How to Create a Functional Home as a Busy Professional
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, our homes are more than just roofs over our heads. It's a sanctuary, a place to recharge and refuel for the demanding world outside.
However, striking a balance between work demands and personal life can often feel like an uphill battle. Amidst the juggling act of deadlines, meetings, and commitments, creating a functional home becomes paramount.
But what exactly does it mean to have a functional home, and how can you create a space that works for you?
What it means to have a functional home
A functional home is more than just a space filled with furniture and decor - it's a carefully curated environment that enhances efficiency, productivity, and overall well-being.
Unlike mere aesthetic appeal, functionality emphasises usability and practicality, ensuring that every aspect of the home serves a purpose and contributes to your daily life.
Having a functional home is also highly dependent on your lifestyle - what might be functional to others might not provide the same use to you. That said, let’s take a look at some ways you can create a functional space to thrive.
Tips to create a functional home
Pick the easy-to-clean materials
Busy schedules often mean less time for cleaning. So, opt for easy-care materials so you can minimise cleaning time and maximise relaxation time.
Consider stain-resistant fabrics for furniture and upholstery like performance fabrics that repel liquids and are easy to spot clean. Leather furniture is also a good option, as it wipes clean easily (despite what many people think!).
Sofas like the Marlow Performance Bouclé L-Shape Sectional Sofa are spill- and stain- resistant, making them easy to clean up. Picture credits: @skylandish
Leather sofas like the Isaac Leather Terminal Chaise Sectional Sofa are actually easy to clean as they are inherently resistant to dirt and liquid penetration. Picture credits: @mensweardog
@weecheryl opted for a low-pile rug like the Desi Wool Area Rug as they are easy to clean. Also pictured: The Sacha Performance Bouclé Armchair, Peri Coffee Table, and Hamilton Round Chaise Sectional Sofa.
Washable rugs are also lifesavers in high-traffic areas. Look for low-pile rugs that can be tossed in the washing machine for easy cleaning and maintenance.
For flooring, choose scratch-resistant surfaces like laminate or luxury vinyl plank (LVP). These materials can withstand daily wear and tear and are a breeze to clean up spills from.
Recommended read: 5 Best Family-friendly Sofas for Busy Households
Opt for multi-functional furniture
In a modern world where space might come at a premium, a key to creating a functional home is having multi-functional furniture - not just because the word ‘functional’ is in there - but because it helps maximise space efficiently.
For example, bedroom benches with storage not only provide a space to sit, but they also allow you to store bulky items out of sight.
Modular sofas are great for small spaces, rental units, or if you just want more flexibility when it comes to arranging your space.
Reclining armchairs can act as makeshift daybeds, and foldable tables help to make the most out of limited space in your balcony or kitchen.
The Dean Performance Fabric Recliner Armchair has three adjustable angles for the ultimate lounging experience.
The Freida Performance Bouclé Storage Bench doesn't only have ample storage, it's stain resistant upholstery means easy cleaning!
Modular sofas like the Fable Sofa Collection gives you flexibility to arrange your seating area freely.
Create an efficient entryway
Because the entryway is the first place you walk into when you’re home, it’s often the place where clutter easily accumulates. Letters from the mail thrown on the entryway table, shoes scattered about the doorway, and umbrellas tucked in a corner because there’s no space to keep them.
If this sounds like you - it’s time to dedicate a designated drop-zone in your entryway to tackle the everyday.
@lonefoxhome creates a vintage makeshift bar by the entrance with the Harper Sideboard.
Take a look at how @homeyohmy uses the August TV Console as a storage cabinet for shoes!
Made from solid acacia wood, the Seb Console Table is not only functional - it'll last a long time too.
Include hooks for bags and coats, sufficient shelves for all your shoes, and a designated spot for mail and keys. This prevents clutter from spreading throughout the house and streamlines the entrance. A stylish tray or basket can house loose items like sunglasses or everyday essentials.
If you live in a place with more than one season, have a mudroom for bulky winter wear or raincoats to keep them out of sight.
Place furniture strategically
Furniture layout can be a game-changer in the functionality of your home. Consider your lifestyle and flow of movement within each room to arrange furniture in a way that promotes ease of navigation and accessibility.
In an open concept layout, @7interiorarchitecture creates a space that makes the most sense for the homeowners. Pictured: The Marlow Performance Bouclé Chaise Sectional Sofa.
@d_craft_studio uses furniture placement to create zones in this home. Pictured: The Sloane Dining Set.
Once again, @omsweethomesg uses the Hamilton Round Performance Fabric Swivel Armchair and Dawson Sofa to create a dedicated zone.
For instance, if you work from home most of the time, consider placing your workstation in a well-lit area with minimal distractions to enhance focus and productivity. Similarly, create designated relaxation zones away from high-traffic areas to facilitate unwinding after a long day.
Recommended read: The Best Ways to Arrange Your Living Room Layout
Pay attention to lighting
Often overlooked, lighting is another key factor that contributes to a functional home. Pendant lights above kitchen islands and lamps on desks are perfect examples of introducing task lighting to promote concentration in workspaces.
For relaxation areas, opt for warm ambient lighting that fosters unwinding. Floor lamps with soft diffusers can create an inviting atmosphere, while recessed lighting can provide general illumination in a living room that also has a floor lamp in the corner for cosy evenings.
@edwardleefilms ensures ample natural sunlight into the living room, making it more welcoming and functional. Pictured: The Lucas Performance Bouclé Sofa, Paloma Bouclé Armchair, and Harper Sideboard.
Using coloured bulbs can create a more playful and fun vibe, just like in @foongfamilyflat living room. Pictured: The Paloma Bouclé Armchair.
Using warm lighting can create a cosy glow in the living room. Pictured: The Fable Performance Fabric Sofa.
Don’t forget about natural sunlight as well! Opt for sheer curtains in the living room and blackout curtains in the bedroom to allow the right amount of sunlight needed for different areas of your home.
Recommended read: What’s The Best Lighting for Every Room in Your Home?
Creating a functional home is an investment in your well-being. By prioritising space optimisation, picking easy-clean materials, and incorporating smart design elements, you can create a haven that supports your busy lifestyle and allows you to thrive, both personally and professionally.
