Life, Styled
You have just waved goodbye to your last child as they head out to college. While you adjust to not having kids in the house, you also begin to realize that you now have more space, but you’re not sure what to do with it. There are many ways to reuse the space, expand existing spaces, or make room for something new. Let’s take a look at the design possibilities available to you.
A Place For Guests
When the kids move out, you’ll have more space for friends who want to visit. Creating a little area for them to enjoy while they are there, such as a bathroom of their own and a small seating area, is perfect for helping them feel at home.
A Place For Hobbies
Now that the kids are gone, you may have discovered some extra time, time that can be used to pursue your interests. The extra space can be the perfect place to have a dedicated space just for that. Here are some ideas:
- An art studio
- Craft room
- Wine tasting room
- Writers corner
- Photography studio
- Sewing room
The possibilities are endless, and they will allow you to get those creative juices flowing. Who knows, you might even make a little extra doing it.
A Place For You
Even though the whole house could be considered your space, there is something special about creating a unique retreat in your home just for you. Some fun and even practical things you can think about adding would be:
- A larger bathroom: Ever wanted a shower and soaker tub? Now’s the time!
- Walk-in closets for both: That would be a big plus.
- A sitting area for those peaceful Saturday mornings or quiet evenings.
- Expand the square footage of the entire room and maybe make room for some new furniture.
Your master bedroom is your space, meant to be a place you can unwind after the day or simply relax before going to sleep.
A Place For The Parents
As the children leave, there may be a need to move your parents into your home. Giving them a space of their own gives them a feeling of independence, but close enough to have help when they need it, enabling everyone to have peace of mind. Some things to think about including in the design:
- A small kitchenette where they can prepare their breakfast, beverages, and snacks.
- Keep it on the ground level to avoid any potential falls
- Wider doorways to accommodate a walker or wheelchair
- Make the bathroom easy to use, such as a walk-in shower or tub.
Many homes have begun adding or including space for the in-laws, making it a great selling point.
Renovation For The Future
As you begin to make plans to renovate your space, consider your future needs. By doing this, you will lessen the need for further renovation down the road and save time and money. Here are a few things you might want to think about when planning your renovation.
- Slip-resistant flooring and minimal transitions
- Wider doorways for potential future needs
- Minimize the stairs
- Exchange doorknobs for handles.
- Reevaluate the kitchen, consider lowering some of the countertops, and adding extra drawers that are easier to access.
Talk to your designer to ask for their input on the matter. They may have some helpful tips based on their past projects.
Home Value Increased
Many of these renovations can add tremendous value to your home and make it easier to sell if you choose to move out at some point or wish to downsize. Families often look for unique and functional features to assist them with their daily routines. The more you can help them see themselves in your space, the easier the sale will be, and you may even begin a bidding war.
Greenbrook DesignThese products usually come in refillable, recyclable, or compostable packaging and containers. Some have no packaging at all if you buy them from your local health food stores. You can also switch to more sustainable cleaning products, such as vinegar and hot water. For toilet paper, look for options with compostable packaging. You can also switch to a bidet to achieve complete waste-free status.
Being eco-friendly is at the heart of minimalism. If you want to adopt this light, sustainable, and freeing lifestyle, making eco-minimalist changes in your bathroom is a great first step. For more tips on achieving an elevated lifestyle, visit us here at Greenbrook Design.
Walker Woodworking As one of the most used areas in the home for our intimate needs, the bathroom should be designed as a place of refuge and relaxation from the cares and stresses of life. This means that it should reflect your personality in every way, from color to pattern; everything should make it a place you enjoy using, rather than just serving a purpose. Design details matter, and with traditional rules being replaced with out-of-the-box thinking, it is easier than ever to accomplish this task. You deserve to have a well-functioning and lovely bathroom that is designed with you in mind. Designing a bathroom should be all about you!
Greenbrook Design It’s hard to believe that the farmhouse style has only recently become so popular, thanks to its warm colors and romantic charm. It was once a haven for those seeking to escape city life and return to simpler times. Nowadays, farmhouse design is about elegant simplicity in every piece of furniture. Whether you live in a bungalow or a mansion, incorporating modern farmhouse design into your home is easier than ever. Here are some tips to help you get started.
Greenbrook DesignWanting the custom kitchen of your dreams can be overwhelming and isn’t always budget-friendly. However, an easy, cost-effective way to have the kitchen of your dreams is closer to your grasp than you think.
Walker WoodworkingAlthough having a professional come in and assist is sometimes the best solution, there are certain things that you can do to get a head start or do it all by yourself. Clutter is a friend to no one and can quickly overwhelm and suffocate you. Although it is never easy to begin the task of removing piles of junk from a home, the end results are well worth the investment of time and effort. But that is only half the battle; the other is knowing what to do after it has all been neatly tucked away. Use these tips to organize like a pro—start with a plan and be deliberate about its implementation. As you regain control over your home, you will feel the stress melt away as you enjoy coming home again.
Walker Woodworking