Chasing good design for better living
Have you ever felt sometimes that your house is out to get you?
Maybe it was that one day that you were rushing out and you tripped over the odd step on the stairs. Or perhaps, it was that time that you were reaching for something on the kitchen shelf and you hit your head instead.
Whether you felt frustrated or silly at that time, the thing is, there’s something wrong with the way your house was designed. Unfortunately, many homes today aren’t actually designed for good circulation and efficiency.
Sometimes, due to budgetary constraints or poor planning, we sometimes forget to incorporate details which are crucial for our easy movement inside the house. Don’t fret, however, if you find yourself in this predicament. Thankfully, there are ways you can remedy this situation.
Here are some tips to implement good design inside your home to ensure a harmonious and easy way of living.
Identify problem areas
First, determine what the causes of your concern are. Is it the arrangement of your furniture, built-in fixtures, or even your color combinations?
Simple as this first step may sound, it’s actually the most crucial. If you’re having doubts as to whether or not you’ve correctly identified the problem, don’t hesitate to ask for help from a professional. This is particularly important if your problem is related to plumbing, electricity, and other technical trades.
Unless you’re trained to fix things in these areas, don’t attempt to do it yourself as you might end up causing more damage or spending more money.
Consider various solutions
Once you’ve established the problem, it’s time to find the solution.
Do your research to know what needs to be done before buying anything or investing your time. You’ll be surprised at how even a five-minute video or a short article on the Internet can already solve your dilemma.
For carpentry works, you need to identify the proper hardware or tool to fix your concern. You will also need to know the specific size of screws, handles, and other items for the job. Do your research first before heading to the hardware store.
You might also feel overwhelmed with the choices if you come unprepared. Better yet, if you’ve hired a skilled worker to tackle the job, ask him or her to supply you with a list of the materials needed prior to the start of the work.
Redesign according to your needs
Is the problem a shelf or shower that is placed too high? Or is it a sink that is installed too low for your height? Whatever needs to be fixed, make sure it is redesigned according to your specific needs.
Designers usually follow a general set of standards when specifying installations. For your maximum comfort, however, you should ask your builder to install items in consideration of you and your family’s own heights, abilities and concerns.
For example, if you have a person with disability (PWD) in the house, consider putting switches, devices and other frequently used items at more accessible heights. You may also be taller than the average individual and have better arm reach than many.
If this is the case, you can tell your worker to install cabinets higher than usual. Whatever your concern, remember to design your house according to your specific needs and comfort.
Sketch and plan
If you’ve got a professional onboard, ask your architect or engineer to draw up a plan to ensure that everything is clear prior to the beginning of work. If you hired a skilled worker to do a simple repair, request for a sketch to ensure that you are on the same page.
It is important to make sure that your instructions are all understood prior to the beginning of the job. Ensuring that things are all clear at the beginning will help prevent back jobs, save on costs and speed up the work. It is essential to have a good plan to make sure the work is smooth sailing.
Ensure proper execution
If you are going the DIY route to install or repair items around the house, make sure you know what to do before starting the job. It will be hard to repair tiles, paint or other things if you made a mistake.
If a skilled worker or group is doing the job for you, it’s best if you or someone you trust will manage and oversee the work. This ensures that the task is being dealt with quickly and correctly. Make sure that the plans are also on hand and are being followed. If there are discrepancies discovered onsite, you should be consulted immediately for decision-making.
Assess the results
Once the job has been completed, remember to do post-construction assessment. Test the item, check its measurements, and ensure that your instructions and plans were followed.
If the results are not according to your standards, you have a right to ask for your worker to come back and repair the work until it satisfies your requirements. Once everything is fixed and done, enjoy the results of your redesigned home.
The importance of good design
The experience of encountering little annoyances at home stresses the importance of good design.
Whether it’s a step you keep tripping over, or a table leg you keep hitting your foot on, these little grievances tell you that you must fix your house for better circulation. They may be inconvenient now, but during times of emergencies, they may become dangerous hazards in your home.
Good design is a priceless element that you will definitely cherish when you experience the little inconveniences. To ensure that your home is well-designed even from the beginning, it’s best to consult a professional from the start. This will help you save overall and ensure that your home is planned according to your specific needs and preferences.
Never skimp on good design and proper planning just to save a few bucks in the beginning. In the long run, prioritizing these elements always will give you a home that you will truly enjoy.
Photo Sources: Anamul Rezwan, Senne, Mark McCammon, Suntorn Somtong via pexels.com
