Spatial planning and furniture layouts

At Tailored Living Interiors spatial planning is an integral part of the design process. Once we have taken a brief and fully understood our client requirements, likes and dislike, we proceed to study the space. The correct layout can ultimately make or break a scheme. It is from this very early stage of the process that the success of the final scheme can be determined.

As part of this in-depth study we look into the following aspects of each space:

1. Accurate plans to scale: Even when we are given plans by a third party we still ensure that measurements are correct. These plans form the starting point
   of our spatial planning.
2. Zoning: Zoning means separating areas according to their function. This is particularly important when working with a large room or open plan living. Depending on the life style of our clients we create different sub-spaces catering for different uses, ultimately tailoring the space to our clients requirements. For example the kitchen can be a place to cook, spend time with the family, entertain, dine or socialise. In our initial plans we mark circles over these areas. It is called a bubble plan.
3. Traffic flow: After looking at the activities that will take place in a given space, we analyse how people will move through the space. We draw all natural circulation routes, thinking of different scenarios and indicating how people will move from room to room. This will influence decisions on furniture arranging
4. Ergonomics: Perception of space is based upon body size. For instance, the client’s height will influence decisions such as height of bathroom sinks, height of mirrors, height of kitchen island and bar stools.

Investing time during the planning stage in anticipating your needs and ensuring the layout accommodates them fully, will help you create an interior that you will love and enjoy every day.