Downsizing is a hot topic and deciding what to bring with you to a smaller home can be a real challenge. A downsizing misconception is that it’s simply a matter of getting rid of some things. The truth is that there is much more to it than that! We prefer the term “right-sizing” because, when done right, the move to your new, right-sized home will be a positive experience. You will have more time on hand and money in pocket to travel or enjoy your secondary vacation home without worries. This process can be exciting and liberating. To begin, you need to recognize and understand three basic components.
Emotions
As designers, we deal with the very real emotions that our clients experience when making major changes to their living spaces, and we have a very deep respect for that dynamic. Give yourself permission to be open and honest about your feelings. Furthermore, expect the professionals who work with you on this transition to respect and attend to this emotional component.
Logistics
You need to determine who will actually DO the things that need to be done. Sorting, making decisions, packing, disposing, moving and settling in can be daunting to many people. There are professionals who can assist in each area. Whether you want to handle all of these tasks, some or none on your own, someone must coordinate these logistics.
Decision-Making
This is where we ask ourselves “How will my new space look, feel, and function?” Consider the following:
- Balance the old and the new: Rather than trying to recreate the same look in your new space, try to focus on creating a space that feels good, feels like home, and doesn’t feel like you are “settling”. You can have the same luxury in a smaller footprint, and a new look does NOT require buying everything new. Keep in mind that you can create a new look with some of your old furnishings. There is a delicate, but important balance of comfort, sentimentality and function, using both new and old pieces, that should be achieved.
- Identity your spaces: What KINDS of spaces will you need? Entertaining, personal time, sleeping, cooking, etc.
- Layout: A furniture layout can help determine which furnishings will go with you and which won’t. Consider the functionality of every piece. Ask yourself, do you need furniture that will now be multi-functional (e.g. a sleeper sofa or storage ottoman)? Creating a floor plan (to scale) is a critical part of this decision-making process and when designing for a condo or smaller living, proper storage and space optimization is essential.
- Colour: A colour scheme creates a flow from room to room and becomes a basis for all subsequent decisions, including upholstery, bedding, accessories, window treatments, etc.
In this image, a cohesive colour palette of blues and whites unifies the entire condo space.
- Time to focus on the details: Finalize what will come with you and what will need to be purchased (or perhaps refinished/reupholstered). Will everything have a place? If not, re-evaluate multi-functional pieces or adding custom cabinets or closet organizers to enhance storage. Create more visual space by using pieces which are “visually light” (e.g. smaller scale, leggy, skirt-less upholstery, glass tops, reflective surfaces, clean lines).
Embrace this process! Plan well and use resources that can help make your move as low-stress and as successful as possible. This will be your new home. If you are thinking about “right-sizing” and need help, let’s talk!
Please contact us at NUVO DESIGN STUDIO. You can either call us at 416-512-1482 today or feel free to book yourself a complimentary introductory phone call.
