Pick a starting point. Let’s say you’re starting a master bedroom design. Where do you even begin the process?
I often begin by understanding the client’s requirements, thinking about how they want the room to function and its flow.
Understanding the function of the space, I list all the activities that will take place in the room before placing the furniture. This approach makes it easier to incorporate everything my client needs and identify any essentials that may be missing. A master bedroom is typically used for sleeping, watching TV, and general relaxation. So, I arrange the bed and seating in such a way that the TV is easily visible. The cozy seating by the window can be used for reading, enjoying a quiet coffee, and watching the world go by.
My layout arrangement starts with positioning the larger items along the longest wall of the room, followed by other elements. My key consideration while arranging is to create obstruction-free circulation, making day-to-day activities easier and the space accident-free. Negotiating obstacles can be a major source of frustration, so I use arrows to plot movement on the floor plans, ensuring there are clear pathways throughout the room. I also ensure enough space between furniture items to allow easy movement.
While finalizing the room layout, I always decide on the focal point. It could be anything—a piece of art behind the bed, large windows with views of greenery, or a cozy reading corner. Identifying the focal point early allows you to design the layout around it, ensuring optimal usability.
Empty space, also known as negative or white space, plays a critical role in room layout as it creates a sense of balance, order, and calm. It can also make a room feel larger and more sophisticated. Empty space helps establish visual order by distributing design elements and open areas equally. It promotes a calmer atmosphere by reducing clutter and allowing for natural movement within the space.
Another important factor is the view of the room through the doorway. The initial glimpse often forms the first impression of the space. Arrange the layout to provide a strong first impression, with clear sight lines that enhance the flow of the room.
By focusing on these key elements, you can transform any room into a functional and aesthetically pleasing space that meets all your needs and preferences. Happy designing!
At Thoughts Aligned, we seamlessly incorporate key design principles into every project, ensuring client alignment from initial planning through to execution. We prioritize understanding the function and flow of spaces, creating practical and aesthetically pleasing layouts. Our collaborative approach keeps the client involved in every phase, aligning on essential elements like focal points, empty space, and sight lines to reflect their vision in the final outcome. This thoughtful, client-centered approach guarantees that our designs are balanced, functional, and visually impactful, providing spaces that meet and exceed client expectations.