Freedom in Downsizing: Design Tips for a Simplified Life
There are lots of different times in our lives when downsizing makes a lot of sense. And each time brings new challenges and reasons why the downsizing process should and must occur. Usually, it is because we are at a change of season in our lives, starting as young as going to college, then as we enter into marriage and combine lives, and again at retirement. … and maybe a few more times here and there.
We also live in a time when acquiring stuff is way easier than it needs to be:
Me: “I need a new chair for that corner.”
Amazon: “Great, it’ll be there tomorrow, just click “Buy Now.”
The marketing on goods has really upleveled with the little thing called social media. I can’t scroll for more than thirty seconds without being accosted by a make-up company trying to sell me something for my dark circles. And trust, I’ve clicked “buy now,” more time than I’d care to admit.
All of this to say, I’m going to provide you with some tips on downsizing. These tips can be applied to you even if you aren’t actually downsizing your square footage - you can stay right where you are and still downsize all of your things and create space, and it can be just that, space. If you are downsizing and changing your address, these tips will help you as well. In both scenarios the goal is to help design a home that is efficient, organized and still super stylish.
Flexible Layouts & Multi-Functional Furniture
This is my favorite tip for two reasons:
I get bored really easily and like to constantly rearrange spaces…
I love finding furniture that is beautiful AND functional.
For those of you downsizing for a move, take some time to layout what your current furniture will look like in your new space. You can tape it out on the floor or use a simple tool like Roomstyler to help you visualize. If it is looking like what you have will overwhelm your new digs, go shopping!
Using modular furniture that can easily adapt to your daily life or your social life, if you love to host, is so important and a huge part of a flexible layout. The options out there right now are gorgeous. For example, I love this one by Rove Concepts - it hits flexibility and multi-functional!
Start searching for pieces that have more than one purpose, such as a sofa bed, storage ottoman or one of my favorite multi-functional pieces, a murphy bed!
Why? Oh, I am so glad you asked.
Most spaces that we downsize to have less bedrooms and typically don’t include bonus rooms, playrooms or home office space. If you need a room to pull double-duty, this is the best solution. Here’s one, on Amazon, and… you can “buy now.”
Vertical Storage
I feel like this one is underutilized! The walls are there for a reason and not just to divide space, although I do understand that this is their primary function. Using vertical storage helps free up floor space and keeps your things organized and accessible. Consider using floating shelves, built-in cabinetry or wall-mounted organizers as options.
Actually Downsize
The best way to start downsizing, is by downsizing. You’ll need to inventory your home and consider the pieces that are essential to your everyday life, versus the pieces that just exist. You can also look at the scale of your furniture, relative to your space, is it too big and consuming? Downsizing could also mean finding pieces that are appropriately sized to your space.
This should not be limited to furniture but look closely at tschosiks and other decorative pieces that may make your space feel and appear cluttered.
The most optimal time to downsize is when you are moving… I wrote a blog “Moving Day How-To’s,” you can read it here. It has a lot of great tips for those downsizing during a move.
Get Personal
The most important thing to me, in any home big or small, is that it is a reflection of the person who lives there. Incorporating personal touches and meaningful decor can make your home feel cozy and inviting. Family photos, favorite artworks, cherished mementos can add warmth and personality to any space, of any size.
In Conclusion
Downsizing doesn’t have to be an arduous task, as a matter of fact, the goal is to remove “arduous,” from your home… Right? I promise if you spend the time and make the changes, you will see a much clearer reflection of who you are, what your unique style is and I am sure you will notice some improvement in your overall quality of life!