Designing a Functional 700 sq ft Home
Creating a comfortable and functional home within a limited 700 square feet presents unique challenges and opportunities. While the space may seem small, thoughtful design choices and clever space-saving strategies can maximize functionality and create a welcoming environment.
Space-Saving Design Techniques
Maximizing limited space in a 700 square foot home requires strategic planning and the use of space-saving design techniques.
- Open Floor Plans: Eliminating walls and creating an open floor plan visually expands the space, making it feel larger and more inviting. This approach also allows for greater flexibility in furniture placement and creates a sense of flow throughout the home.
- Multi-Purpose Rooms: Designing rooms to serve multiple functions is essential in small homes. For example, a living room can double as a guest room with a sofa bed or a dining area can be integrated into the kitchen for a more open and functional space.
- Built-in Storage: Incorporating built-in storage solutions, such as shelves, cabinets, and drawers, eliminates the need for bulky freestanding furniture, maximizing floor space and creating a more organized environment.
- Vertical Space: Utilizing vertical space is crucial in small homes. Installing high shelves, hanging storage units, and using the space above doorways can significantly increase storage capacity without sacrificing valuable floor space.
Furniture Choices for Small Spaces
Choosing the right furniture is crucial for maximizing functionality in a small home.
- Multi-Functional Furniture: Opt for furniture that serves multiple purposes, such as a sofa bed, a coffee table with built-in storage, or a dining table that can be folded away when not in use.
- Compact Furniture: Select furniture with a smaller footprint, such as slim chairs, compact tables, and narrow bookshelves. This helps to maintain open space and create a less cluttered feel.
- Light and Airy Furniture: Choosing furniture in light colors and with a simple design can make a room feel larger and more spacious. Avoid bulky or dark furniture, which can make a small space feel cramped.
Kitchen and Bathroom Design Considerations: 700 Sq Ft House Plans 2 Bedroom
In a 700 square foot home, maximizing space and functionality is paramount. The kitchen and bathroom, while small, can be designed to be both visually appealing and highly efficient. By incorporating smart design strategies, you can create a comfortable and functional living environment.
Kitchen Layout for Maximum Functionality, 700 sq ft house plans 2 bedroom
Creating a functional kitchen in a limited space requires careful planning. Here are some tips for maximizing functionality:
- Open Concept Design: If possible, consider an open-concept design that integrates the kitchen with the living area. This creates a sense of spaciousness and allows for better natural light flow.
- Efficient Work Triangle: The work triangle, formed by the sink, stove, and refrigerator, should be designed for optimal movement and accessibility. Keep the distance between these three points within 4-6 feet for efficient workflow.
- Vertical Storage: Utilize vertical space by incorporating tall cabinets, open shelves, and pot racks. This maximizes storage without sacrificing floor space.
- Compact Appliances: Opt for compact appliances like a mini-refrigerator, under-counter oven, and a combination microwave/convection oven to save space.
- Multi-Functional Furniture: Consider furniture that serves multiple purposes, such as a kitchen island that doubles as a dining table or a fold-down table that can be used for meal preparation and dining.
Bathroom Design Strategies for Small Spaces
Creating a visually appealing and functional bathroom in a small space requires clever design strategies.
- Light and Bright Colors: Using light colors, such as white, cream, or pale blues, on walls and fixtures can create an illusion of larger space.
- Mirrors: Strategic placement of mirrors can reflect light and create a sense of depth, making the space appear larger.
- Floating Vanities: Opt for floating vanities, which create a sense of openness and reduce visual clutter.
- Shower Stall Instead of Tub: If space is a constraint, consider a shower stall instead of a bathtub. This saves space and provides a more efficient showering experience.
- Glass Shower Doors: Glass shower doors allow light to pass through, making the space feel more open and airy.
Stylish and Space-Saving Fixtures and Fittings
- Compact Kitchen Sinks: Opt for smaller sinks, such as apron-front sinks or undermount sinks, to save space and maximize countertop area.
- Pull-out Faucets: Pull-out faucets provide greater flexibility and reach, especially in smaller kitchens where counter space is limited.
- Wall-mounted Toilets: Wall-mounted toilets save floor space and create a more streamlined look in the bathroom.
- Recessed Medicine Cabinets: Recessed medicine cabinets are a space-saving alternative to traditional medicine cabinets and can provide ample storage space.
- Showerheads with Multiple Settings: Showerheads with multiple settings, such as rain shower or massage spray, can provide a luxurious showering experience while using less water.
