DOUBLE DUTY spaces

As we get used to spending more time in our homes, we’re all looking to get extra use out of rooms. Peter Griffiths uncovers ideas for doubling up on them.

- Peter Griffiths

Houses are getting smaller, more of us than ever are living in apartments, and in these uncertain times we’re sticking close to home. So what can we do to get the most out of our abodes? According to Sydney-based interior designer Sarah Yarrow (sarahyarrowinteriors.com) it’s all about making sure that the space we do have can fulfill more than one function …

Living area & indoor garden

When outside space is at a premium, bring the outdoors indoors by making one room or corner of your home a green retreat. It can be your living room, spare room or even your bathroom: you choose. As a place to sit and relax, add as much value as you like with curated greenery, sympathetic decor and even a water feature – or keep things as simple as grouping potted plants together. Either way, you’ll end up with an oasis.

“Just three plants will do it,” says Sarah. “You can vary the scale, proportion, colour and pattern of the pots, plus the height of the plants, to match or contrast with the surroundings. Swap out that extra armchair to make space, or don’t use floor space at all. Hanging plants make the ceiling your fifth wall.”

And if every plant you’ve ever owned has died, paint greenery onto the walls!

Equally, if you have any kind of outdoor space, take your cooking out into the open effortlessly with a side table next to the barbecue. “It’s as easy as an additional bench or table for preparation and to hold food and drinks,” says Sarah. Keep a couple of utensils and serving items handy, and voila – al fresco dining with extra living space.

Laundry & mud room