Design Problems In The Home

Consumer Information

Designers have one primary goal for each client: to identify and address design problems in the home. This means listening to their concerns and learning more about their lifestyle needs, so that each solution can be tailored to their specific needs. Each area of the home has specific problem areas, such as clutter, lack of storage space, and inadequate lighting. But like most problems, there is a solution for each, though it might require some out-of-the-box thinking, which is where a designer comes in. Their years of experience and wealth of knowledge enable them to help you find the right solution for your home efficiently and effectively, saving you both time and money. Let’s talk about some of the most common problem areas in the house and ways a good design can solve them.

Lack of storage

Let’s face it: we all have stuff, especially when we have kids, and finding a place to put it has been a problem for quite some time. Fortunately, designers have found creative solutions to this dilemma for their clients. Built-ins are a fabulous solution for areas like the living room and family room. They allow you to maximize a wall, whether you go floor to ceiling or just halfway, in an aesthetically pleasing way. Armoires are a useful storage option for bedrooms or the entryway, as they allow you to store larger items, such as bulky coats and accessories, without taking up valuable closet space. Drop zone cabinets are often the preferred means for storing everyday items used when going to school or running errands, especially with customized cubbies for each family member. Your designer will be able to assist you in selecting the best options for you and your family.

Clutter in the home

Clutter is one of the worst things you can have in the home and one of the easiest to creep in unawares. Certain areas, such as the kitchen and office, are likely candidates for accumulating clutter, especially junk mail and random items like pens and keys. This often leads to stress at home and can leave you feeling overwhelmed. Designers often make this one of their goals so that their clients can enjoy their homes and have strategies to prevent clutter from returning. Often, these issues can be solved by creating designated areas of intention, such as a designated location for entryway items like keys and lanyards. Having a double trash can pull-out with a recycling bin is a great solution for junk mail, as you can immediately sort and discard what you don’t need, rather than leaving it on the counter. A good designer will learn about you and create a tailored system that suits you perfectly.

Lighting issues

No one enjoys a dark and gloomy space, but if you don’t have enough lighting, that is precisely what happens, especially in areas with limited or no windows. Designers often create a layered approach, such as using floor and table lamps or wall sconces, to generate more light. This creates a more intimate space for everyone to gather or retreat for the evening in their bedrooms, and it also accommodates specific tasks, such as reading. Working with natural light is also important and requires careful consideration of how to effectively pair it with artificial lighting options. Designers will look to maximize what is already there by opening the window through sheer curtain panels or blinds that can be adjusted throughout the day. Dimmable lights are a good option since they can adapt to the different stages of the day. Track lighting is an excellent choice for illuminating specific areas in a room and can be used to highlight favorite features, such as artwork or accent walls. Be sure to highlight any areas that require attention during your design meeting.

Stuffed closets

Closets are one of the most frequently used areas in the bedroom, but they can also cause stress as they often become a trap for clutter and seasonal items, such as coats and blankets. Many homeowners experience a sense of dread, but designers have discovered several effective ways to address this issue and make your closet one of your favorite features in the room. Customized spaces and boundaries are a great start to gaining control in your closet. One trick is placing similar items together, such as shirts and dresses. Items like blankets and shoes can be neatly stored in large baskets and bins, utilizing your floor space effectively. Custom cabinets with roll-out drawers and specialized sections for particular clothing articles make it easy to stay organized and maximize your space. If you are looking to reduce the items in your closet, it is a good idea to do this before meeting with a designer, so they can have an accurate idea of what needs to be included.

Poor room layouts

The layout of a room plays a crucial role in its overall feel and function, which is why designers place a strong emphasis on it. There are several factors to consider when creating or renovating a room, including furniture placement and size, sufficient traffic flow areas, and doorways. If you have difficulty navigating across the room and feel too cramped or disorganized, your room layout is not working for you. After assessing your needs and understanding the specific functions the room was intended to serve, a designer can formulate the ideal layout required for you. The final look should have a unified appeal, making it easy to relax or complete the task without hindrance. Let your designer craft the perfect layout for you and your family.

Exposed technology

Our technology is everywhere and follows us wherever we go, but sometimes that can lead to a clutter of devices that don’t look great. Phones charging on the counter can appear like a tangled mess, so let’s not even bring up that cord bundle on your office desk. Docking drawers are an excellent solution to charging your phones while they are neatly tucked away or having a custom cubby designed. Designating a space exclusively for your devices means eliminating ugly clutter and having a sense of order. You can also browse places like Pinterest for additional ideas and inspiration.

Solving design problems

No problem can be solved, and that includes your home. Finding the perfect solution for your home is part of what drives a designer. They want to assist you in obtaining the home you’ve always wanted, and part of that process involves providing solutions tailored to your lifestyle. Hiring a designer is a great decision that results in having someone who creatively thinks through your problems and then works to eliminate them. Before officially meeting with them, take a moment to inventory the problem areas in your home and determine what each space needs to do. This will give them a starting point, and then you can sit back and wait for the results.

byStacey Walker/onDecember 14, 2023/updatedJanuary 28, 2026/inConsumer Information

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