by Michelle Carpenter, Trudi Jones Design
The ability to adapt, change and evolve has become an advantageous and necessary skillset in the last 18 months. We’ve come together in our time apart to learn how to persevere, to embrace change, and to find new ways to nurture our souls. Now, as we emerge from this period of isolation, many of us are turning to new surroundings and fresh opportunity in new homes as a means of celebrating our shift towards a more promising second half to the year.
The current landscape of the housing market means that selling can happen very quickly, and rather than upgrade or make a lateral move, many are choosing to downsize into a more compact and efficient space. Smaller spaces can lead to beautifully designed, streamlined living, allowing for a simpler, less cluttered environment that truly reflects your design aesthetic in a focused and purposeful way. The challenge many face though is how to transition from a larger home to a smaller space. We’ve curated some thoughts on how to approach this process that allows for a seamless shift from larger to smaller, with the aim of creating a space that conveys the warmth of home while embracing the excitement of new beginnings!
Avoid Overwhelm. While very exciting, downsizing can also be an incredibly difficult and often emotional process, especially if the shift is from a home that holds many memories and items of sentimental value. Approach the process in bitesize pieces, begin with one closet in one room. Once that is complete, shift to the next space in that room, e.g. a dresser or side table. Continue this process, moving from one small space to another only once the previous space is completely clear.
Be Willing to Release Some Items. Be prepared by having a section of your home with three bins (or more once you’re on a roll and fill them up!); one for items to release (donatable/sellable items), one for items to keep, and one for trash. As you move through each space aim to keep only items that carry the most sentimental value and will continue to hold a space in your heart and new home. Everything else that is unnecessary or irrelevant, as tough as it can be, attempt to release it and sort it accordingly.
Know Your New Space. When it comes to larger items such as furniture, knowing the room sizes in your new home will be very important. Ensure that you have measurements so you know what can conceivably and comfortably fit into each room; this will provide insight into whether or not your existing pieces will find a place there. Small spaces lend well to a more minimalistic approach to furnishing. Consider having condo-sized pieces that double as storage, mix in materials such as glass to provide the illusion of space, and only fill the space with pieces that serve purpose or bring you joy. And if you’re ready for it, starting anew with all new pieces, curated specifically for that space, is also an excellent idea!
This process of honouring the home you’ve come from while embracing a new approach to living can take time. Allow yourself grace as you move through the emotions that often come as you prepare to downsize, aiming to hold in your mind the opportunity that lies in your wonderful new home. And of course, don’t be afraid to ask for help, hiring a designer to assist you in the process may be an approach that will help to guide and support you through this exciting transition.
