Designing for Lifestyle
As the warmth of Spring has started knocking on my door while the chill of Winter slowly backs out of my driveway here in Cache Valley, Utah, I feel like making a shift in my design career was well-timed. Fully committing all my time and attention to my personal clients has been a thrilling journey.
Recently, while giving the Cheney & Co. website a makeover and incorporating some snapshots of my own home, I couldn't help but notice the evolving nature of my own space. Some things have come and gone while others, like old family portraits and my late-father’s intricate carvings, always have a place. So much of my home represents who I am and who I am becoming. One of my favorite quotes, by Ken Pursley, encapsulates this sentiment perfectly: “...because building that perfect home captures not who we are, but who we dream to be”.
When it comes to designing a home, I always focus on designing for lifestyle. There are so many decisions that go into home building; which way to situate the house for the best lighting and views, where to place rooms adjacent to other rooms, exterior materials, finishes, color, the list goes on and on. It can be overwhelming. That's why I believe the first conversation when building a new home, vacation home, or renovating, should revolve around understanding who you are and what you dream to be. By diving into these two questions, we can establish not only your current lifestyle needs but maybe an even more elevated lifestyle that your new or renovated home can provide.
Sometimes, it helps to break down these questions even more. Grab yourself a drink and find a comfy seat! Consider a specific space in your home or a personal habit and ask yourself the following questions. These questions should be fun to think about. They represent you and your loved ones which is the essence of home design.
Kitchen
How do you cook and how often?
How many people use the kitchen?
Are you a frequent shopper, or do you need additional storage due to less frequent shopping trips?
A well designed kitchen can make cooking so much easier. Careful consideration should go into appliance placement, plumbing, and then attention to all the small details.
Exercise
Do you work out regularly?
Do you hope to establish a consistent workout routine and need to make that routine easier to accomplish?
I live out in the country and although the twenty minute drive is beautiful, it is not at all convenient to go to a gym. However, working out is very important to me and so a work out room was almost a necessity. I understand that this may not be feasible for everyone, but that's where our expertise comes into play to turn it into a viable option.
Incorporating an exercise room to make a habit easier, is ALWAYS a good idea!
Routines
Do you have routines that add richness to your life?
Can we elevate those experiences even further?
I have a friend that just loves her coffee routine. As we were designing her home, we walked through her routine step by step–from getting her mug, filling her mug with milk, locating the Nespresso machine, etc. We’ve taken this beautiful ritual and elevated it.
Work
Do you work from home or have a hybrid schedule?
If yes, how is the lighting?
When you get on Zoom calls, does your background space look professional?
Do you need a lot of storage space?
I've recently transitioned to full-time remote work, and during a Zoom call, I realized that my background didn’t look as professional as I would like. It was a simple fix for me to style my shelving a little different by moving a few pictures around. If you're in the process of building or renovating, it's important to factor in the need for a professional and well-lit office space. This not only elevates your professionalism but also contributes to making “going to work” more pleasant and enjoyable.
Guests and Entertaining
Do you like to host parties/events?
Do you have guests over often?
Are you hoping to entertain more often?
Recently, a neighbor of mine invited us over to their apartment to reconnect and catch up. Upon entering, we noticed their living room layout posed a challenge for conversation; their living room was situated with one sofa facing the TV and no seating adjacent to the sofa to carry on a conversation. By adding extra seating facing the sofa, they could transform the space, making it more welcoming and conducive to socializing.
Thoughtful planning of furniture layout is key to fostering a comfortable living and social environment!
I’m constantly centered around the goal of designing and adding details that resonate with a homeowner’s lifestyle. After all, thoughtful home design enables you to evolve within your space, rather than outgrow it. Taking the time to identify what aspects of your life you wish to enhance and give thoughtful attention to those areas is so important. If you need to bounce ideas or brainstorm, let’s chat! I seriously love this idea and process of making sure your home reflects exactly who you are!
With love,
Jeri