LET’S MAKE SPACE
Space is one of the major ingredients in planning your interiors. The use of space is based upon available space, personal tastes, needs and budget. In metro cities especially, space is a huge constraint, people live in small apartments. Having said that, it is very essential to understand the basics of space so that you can enjoy, work, rejuvenate and recharge in your own comfort zone, be it home or office.
There are two types of spaces : positive space and negative space.
Positive space:
Positive space refers to all the things material i.e. furniture, utilities, lights, artwork, accessories etc. The positive space brings character and meaning to a particular area.
Negative Space:
Negative space is the empty area around the object. For e.g. the space between two pieces of furniture or artworks. Suppose you wish to showcase an armchair or a lamp, there has to be space around the object to breathe and shine.
Negative space allows the flow of energy, foot traffic and makes it functional.
It is crucial to balance the positive and negative space since they work as a team and not as rivals. These two are vital and beautiful in their own aspects.
It is not necessary to have a minimalistic approach when planning your interiors.
It’s all about striking the right balance between the elements and the space
around it for a complete harmonious, functional and aesthetic look.
Below are few suggestions room wise:
Space in a living room can be enhanced by adding a focal point with other
elements around it.
Tips-
1. Clear glass for a coffee table/ side table is suggested in smaller spaces.
2. Lightweight furniture can make your room feel airy and functional.
Dining rooms need to be open, airy and well lit to enjoy your meals. Space
between the dining table and console should be good enough for free
movement & comfortable while serving food.
Entryways can be beautified using positive and negative space with few things e.g. a stool/ chair/ console/ bench / artwork on the wall with organic elements like real plants can be added for a welcoming look.
The kitchen triangle- (The shortest distance between the 3 elements of the kitchen, i.e.gas stove, sink and the refrigerator.) focuses on the importance of each workstation and its designated space around it. Based on one’s need and budget I repeat, the available space, each kitchen can be made aesthetically beautiful without compromising on the efficiency and functionality.
The less important areas of your interiors can be utilized if designed carefully.For e.g. the bottom of the staircase can be created into a kids play area / a pet’s zone / roll out drawers can be added for storage or open shelves for a library.
Optimizing space in a bedroom can increase the level of comfort and
movement.
Tips-
1. Wall-mounted lamps are good for reading, ambient lighting and also saves space.
2. Window sills can have extended measures to create a seating by just
adding throw pillows to create a cozy sit-out.
Depending on the age group and number of children, from infant – toddler, teenager to young adult, study, bed can be arranged with a lot of importance given to free space for play and other activities in the room.
Tips –
1. Open Shelves with organizers can be added to give you that extra storage that is needed for anyone looking for storage.
2. In case of shortage of space, folding tables or folding beds/ bunk beds are good options.
When we talk about space in a bathroom we need to first focus on safety and hygiene. Since the bathroom is mostly a compact place, hence proper spacing between the essentials is critical for smooth movement with safety. It goes without saying that a cluttered bath is a big no-no. Closed storage or open shelves for the toiletries can be organized as the space permits.
Tips –
1. It is recommended to use frosted glass or textured glass instead of clear
glass to avoid salt water stains on shower cubicles/ partitions.
Here are a few illustrations explaining the effect of positive and negative space which will help you understand better.
A good example of how a lot of negative space can make a particular area too empty, which is why positive space acts as a balance. Here, adding a coffee table with a planter/ a rug/ basket for magazines etc. could make all the difference.
This image shows how a cluttered space can affect the functionality and make it appear chaotic & messy. The right placement of the mirror in front of the sink and proper lighting is essential for a functional & relaxing bath experience.
Here is an example of a well organized kids’ bedroom. As you can see it has ample storage for their multiple needs.
Outdoor areas don’t need to be unaesthetic and empty. A seated corner on a patio or balcony can make the area look brighter and welcoming. Adding a small bench or cane stools can make it even more functional.
An example of a well-proportioned room where the rug, table, ottoman, and couch are perfectly spaced to form an ideal setup. The corner of the room shows warm elements that are placed well but not cluttered at the side. The color of the walls and the paintings have kept everything in harmony without overwhelming the area. Ambient lighting just makes it better.
The image shows enough space and poses unity amongst all the elements.
Natural elements like vases and planters compliment each other. The detailing in the furniture brings in a lot of movement and interest.
This is a good example of a clean, organized kitchen. The distance between the chimney, hob and sink is apt and makes it easier for a person to use. The upper cabinet and the chimney are at a good height, giving enough headroom.
The bedroom is placed in a perfect setting which allows for enough sunlight making it brighter. A bedside table adds that ease and extra storage you would need for your accessories. Ceiling height also compliments the room in a way that brings all the other add-ons in unison.
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