Dual-use furnishings can be elegant, functional
No young woman wants to wear sensible shoes with a fancy ensemble. It's a turnoff to pair a stylish outfit with grandmotherly footwear.
When sensible furnishings are discussed, one could get the hint that you might be sacrificing style and panache for function. Gratefully, that is not the case!
Dual-purpose furniture is essential when inviting a small room to function as a much larger space. This might range from items hanging on the wall to mobile pieces. The variety and purposes of items that can be found are impressive.
Need a mirror? Then why not invest in a wall mirror that also opens up to reveal shallow storage for jewelry? With less than 5 inches of depth, and styles ranging from wall hung to free standing to leaning against a wall, you could have a medicine cabinet, sewing cabinet or storage for any other hobby that involves storing many small items.
The humble ottoman is available from many manufacturers with a storage compartment. Some are on casters. Some accommodate hanging files inside, while others offer open space for mail, magazines, shoes or cozy throws and pillows. You can locate ottomans that open up to reveal a twin-size bed for overnight guests. When not used for that purpose, the ottoman might double as a cocktail table if it is upholstered in leather.
When you have limited space in your dining room, a side console like the one in this photo can be multipurpose. Silverware and place mats can be stored on a day-to-day basis. Wine can be held safely out of the sun and grabbed during a meal for opening. Dishes and stemware can be neatly arranged so that setting the table will be convenient and quick. This particular piece is light, sensible and minimal.
Take the time to do your research. Fortunately, the Internet makes this effortless. Just know that when you search for a classification, you often are directed to websites operated by middlemen. If you want to get the best information, go to the manufacturer's website. There may be more options available.
For example, if you search for a storage table, you will be directed to Overstock, Hayneedle or Amazon for results. Instead, you might learn more if you go directly to Bassett or Century Furniture to see choices.
Numerous manufacturers are offering bedroom drawers that also include pullout work surfaces for use with a laptop or notebook, concealed electrical outlets, drop-down front drawer for use with a CD player or cable box and regular clothes drawers. This demonstrates awareness for pieces that actually satisfy modern needs better.
Electronics change so rapidly that furniture design is always playing catch-up. You will now find very few, if any, new TV armoires on the market. The trend is clearly for large screens mounted right on the wall.
However, with reasonably priced utility can come awkward design — a bed that transforms into a home office is bulky by nature. Realize that the more elegant the design, the more expensive the furniture piece. It is useful to do your homework before making a purchase.
• Christine Brun is a San Diego-based interior designer and the author of “Small Space Living.” Send questions and comments to her by email at christinebrun@sbcglobal.net.
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