Happiness is a considered approach
An unrealistic timeframe can result in a space that is fine for now but not the future, writes Kate Alexander.
‘Sure, I can order that for you. It should be here in four to six weeks.’’ It’s hard to get excited by that statement, especially when you’re trying to finish a room in time for June and Gary coming to stay, or Sarah’s graduation dinner, or – insert important event here. Without deadlines, we wouldn’t finish projects.
Yet, an unrealistic timeframe can result in a space that is unsustainable – a space that will do for now but not long term.
I’m an advocate for quick changes – styling thrives on it.
Equally, I believe in creating considered interiors. Spaces that last the distance. Here are some ideas to help you design for the long haul.
Do the fundamentals well, once
Flooring and window furnishings are significant investments. A sharp intake of breath may be required when you get a quote for a houseful of louvres or to resurface your wooden floors. But, if you make a timeless choice with a quality product, you will be rewarded with years of loyal service.
Custom made
We all have one. The shelf that’s not quite tall enough to make the most of the wall. Or a desk that overhangs a window because the standard sizes are too high.
Money can be wasted trying to fit off-the-shelf furniture into a unique space. Custom and built-in furniture is your friend then. And an area that functions to its full capacity will be the prize for your patience.
A good brief will deliver a sound outcome. And when you know what you’re searching for, the hunt is easy. What kind of space is this going to be, who will be using it, and what will they need? What is the budget, timeframe and mandatories?
And, to be sustainable, consider your brief in the future. What do you need to consider for the nursery to transition into a tween’s pad? Or the den into a guest room?
Flexible furniture
That brings me to multi-tasking – my favourite kind of furniture. The transformers of interiors.
What looks like just an ottoman can also be a coffee table. The bench that’s equally practical inside and out. A table that can one day be used as a desk. Multi-functional pieces are an excellent place to make your budget work hard.
Before you swipe your card, find a way to hire something similar. Nothing beats physically experiencing how a piece of furniture or art interacts with its surroundings. With three dimensions, there are multiple facets to consider, even the natural light in a room can alter the colour of fabric. Use the time to test your brief and ensure your final purchase will be the right fit.
Renovation and relocation can leave some furnishings redundant. Before discarding them, consider if they can be repurposed. When we pulled up the carpet in our lounge to make it open plan, we turned the carpet from one room into a rug for three, and all it took was a stanley knife and a trip to the overlockers. Also on our repurpose list is our dining table, now on its fourth iteration.
Each dining room our table has graced has been a different size, and each time we’ve changed out the top for one in the right dimensions.
Swapsies
Now, this idea is a little left-field. How about swapping with a friend? Your couch is too big for your new lounge, but you love it and know that one day you might have just the spot. Rather than live in an awkward space, find a friend with the opposite problem. Or, if you don’t have room for something, loan it to a family member.
This is a useful trick to keep up your sleeve for when you have a temporary change in how you need your room to function.
As long as there are guidelines for care and repatriation, it makes sense for an item to be used and loved rather than sitting sadly in storage.
In the long run, a considered home should save you money because you’ve taken time to examine the options.
Whether you’re buying high or low, test lots and buy once.
Define your brief, do the research. Invest in the foundations. And, although you may not have time, take your time. The wait will be worth it.
Kate Alexander is the stylist behind Places & Graces and the author of Finishing Touches.