Which rooms are the hardest to furnish? Naturally, those with multiple functions! This space must serve as a hub for various activities—a place for crafting as well as a cozy retreat for family relaxation. So, how do you balance hobbies and downtime in one room? IKEA’s interior designer shares valuable tips on how to effectively organize multi-functional spaces, creating a harmonious environment that supports both activity and relaxation.
Before
The room is spacious and filled with natural light, but the owners admit they haven’t managed to make it truly comfortable. It’s essential for the interior to maintain its dual purpose as a space for both hobbies and relaxation. Currently, the layout is lacking a sufficiently large table for crafting and an efficient storage solution for various craft supplies. On the relaxation side, the fireplace serves as the focal point, but the seating arrangement around it doesn’t fully meet the occupants’ needs, as it feels less comfortable than they would like. They hope to infuse the room with a warmer, more inviting atmosphere and create a cohesive design that harmonizes its dual functions.
After
Following the makeover, the room has undergone a remarkable transformation. The designer opted to soften the stark white walls by painting them in a light, calming hue that serves as a neutral canvas for the furniture and décor. To balance the bold, dark fireplace, darker-toned furniture was selected, forming a symmetrical composition with shelving units flanking the fireplace. This arrangement is further enhanced by a richly colored sofa and armchair, adding depth and character to the space. A cozy rug not only amplifies the warmth of the room but also helps to absorb sound, creating a tranquil and inviting atmosphere.Living room
Tips for festive room decoration
Decorating a room in preparation for Christmas plays a key role in setting the festive mood. The interior designer suggests a minimalist approach, using a few well-chosen elements such as a Christmas tree, a wreath, and smaller decorative items in classic shades of green and red. These simple additions are enough to create a joyful holiday atmosphere without overwhelming the space. For those who love to savor the festive season for longer, the designer recommends an artificial Christmas tree. It eliminates the hassle of shedding needles, allows for early and extended decorating, and can be enjoyed year after year.The magic of Christmas
A place for crafts... and present wrapping
The designer has thoughtfully crafted the hobby area to maximize comfort while seamlessly integrating it with the overall interior design. To maintain a tidy and distraction-free space, storage solutions with ample closed compartments have been selected, ensuring that clutter stays neatly concealed behind doors. For the workstation, an adjustable desk is recommended. This versatile option allows for both sitting and standing positions, encouraging posture changes and providing flexibility to adapt to various tasks with ease.