Downsize Successfully Using These Ideas
My comments about a successful downsize come from my personal experience. I moved from 2200 sf to 850 sf. That’s more than half. As I share in this post, careful editing is key. Your memories move with you. I urge clients to pare down the “stuff” and focus on small details that add interest in the room.
A downsize often reduces your house footprint by 50%. That’s a lot of stuff. As I work in condominiums and second homes with clients, I have tips I always share. So here are a few important ones if you are in downsize mode.
1. Select or reuse multi-purpose furniture
A secretary provides great storage, can serve as a home office surface for your laptop or a flatscreen and is vertical rather than horizontal. And equally important, it is an attractive piece of furniture. This my personal favorite so I mention it first..an instant classic and showpiece. (It’s even better when you have a family member or friend who seeks to part with one).
2. Bring some memories with you
Search the attics of grandparents and parents and revive a piece that tugs at your heart. You will experience a warm feeling every time you look at it. I promise.
3. Surround yourself with art
It’s the window to your self expression.
4. Area rugs take the lead
A rug is a foundation for a color palette. Whether traditional or contemporary, it is a natural way to unite the elements of your design and collectibles. Here’s one I recently designed for clients.
My personal esthetic is clean, simple lines and calm interiors. Guiding FSID, in all our designs, is a belief that no matter where we are, every day, we yearn to return to our home, to that one place that feels like us and that renews us. Our design work honors that belief, and we fulfill it in the design for our clients’ homes.
Invest in a couple of hours of time with an experienced interior designer. I promise, you’ll be happy you did. Contact us by email or phone or on this form.
206.973.3743 ~ faith@faithsheridan.com
Great post! All great points. I have many past clients who are now downsizing as well. Particularly like the advice of using art to play center stage.
Faith Sheridan says
Terri,
My clients art collections are the memories and I like to keep them in my design for the sentiment.