How to Design a Functional, Stylish and Clutter-Free Home
by Neha Ruch
No matter the budget or size of your space, home should always make you happy from the moment you walk through the door.
Photo: @claireesparros, Styling: @justindipiero, Architecture: @kmystudios, Design: @motheruntitled
When we committed to raising our family in New York, it came with the not insignificant trade off of loads of separate spaces and storage room. Living on one floor and congregating most often in one big room is a constant physical articulation of what Mother Untitled is all about—making choices, finding what has to give, and allowing our identity and interests to exist alongside children. So I loved hearing from Karina Plotko, a New York-based designer and mother of three girls, whose passion point is creating sensible family spaces that respect everyone's needs, while maintaining a chic, contemporary feel. Below, with her practical and elegant approach to design, Karina shares her expert advice on creating a space for real life to take place.
Make Room for Everything—No Matter the Space
When I meet with a new client, I spend a lot of time discussing how their family lives. Do they like to entertain? Cook or order in? Do the kids do homework in their rooms or in the dining room? Do they read a lot or do arts and crafts? This allows me to plan for each part of their lives. If the family entertains, I’ll add a bar area, ottomans for extra seating for guests, and nesting tables for cocktails. If a child is a big reader, I make sure there are enough bookshelves and a comfy reading area. The key is to have a spot for everything the family needs no matter the size of their space. I focus on function and flow as much as aesthetics.
The key is to have a spot for everything the family needs no matter the size of their space. I focus on function and flow as much as aesthetics.
Cut Down On Clutter With These Tips
The number one challenge is too much stuff. Before I start working with families, I ask that they seriously consider what they really want and use in their lives. People think that they need way more than they actually do, so once they start to go through their belongings, the thrift store bags pile up! Once they do their job, I can step in and do mine. I create areas so that everything can be put away and adults can live in a clutter-free environment. Everyone deserves that in their lives.
Make Your Space Do Double-Duty for Parents + Kids
From experience, I know that younger children always want to be around their parents. Because we’ll miss that when they’re older, I don’t want to limit that time now. We can all share the space, but once the kids are off to bed and the grown-ups are having their own time (hopefully with some wine), all of the children’s toys should be put away. Which is why it’s so important to limit what you have and have a place for it all to be put away. I’m raising three children in NYC, so I know it’s possible!
Photo: @erinderby for Cubby, Design: @motheruntitled
How to Live With Kids’ Toys Without Losing Your Mind
There are two keys to this:
1. Constant editing.
2. Accepting that things won’t always be perfect.
We don’t live in a magazine or Instagram post; it’s OK to embrace the chaos. Just pick up where you left off when you can, and be kind to yourself.
Choosing the Right Furniture Pieces
If you can, it’s always great to design a custom piece because it allows you to use every inch of space. For kids' rooms, Crate & Kids and CB2 have great modern pieces if you’re on a budget. For higher end, Duc Duc from The New Traditionalist is fantastic. For living rooms, Mitchell Gold and Bob Williams have classic furniture that you won't get tired of. For a client who has some room in their budget to have something customized, I love working with Julian Chichester.
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