Our job as interior designers often revolves around the concept of more. Renovating a home usually means we are increasing the size of the space, it typically involves the addition of new materials and finishes, and certainly asks the question what someone can do better for their space and what more can be included in the given area.
However some of the most inspiring design we see comes from small spaces and compact living. From small studio and one bedroom apartments and renovated caravans, to tiny cabins and cottages, these smaller dwellings serve as inspiring interior design examples, showcasing innovate design solutions to common problems we all face in our own homes – small or not
Image via Your DIY Family and Coco Lapine Design
While the reality of small space living has become part and parcel of living in a major city, thanks to rising housing costs and low wages, other times home owners make a conscious decision to lead a less impactful life, as seen in the Tiny Home Trend, which we have been deeply fascinated with over the last few years. This concept can encapsulate anything from compact living, micro apartments and tiny (mobile) homes. In some parts of the world this is now a social movement. People are choosing to downsize the space they live in, choosing to simplify their lives and choosing to live with less.
Image via Tiny Home Africa
Either way, there is a lot to be said for small space living.
We especially love that associated with small space living is the reality of learning to live with less. As you know we love a Less is More approach to design, but we also love to apply this concept to the rest of our lives. Whenever we’ve been rushing around and sourcing up a storm, it is easy to slip into consumer mode thinking that we need more stuff and more things in our lives. I am guilty of always thinking about changes I’d like to make, pieces I’ve seen and items I am eyeing up. So I regularly have to take a step back and consciously focus on what I really need (nothing) vs what I really want (it all!)
Images via Coco Lapine Design
Less in life can also mean slowing down. My preferred state of being is all systems go, full steam ahead, however there is something to be said filling my days and schedules with Less. I’m sure like me, for many of you keeping busy forms part of our days, lives and identities. Having a free weekend at home is rare, yet something I crave the most. When we’re stuck in the daily grind it becomes all too easy to get bogged down with the details of life. As a designer, I need time for thought and space to create. Pretty sure I couldn’t tell you what I’ve spent my time on over the last three days, even though I’ve been working like a mad hatter all week. Most of the time I have to force myself to slow down and focus on what is happening around me.
This month we’re celebrating small spaces and good design, with a focus is on Living with Less. Because no matter what your home looks like, we know the importance of your own space and how it affects us.
As always, we are delighted you’re following along.
Xx
