Small homes and studios
Multi-use storage Circulation Design for Small homes and studios
Give people and equipment a route that remains usable during normal work, arrivals and cleaning.
Explore the ideas
Plan in this order
- Map separately who enters, what they carry and where they turn or pause.
- Move stopping points out of through routes, especially beside doors and intersections.
- Put the largest regularly moved item on the plan and trace the full trip, including both ends.
Worked example
A family bathroom is shared in the morning, and one person needs the sink while another reaches the shower.
Arrange the basin access so it does not require crossing the shower’s wet area. Mock up door and towel positions and rehearse two people moving through the room.
How to test it
Run two movements at once during the test walk. Note which person must stop, reverse or step into another activity.
Apply it to this space
- Layout
- Concentrate tall storage along one wall and keep frequently used items at reachable heights.
- Detail
- Use adjustable shelves and a ventilated section for cleaning equipment.
- Trade-off
- One large storage wall is efficient but can make the room feel narrower.
- Inventory items before sizing shelves
- Check doors do not collide with furniture
The Elixir portfolio
Details worth a closer look
