I am both a veteran and a newbie to the empty-nester world. My daughter married and moved out a number of years ago, and my son recently moved out, making our empty-nest official. However, since starting Your Design Partner, I’ve assisted many clients with the transition from full houses to empty nests, as well as the occasional minimalist—all of them wanted to create a space that catered to their new phase of life and left plenty of space for all of the adventures on the horizon. Since my move to Florida, I’ve collected a few tips, based on experience, for the downsizing crowd—whether you’re entering the empty-nester phase or simply interested in a slightly more minimalist lifestyle.
Downsizing Tips
1) Learning To Let Go.
One of the hardest things to do is let go. So many memories are created in a home and so many objects have memories attached to them. But, unfortunately, a huge part of downsizing is combing through your belongings and deciding what is a need and what is want.
My best tip: You have to keep it moving friends and not get attached to “things” otherwise you’ll be recommended for the hoarders show or worse….you’ll live in a space that won’t allow you to breathe, be creative, or enjoy life to the fullest.
2) Compromise With Your Partner.
Compromise is a big one. Actually, it’s huge, because you’ll both have ideas of what your next chapter should look like and they don’t always match. Finding common ground, discussing expectations, and understanding what the other person wants to prioritize goes a long way to domestic peace…and a more stress-free downsizing experience.
3) Choose Multipurpose Pieces.
Multipurpose pieces are becoming more and more popular. And for good reason. They make condensing your belongings and streamlining the purpose of every room a breeze. You’ll feel like there is less furniture to get in the way while also still having all the storage, work, and hosting space you need.
My best tip: Invest in console tables that can be used as a desks, ottomans that can double as coffee tables, murphy beds that can be tucked away, and credenzas that can store everything you need on top and in drawers below.
4) Create Multi-functional Rooms.
This was something we definitely had to do for our move to Florida. One of our bedrooms became an office with a murphy bed that makes it easy to convert into guest space when my daughter and her husband, or my son, come to visit (which, in my dream world, is every weekend…a mom can dream, right?)
My best advice: Convert bedrooms into offices, utilize basements, garages, and other extra spaces as craft rooms, theater rooms, or play rooms. The great part is, with some multipurpose furniture, all of these spaces can toggle between one or two differing purposes.
5) Design With Your Dream Elements In Mind.
Designing with your dream elements in mind is essential when it comes to redesigning. Take a moment to consider your hobbies, things you’ve always wanted, and features that will just make you smile. Have one in mind? Make sure your designer knows about it! We love incorporating these types of spaces because we know that it enriches our clients’ lives and makes their empty nest a little homier, and the minimalist’s house an absolute dream. Some possible options: Golf simulator, pool, wine room, home theater, dance space, or game room.
I’m learning that It’s not uncommon for Floridians to use the garages for other purposes. Our 3-car garage, for example, has been converted into a golf simulator space which leaves room for only one of our vehicles. (sigh). Did I mention the importance of compromise?
Downsizing and making the most of your space is all about finding clever little ways to combine and condense your belongings, utilize the space you have to the max, and keep an open mind about the possibilities. Thanks to the pandemic, anyone who leads a laptop life knows that literally any space easily becomes an office—the back patio, beside the pool, the couch, etc.
Smart Empty Nester Purchases
While you may not want or need these things now, it’s never bad to plan ahead a bit—especially while you have the ear, expertise, and resources of a designer to help out. Some of the things I think make great empty-nester additions to your home are:
1) Battery operated candles. They are, of course, safer than flames, and good for aging in place. They are also safer for when the grandkids visit. If you miss aromatic candles, opt for plugins or diffusers, or these really cute candle warmer lamps.
2) Remote controlled shades which are cordless and safer. And so incredibly convenient. You don’t know how much you need remote controlled shades until you have them and then there’s no going back.
3) Nightlights or motion-sensor lights. Whether it’s just to help give the impression that someone is home at night when you’re not, or for those late night bathroom visits, when grandkids are over, or just to light up stairs and halls, motion-sensor lights and nightlights are musts.
If you’ve been an empty nester for a while and are just now getting around to revamping your space, or whether you’re moving or getting into the minimalist life, I hope these downsizing tips have helped!
Want help implementing empty-nester ideas or transitioning to the minimalist life? Get in touch! I can’t wait to collaborate with you.
