In the series “How to...”

Post No. 3 How to make furniture do double-duty!

Whether I'm furnishing a compact space or a more traditional space, I love to use pieces that “multi-function. It just seems so obvious that if something can do it's job well, AND another job alongside, it's a good deal.



Usually these “double-duty pieces” do cost more to purchase, but quickly pay for themselves over time. They save floor space and/or allow your space to be ultra adaptable, so if one evening your roll call of guests is a cosy two-some, your space stays light and airy, but when the guest list expands, your space is more likely to cope.

Designer Benoit Lienart is the master-mind

behind the "Sweetch18" this clever

indoor/outdoor chair/table design that

doubles as a space saver, as well

as a talking point with your guests!

What style? Most functional, modern or contemporary furniture tends to “hide their light under the proverbial bushel”, so you have to look carefully to see their additional uses: the coffee table that rises up (think ironing board system) into a full size dining table; the built-in door front or picture that drops down on strong hinges to create a work top (don't be shy to invest in these pieces, as quality is directly linked to the longevity of the product); dining chairs, benches, coffee/side tables or stools with concealed storage; beds that store away, or descend from hidden ceiling boxes...all of them “workhorses” that resemble racehorses, with   slick designs, showcasing modern finishes...

But the need and desire for clever furniture isn't a modern phenomenon! You only have to take a look at the ultra-simple, but ultra-functional interiors of the American Shakers. Lines of wall pegs lined the walls to allow chairs (ladder backed) to be hung to free floors for easy cleaning. Both the English-folk in Georgian times, and the design-savvy Swedes lived with beautiful wooden tables, their rounded table tops designed to flip up so the whole structure could be pushed away against the wall. The Swedes went a step further and painted them with intricate and colourful pattern, making instant “wall art”! As today, quality of the materials shines through, and many of these pieces are still in use today.

Keep an eye out for specialist stores, often more prevalent in cities where small spaced living is at a premium, or search the web for companies offering clever solutions in all sorts of furnishing forms. Find a great carpenter/ebenist! Custom-made can be a high initial cost, but if you're in the position to invest in well made items, and/or built-in storage, it will pay for itself in the long run.

And to make sure you're space is really well planned to suit your lifestyle needs, invest in planning! Our single room design service links you up with one of our qualified designers trained in the art of space-saving solutions and design that will delight your senses.

Take a look at http://www.designatdistance.com/ for more details about our design services, and custom solutions for your home, or give us a shout at info@designatdistance.com.

Happy planning!