Whether it’s the daily grind of work and school or after-hours entertainment and exercise, most facets of life are centered around the home these days, particularly since the onset of COVID-19. Although some of these shifts were already in motion, the pandemic certainly accelerated the changes across all communities in America and around the world.
As an architect, you must take into account whole-home functionality more than ever by planning for multiple convertible spaces. Here are three indoor and outdoor considerations for creating multipurpose plans that can be incorporated into a home’s existing footprint:
Wet-Bar Workouts
The wide variety of at-home fitness products on the market—from wearables to connected pieces of equipment—makes it possible to convert even the smallest wet-bar area into a workout space. A wall-mounted workout mirror maximizes available square footage so your client has room for kettlebell swings and yoga exercises. Position a Peloton or rowing machine along the wall or the side of the wet bar.
For textural allure in this dual-purpose space, consider a stone or brick accent wall. If there’s extra counter space, a juicer on the wet bar allows for healthy, post-workout refreshments.
Zen-Filled Zoom Room
Homeschooling and working from home are suddenly the norm, so you’ll want to discuss a few long-term changes that can maximize your client’s productivity while minimizing stressors. Zoom calls and virtual events mean you’ll need to make sure the home office or school room includes the right technology hookups and equipment for consistent Wi-Fi or internet access. Look for ways to minimize noise in this shared workspace by incorporating soundproof panels or partitions.
To further diminish everyday stress, use the principles of biophilic design to introduce elements such as natural lighting, live greenery, and organic textures like wood or stone. If your client has space to spare (and the desire to maintain it), consider a living wall with plenty of greenery to enhance the “zen” of the area.
Refresh and Reconnect in Rec Spaces
Everyone in the house requires a place to recharge outdoors, whether it’s the kids who need time away from tablets or adults who need to clear their minds. Determine how your client intends to use his or her yard or patio, and then plan a series of recreational spaces.
A play area for the kids with a swing set, treehouse, or trampoline can provide the right mix of multisensory activities. Adults looking to nurture their inner gourmands may want one area with a small garden for cultivating homegrown veggies and another with an outdoor kitchen and a dining table for alfresco meals. Add a fire bowl and comfortable seating area for engaging discussions that can last late into the night.
By better equipping your clients’ favorite spaces for flexible functionality, you can enhance their working, playing, and staying-at-home experiences.
About Sarah Lograsso
Sarah Lograsso is the Director of Marketing and Product Design for Boral North America’s stone division of brands (Cultured Stone, Eldorado Stone, Kindred Outdoors + Surrounds, Versetta Stone, Dutch Quality, StoneCraft and ProStone), where she manages all of the brands’ marketing, advertising, and promotional projects and objectives. She is well versed in manufactured stone and brick veneer, masonry techniques, biophilic design, fireplace surrounds, outdoor living, fire bowls, color and texture, and up-to-date industry and market trends.
