone, it is important to keep everyone feeling safe, especially from germs as much as possible. Several of our products come with germ-free benefits such as the antimicrobial textured laminate cabinets from Cabico, we are an authorized dealer. Quartz countertops are also less likely to retain any germs because of their non-porous material. Talk to your designer about some other additional options available to ensure that your family stays safe in the place you call home.

Functionality

Your home is more than just your dwelling place, it is where you make dinner for your family, where you manage your finances, where you help your children with their homework, and where you entertain guests. The home serves multiple purposes and the flow and function of your space should reflect that need. A functional home also has the potential to increase resale value. Some things to keep in mind when designing a new home or remodeling your current residence:

• Placement of rooms: keeping areas that are separate but complement each other is important such as the dining room should be near the kitchen and the bedrooms near the bathrooms.
• Visualize your daily routines: how do you start your day? With a cup of coffee while scanning the headlines? Maybe you should consider having your kitchen and breakfast area facing the east so you can have the soft morning light. Perhaps you have little time in the morning to get everything out the door. Adding a mudroom with individual cubbies allows you to prepare the night before and save you time and frustration. 
• The little thing: because they are small it makes them easy to be overlooked but that doesn’t mean they are unimportant. Light switch placement. Put it where your hand naturally goes and at a good height for everyone to reach. Legroom in such areas as the breakfast bar and bathroom vanity. Zero step entry into your home also makes it easier to get in and out the door especially when carrying several things.

By visualizing what you want to accomplish in each area of the home you can formulate a plan that will ensure things are where they need to be, creating less stress and more time with your family.

Ease-of-use

Another term to describe this would be universal design meaning that the home works well for an array of ages and physical needs. Here are a few examples of what we mean:

• Comfort height countertops: whether you are prepping for a meal or just grabbing a snack, your countertop should not limit or create a problem due to height. They should be at a comfortable height for all including the kids or grandparents. The standard height is 36 inches but you can also include an area that is 30 inches so that those who need to sit while they work are able. 
• Hardware placement: hardware is a beautiful accent to cabinets but where they are placed is important. Consider who will need to access them before finalizing their placement.
• Pullout shelves: there is nothing more frustrating than trying to get something out of the cabinet and being unable to find it. Pullout shelves solve that problem and can be used in multiple areas in the home including the pantry, bathroom, and closets. 

Your home should be the one place where you are not stressed, where you can relax and be yourself. By making a few adjustments that match your lifestyle, you will find that home truly is a great place to be. Read a little more here.

Let’s get started

Home has evolved into more than just a place where we go at the end of the workday. It has become our office, school, and dine-in restaurant while still remaining our personal space. Serving so many purposes can make it difficult to know what it what but with over 20 years of experience helping clients find the right balance we are sure to provide you with exactly what you need. Now more than ever we are here to help you have the home essential to your lifestyle. Give us a call today to set up your design appointment 980-404-9600