Project 2: Coastal crafting

Project Overview: Coastal Crafting Room

Objective

Transform an existing lounge/dining room into a functional craft room tailored for activities such as knitting, sewing, and various other crafts. The space will also include a relaxing area for reading and non-table activities.

Client Needs

Primary User: The client, lives alone but sometimes hosts friends for crafting sessions. The design needed to accommodate both individual and group activities, with suitable seating arrangements for guests.

Space Evaluation

The open-plan lounge/dining room’s structural layout supports the transition to a craft room. Key improvements focused on enhancing functionality with dedicated storage for diverse craft materials and optimising the space for both crafting and relaxation.

Must-Haves were:

• Natural Light: Maximise natural light to enhance the crafting experience.
• View: Ensure a pleasant view while using the sewing machine.
• Table Height: Provide an adjustable table for sewing and a suitable chair.
• Cutting Table: Include a foldable table for cutting that can be stored when not in use.
• Ironing Ledge: Incorporate a dedicated space for ironing.
• Comfortable Seating: Add a comfortable chair or sofa for relaxation.
• Working Wall: Install a wall for organising tools and materials.
• Pinboard: Feature a pinboard for displaying projects and ideas.
• Storage: Include ample storage for projects, materials, wool, tools, books, and patterns.
• Flooring: Opt for hard flooring with a rug to add comfort and ease of maintenance.

Nice-to-Haves:

• William Morris Patterns: Integrate these patterns to enhance the aesthetic appeal.
• Coastal Theme: Incorporate nautical elements in fixtures and furnishings.
• Social Space: Design an area for sitting, sharing, and creating with friends.

The transformed space has been divided into distinct areas and crafting stations to cater to various creative activities and general relaxation. It now supports crafting with friends, reading, and dedicated machine and cutting areas, with ample storage for crafting materials throughout.

The west-facing bay wall now houses the machining area, as requested by the client, providing a view of the garden and allowing access to the patio doors in warmer months. This area features accessible storage solutions and a working wall with peg and pinboards.

The former lounge area has been converted into a cutting and ironing zone, situated in front of the bay window. Additional storage has been incorporated into the north-facing section for projects, materials, wool, tools, books, and patterns.

To the left of the archway, a more relaxed and sociable crafting area has been established, complete with a sofa, comfortable chairs, and a side table. This area is well-lit to accommodate knitting and reading activities.