Isn’t it great when you pull on a jacket from the back of your closet and find a $20 bill in the pocket? Converting unused space in your home is much the same: It’s taking something that you didn’t realize you had, and making good use of it.
There are a few “conversion” design projects that are gaining popularity among customers, according to Eileen Orr of Dover Home Remodelers in North Olmsted, Ohio. “These changes are nothing more than converting unused space into usable, livable square footage,” she said. And what’s great about these updates is that they can be managed as part of a total room renovation, or simply as a stand-alone project. Here are Orr’s top two space-changers:
The Tech Center. Many homes built in the 80s and 90s have a built-in planning desk in the kitchen. In this age of laptops and tablets, these desks are rarely used and have inevitably become junk-collectors. “Our designers have developed a host of smart solutions that turn these spaces into command/charging stations that provide pure function for homeowners,” she said.
Features include custom pantry shelves that slide out to reveal slats for homework and bills; charging stations for phones and tablets; hooks for keys; and shelves for catch-all items.
What’s great about these new command “stations” is that they are the ultimate organizing tool, tucking away all of the essential tech gadgets and miscellaneous items, yet keeping them close at hand for easy access.
The bonus is that these renovations often result in added counter space and new cabinetry. “Adding glass-front cabinetry with lighting beautifully finishes the space,” Orr said. This is a great way to gain display space and transform the look of your room without buying a new piece of furniture.
The Modern Mudroom. Many homes have a space off of the garage
that is an entryway/ laundry room combination. For famili
es with school-aged children, these rooms are often cluttered with backpacks, shoes, instruments…and when the winter weather hits, the load doubles with boots, gloves, hats and more.
“We’ve redesigned this space to create a smart, well-organized mudroom,” Orr said. Stacking the washer and dryer immediately frees up space—and some homeowners opt to relocate the laundry altogether.
These renovated areas feature lockers (or cubbies) that provide individual spaces for hanging and storing items. A built-in storage bench makes getting shoes and boots on/off a breeze; and hooks and shelves inside each locker keep it all in order, giving kids their very own space.
The result is a mudroom that cuts down on clutter, is easy to maintain and helps to eliminate the headache of lost or misplaced items.
Take a look around your home: Is there space that you can repurpose or redesign? Sometimes all it takes is a little imagination. Good luck!
The Best is Yet to Come,
Beth Orr Schroeder
