The design of a house can have a great impact on how we feel but it is often correlated with the way a room looks versus actual functionality. A great layout should improve the way we experience a space and not just the aesthetics of the room. Here are 10 tips to achieve a thoroughly functional home.

1. The perfect layout

The first step of any remodel would be to finalize the design that best suits your need for functionality. Think about what currently works and doesn’t work within each space and we will discuss how you want to use the space going forward. This can range from working within the existing space to knocking down a wall or two to provide more space in a room such as a kitchen and dining room.

2. Practicality

A redesign should make things easier for you and provide space from a previously overlooked room (think laundry room). Whether you do or do not have the space to create a separate laundry room space, we can work on options that work best for you. 

For example, this Morgan Hill laundry room which provides ample storage space with a countertop that ties it with the kitchen.

Another example is this San Jose bar area. Previously, this space was a desk area that was no longer being used. We had discussions with the homeowner and finalized that a bar area would work best for their current needs.

3. Eliminate the awkward space

Have a space that you don’t know what to do with? Spaces like these can prove to be a challenge. In the instance of this Mountain View primary bath, the awkward space is filled with a base cabinet and glass shelving to display prized items.

4. Planning for the future

It is often easy to address current needs through a new design but it is important to plan for the future as well. Anything from growing kids or aging in place, it is vital to incorporate these design details now.

This San Jose Kitchen incorporates all the homeowner’s current needs as well as the future needs of entertaining guests with an island that features a raised seating area as well as a coffee station with plenty of storage space for refreshments and a sink for easy clean up.

5. The importance of storage

As the saying goes, “A place for everything and everything in its place”, is the perfect saying for a well planned house. The right kind of storage will do wonders by designating the correct space for each item and therefore being more efficient.

Such as this San Jose Kitchen, the pantry cabinet includes roll outs which allows the homeowner to organize items for ease of access.

6. The importance of lighting

Lighting is not often thought of when doing a redesign but it is an important part of the design layout. It provides ambience and can change the feel for each room. Having more of one than the other can throw off the aesthetics so it is important to have a good balance between both artificial and natural lighting. 

In this Los Gatos Kitchen, can lights surround the perimeter as well within the recessed ceiling detail. Additional pendant lights over the island provide visual interest.

7. Work more efficiently

When remodeling, it is important to think if existing room locations still provide functionality. If it doesn’t, it is best to relocate the space to a new area in the house. 

This San Jose Kitchen had its kitchen relocated from the front of the house to being more centered in the house with close proximity to the dining room and living room for a larger space perfect for entertaining.

8. Finishes selection

Material selections are one of the last finishing touches for a remodel. Cabinets, countertop, tile backsplashes, and flooring (tile or hardwood) must play well with each other and the upkeep required for the space.

This Mountain View Kitchen Remodel perfectly balances between white maple cabinets and dark wood panel and shelves. The medium hardwood flooring ties in well.

9. Color layering

Color plays a big role in design. Anything from furniture to pieces of art can impact how a room can feel. A good rule of thumb is to start with a neutral foundation and add layers of color where needed. 

As shown in this Mountain View Family Room, color is added through furniture pieces, artwork, and the fireplace surround. All of it works together to create a cohesive space.

10. Show that personality

Lastly, a home should reflect a homeowner’s taste and personal preferences like this San Jose Kitchen that displays a white full height backsplash at the kitchen with quarter sawn white oak base cabinets, white maple wall cabinets, and blue island cabinets. The back side of the island features a beautiful blue tile that compliments the blue cabinetry.

If you have any questions or need help with your future remodel in Silicon Valley, please contact us and we’ll be more than happy to help you create a genuine environment!