Maximising your home’s space isn’t just about stuffing it with storage solutions, nor is it as simple as knocking down walls for that "open-plan living feel." To truly make your home functional and visually appealing, smart home design and planning is essential. In this post, we explore a real-life floor plan redesign and show you how to divide and conquer your space efficiently, transforming wasted square footage into something usable and beautiful. By following these tips, you'll improve your home’s flow, functionality, and overall value. Make sure you compare the Before and After floor plans at the end of the post to see the difference!
So what was wrong with the original floor plan?
Long and narrow hallways
The layout includes a kitchen with enclosed wall on the side, and the placement of the bedroom doors has created a long, unnecessary hallway and a dead end. Which feels claustrophobic. Picture the infamous corridor from "The Shining"—this space has that same unsettling, closed-off feeling. Hallways like this often serve as nothing more than passageways, contributing to inefficient layouts in both small homes and large properties alike. In homes where space is precious, long and narrow hallways are notorious for stealing valuable square footage that could otherwise be utilized for functional living areas. They not only waste space but also interrupt the flow, making your home feel tight and segmented.
Multiple Entry Doorways
The bathroom in this layout has multiple entries: one from the hallway, another from the master bedroom, and yet another leading to a separate toilet. While this might seem practical at first glance, too many doors create problematic "dead zones." These areas become unusable for furniture or design purposes, limiting how a room can be styled or arranged. Poor furniture arrangement and awkward spaces can disrupt the overall flow, making a room feel fragmented and cluttered rather than cohesive. Additionally, from a Feng Shui Psychology perspective, multiple entry points into a single space create chaotic energy, disrupting the balance of the home. Which we try to avoid anywhere possible.
Only One Bathroom for a Three-Bedroom House
For a house with three bedrooms, having only one bathroom is far from ideal. This setup leads to overcrowding, inconvenience, and a lack of privacy and storage. The limited bathroom space reduces the overall functionality of the property and negatively impacts its resale value. On top of that, to think you have to lock and unlock two doors every time you use the bathroom (especially with multiple entries) is not only tiring but also invites stress. The constant thought of someone accidentally walking in, or the inconvenience of managing multiple locks, makes this design far from harmonious. In Feng Shui, double-entry spaces are typically avoided, as they can create a sense of instability and disrupt the energy flow of the home.
How we hack it?
Open up the kitchen for a more spacious feel –
By opening the side of the kitchen wall and adding an island, as well as incorporating recessed countertop space with built-in storage along the left wall, you can optimize kitchen storage without making the room feel cramped. Only have waist height and overhead stoage and leaving the middle empty. by carrying the same material from the kithen to visually expand the room and create a clean, modern look. This kind of smart storage design is perfect for achieving a balance between style and function in your open-plan kitchen.
Continue the finishes from the kitchen to the build-in side storage to visually extend the space and add storage. Image source: Erica Bryant Design | Photography by Mandy McGregor
Offset bedroom doors for flush wardrobe space –
Redirecting bedroom doorways to avoid dead end hallway. As well as offsetting the doors to allow room for built-in, recessed wardrobes or desk. This can create sleek, flush storage solutions, keeping the bedroom streamlined and clutter-free. This approach is a great solution for those looking to maximize storage while maintaining a minimalist design aesthetic and minimise waste of space.
Offsetting the door ways to create nooks for each rooms for their build-ins. Image source: Gallery of SOYA | FORM bureau | Media - 15
Optimize the wet areas –
Take advantage of the fact that all plumbing is grouped in one location. By dividing this space efficiently, you can create a main bathroom, an ensuite for the master bedroom, and a laundry area. This not only enhances functionality but also increases your home’s property value—the addition of an ensuite is particularly sought-after in the real estate market. It's an effective way to future-proof your home and improve its overall interior design. Moreover, segregating the toilet from the bathroom is always a good idea, especially in homes with multiple occupants. It maximizes the use of the bathroom, as one person can use the toilet while others are free to shower, wash up, or get ready. This separation improves the efficiency of shared spaces, reduces traffic congestion, and enhances privacy—critical factors in making a home feel both functional and comfortable for everyday living.
Segregating the toilet from the bathroom is always a good idea, It maximizes the use of the bathroom. Image source: chrislovesjulia.com
Why These Changes Matter?
When planning a home renovation or reworking your layout, it’s crucial to consider how each change can maximize space without sacrificing comfort or style. Thoughtfully designed spaces enhance both livability and aesthetic appeal. Eliminating wasted space, such as long hallways and poorly positioned doors, improves flow and boosts the value of your home.
Implementing these smart design solutions—like optimizing your kitchen layout, rethinking door placement, and adding extra bathrooms—not only makes your space more functional but also enhances its modern interior design appeal. Every decision you make should improve the home’s workflow and overall lifestyle experience.
What do you think about these changes? Would you consider these changes to improve your everyday life and senity?
Hi there! My name is Chia Yun, or as known as Rachel! An award winning interior designer based in Sydney and Adelaide, Australia. Stay updated with my latest innovative designs and emerging trends in interior design by following us GIA Interior on Instagram. For insights into the art of Feng Shui and interior psychology, subscribe to our YouTube channel.
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