I recently learned a valuable lesson from one of my clients about reclaiming space that I wanted to share with you.
I was on a virtual consultation, and she mentioned she only used certain areas of her home. As we were chatting, I wondered, “Why do we fall into the habit of only using part of our homes?”
Many of us feel this way — even me. We use the same rooms and wish we could use others. It may be that an unused room is full of stuff or is not set up for an intended purpose. No matter the reason, I hope this article will encourage you. Reclaiming space — and then using that space — is often simple, if you put your mind to it.
Reclaiming a guest room
My client’s guest bedroom was a catchall for just about anything. Many times, she walked by and thought, “Wouldn’t it be great to be able to use the room as a guest room and have a friend or family member stay over?” She kept thinking she’d get to it one day. “One day” does come — but we must make it happen. So, we did.
We worked together to create a space that was warm and inviting. All the extra stuff was cleared out. We added linens, cushions, art and lamps and have created a room that her guests would enjoy.
After it was all pulled together, she invited a friend to stay for the weekend and was so happy the space was being used and enjoyed. She reclaimed that unused space.
Creating an office
Often, we create an office space from a bedroom. My client’s office/guest room had become a walk-in closet and storage area that was getting on her nerves. Shelves held so many pieces of clothing she hadn’t used in years. She was tired of having her office at her dining room table; it was time to purge.
We removed everything from the room, keeping only the dresser and wall shelves. We brought in a desk and chair and repositioned the dresser, which actually held some of her extra clothing.
She was thrilled with her new space. She now had an office that functioned and she uses it every day. She is so much more productive and when she is finished work, she can close the door behind her and enjoy the rest of her home.
Multi-purpose sitting area
It’s challenging when you have a space in your home that isn’t really yours. Let me explain.
My client had a home office where she saw her clients, located in the dining/living space. She had set up the office area and was not happy that there was still so much space in the room that was unused.
She wanted to have an inviting space for her to work with her clients and, at the end of the day, she wanted the space to still be warm for her family and friends to enjoy. This was a true multi-purpose space.
We kept her desk area the same and brought in two chairs, a table, lamp and artwork that we found in the basement to create a lovely conversation area. When we finished, we sat down, had a cup of tea and she had a big smile on her face. I knew this space would be enjoyed with her clients, friends and family.
When reclaiming space hits home
Now it’s time to share my own story about not using a space in my home. I really love my home; every part of it. But when I really think about it, probably like you, I only use certain rooms.
For me, I rarely venture into my basement. When I bought my home, I thought I would spend most of my time downstairs. It had a fireplace and I could envision myself there. Boy, was I wrong.
I do love my basement because it reminds me of the beach and P.E.I. (I curated some driftwood, shells, boats and awesome accessories). It really makes a warm, welcoming space, along with a fireplace. But I do feel bad because I don’t spend very much time down there.
I’ve decided that is all going to change. I’ve made a conscious choice to spend time by the fireplace reading each day. I’m ready to enjoy this space.
Do you have a space in your home that is just waiting for you to enjoy and reclaim? Why not open the door and walk in?
