Get a Room

Have you ever meandered and wondered about the purpose of a particular room and what was it was used for in your own home? I have been in many homes and I am always up for a game of “Name That Room”. With my clients, I will usually ask questions such as “Where did you get that piece of furniture? How is the flooring working out in here? Who hangs out in this area? If they answer with only their cat or dog, then we are in for some serious trouble.

I have always enjoyed thrilling mysteries. You have to piece it all together to figure out what is going on. A room in your house should definitely not be a mystery. I am amazed to hear when people fully decorate a room, have spent some serious money… and it’s an unused space… What?!

Once a plan is in place the mystery of the room can be solved. I have seen this over and over. As life changes take place, rooms need to be re-evaluated.

It’s optimal to come up with a room plan by first dividing it into three categories: Room, Purpose, and Function, and writing them down. One time I was discussing the purpose of a client’s family room (Room) and the husband disagreed on the space being used for homework. He considered the office a more suitable option, but the wife did not want to give up her real estate of doing business in the office and have kids competing for time in her area. They reasoned and came to an agreeable conclusion that they would make the family room a place for children to play, while accommodating an area for study activities (Purpose). It was a success and completed with each child’s individual desks that ran across one wall, a sofa to watch movies and shows, and a game table for activities (Function). They were both on the same plan.

Merriam Webster’s definitions:

Room
A particular portion of space appropriated for occupancy.

Purpose
That which a person sets before himself as an object to be reached or accomplished; the end or aim to which the view is directed in any plan, measure, or exertion; view; aim; design; intention; plan.

Function
The act of executing or performing any duty, office, or calling; performance.

After the task of writing those down is complete, the joy and fun of designing and individualizing the room can begin! Sometimes a room is not being being put to proper use simply because there is not enough light. Limited seating can become a problem if you have a main entertainment or dining area. Flooring can also be problematic and prone to progressive damage, if there is a high amount of foot traffic that flows through a space over time. The elements of design are not only important for an outstanding look, but also go hand-in-hand with functionality. When solid communication takes place it always makes decisions easier and it is well appreciated by every family member. It is a pleasant feeling to know the purpose and function of each room.