Who and what for means who is living in that space you want to decorate and what is this place used for ? The layout and decoration should create the right environment and therefore consider who will spend time and what activities will take place in that space.
A room is seldom used for a single purpose. For example, a kitchen isn’t only a place for cooking but also could be where your guests gather to drink wine and socialize. It could also be used for eating once the meal is prepared. We must consider who occupies the space and the activities that take place.
Before decorating consider;
- Is the space used for entertaining guests, the immediate family or just yourself?
- Is the seating sufficient considering the purpose of the room?
- Is there a need for special access for someone with a disability?
- Will children need some extra space for playing games?
- Is the lighting sufficient for the purpose of the room (e.g.; reading or creating a warm atmosphere)?
- Does the space require acoustic considerations (e.g.; for music or loud conversation)?
- Is the room seldom used (e.g.; guest room)?
- In the kitchen:
- Do you entertain guests when cooking?
- Do you tend to eat meals in the kitchen?
- Do you use the kitchen as an office as well?
- … or in the bedroom:
- Is your bedroom also a retreat for relaxing, perhaps with a good book?
This essential steps seem so obvious that unfortunately it is often overlooked. My experience has confirmed that this step can make the difference between simply a decorated space without a purpose and an environment that stimulates both friends and family.