Many homeowners living in condos or smaller townhouses will find small den-type spaces they’re unsure how to use. The ideal solution can be a purpose-designed space such as a sewing, craft or fly-tying room, or even a dedicated home office or TV room – with the added advantage of keeping your main living area clear of the accompanying clutter these can bring!
“It definitely gives you more options,” says Azucena Saavedra Onuszkanycz, Sr. Interior Architectural Designer and Design Centre Manager for MAC Renovations. “Many people who are downsizing have developed hobbies over the years and really need a dedicated space for them.”
- To start, think about how you want to use the space, Onuszkanycz says. For example, do you want display space for your materials or finished projects, or simply storage and work space?
- “It’s important that it be both functional and a space you want to be in, designed in a way that makes you happy and feel creative,” she says. For example, beyond the functional elements, consider inviting paint colours, softer furnishings and warm accent options like wallpaper and area rugs, she suggests.
- And don’t forget lighting – key to any functional space, whether the function is sewing or streaming your favourite program while completing your next knitting project. Beyond task lighting, however, it’s also important to consider the value of lighting that contributes to the overall ambience, Onuszkanycz says.
- Whether it’s a simple cabinet to hide your TV electronics or creative custom cabinetry to accommodate and organize all your sewing, crafting or hobby accessories, well-designed storage is a must.
- When those hobbies come with numerous bits and pieces, it’s also worth considering pull-out drawers with organizers, or even peg or cork boards. “We had a client who wanted to pin large quilts and multiple sewing projects at one time so we used a special drywall that would let her tack things up in a larger area without worrying about the board coming apart over time as cork often does,” Onuszkanycz says. “We framed it nicely and kept regular drywall behind, so it could be pretty, it could be functional and she could take it with her if they moved.”
- Will the room also accommodate guests on occasion? Consider dual function beds that also offer desk or shelving space when tucked away – a great multi-tasker when space is tight.
With so many considerations, investing in a designer who can help visualize your room and bring practical knowledge about materials and space planning can definitely be money well spent.
“A designer can bring new perspective with unexpected creative ideas, make the rooms more functional and beautiful, and lead you in the right direction,” Onuszkanycz says.
Wondering where to start? Start collecting ideas on Pinterest or Houzz – great sources of inspiration for small custom craft rooms – then call MAC! Learn how MAC Renovations can help with your den transformation at macreno.com or call today at