Thoughtfully plan every inch of your home

Architect Sarah Susanka proves that even a simple hallway can be transformed into a design feature with stunning wood details.

Known for her philosophy of coaxing houses to perform better in spite of less square footage, Susanka was a pioneer and spokeswoman for the smaller footprint. She believes in good design over adoration of space.

In the photo here, she transforms a passageway into both an aesthetic statement and a place of function.

Note the narrow built-ins that flank a staircase, courtesy of the Hardwood Information Center. The design is completely consistent with the wood trim details used in this home. Base, doorjambs, window casings and crown moldings are simple and straightforward.

With total ease, the bookcases join the rest of the finishing features used. This is an excellent example of how to incorporate function without having the resolution feel awkward.

Consider the fact that you can build-in storage in awkward places, like under a stair. This could take the shape of wide, narrow drawers that might be perfect for dining linens and flatware. You might install cubbyholes with attractive wicker baskets to hold toddler toys and puzzles.

Narrow bookcases might be your choice. They can hold household books and small decorative collections. A deep closet under a staircase could hold athletic equipment such as snow skis, a surfboard or bikes.

Alternatively, one could design deep pullout shelves that can store large purchases of toilet paper, paper towels or other bulk household supplies.

Susanka's best-selling first book, “The Not So Big House,” has given homeowners the language they need to ask for the house they want. Susanka believes you should create a home that can respond to the way you really live instead of a home that is mass-produced and built according to a formula established by other influences.

One of the basic issues with a smaller home is how to get maximum livability from a more limited footprint. As I've written for nearly 20 years now, the answer lies with the careful planning of inner space.

Notice that inches add up to feet and the tiniest difference matters. When you have control over the floor plan, take charge and think outside the box. If you are working with existing walls and unchangeable footprint, then discipline yourself to research the perfect dimensions for furnishings.

Perhaps it is best for you to invest in a sofa sectional that is custom made so that you can maximize seating in a compact room. Maybe you need to be open to a different way of arranging the seating in a challenged family room. Why not put two chairs with their backs to the TV if it creates a conversation area? How open to change are you?

There is no doubt in my mind that flexible thinking is at the center of arriving at creative ways to encourage more function from your smaller home. I put an Irish Country sideboard at one end of my long living room. There is barely room for me to move my chair and sit at the 54-inch round dining table positioned next to it. However, the other folks at the table are not so constrained and it has created a charming, if snug, place to eat. This is not my main dining area, but on a day-to-day basis, my husband and I prefer to dine here. It feels close and cozy even though I do not have the recommended 30-inches between sideboard and tabletop. Sometimes breaking the rules is a good thing!

The broader point is to first identify your family's needs and wants. Next, devise a way to achieve those goals in a manner that doesn't create a resale monster.

Obviously, you do not want to create an awkward situation that would not appeal to anyone else. Your solution must be clearly in harmony with the bones of your home.

• 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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