How to set up a space for family hobbies at home

Among all the new activities we started using our homes for lately, our hobbies had to be fit inside as well. The research shows that 39% of people in Estonia now would like to create or improve a space at home, where they could pursue their interests. This is why our interior designer is here to share some ideas on how to set up one without significant cost and effort.

Movable hobbies station
To set up a movable hobby station, you can use a trolley that takes up little space and can be placed or rolled anywhere at home. Use the trolley to keep sports, handcrafts or painting equipment where you need it: next to your desk, by the sofa or anywhere else. 
 

“For people living in smaller spaces, every square meter counts. New activities in a limited home space demand flexible and versatile solutions. We need not only the space to pursue hobbies, but also a dedicated place for our hobby-related equipment, so that all items needed for sports, painting, sewing or handcrafts do not create mess and are easy to reach.” 

No more sports equipment lying on the floor 
If you share the apartment with other family members and lack space for your gym classes or sports equipment, try the solution that will only cost you a few euros. Maximise your storage space by using empty walls instead of the limited floor space. Attach hook racks to the wall in your hallway or another empty corner at home and set up a personal gym space to place your yoga mat, weights, resistance bands, etc. The same solution might work as well with your music instruments or other stuff.

Under the bed
Cannot find any empty wall? Use the space under your sofa or bed. Of course, it doesn't mean you have to just lay your personal items on the floor to collect dust – use some storage cases instead.

“Such cases take up little room, as they fold flat when not in use. They are easy to pull out, help to store your personal hobbies equipment within reach, and make it easier for you to keep the space under your bed clean and tidy.” 

Small organisers matter
A good-looking storage box or basket with knitting tools in the living room, a mini chest of drawers for sewing or decoupage tools on the desk, and other small organisers can serve for both decluttering and decorating your home.
 

“If you need some space to store handcrafts equipment or other small items, use pegboards. With all the accessories, they allow to create your own small storage combination that can be attached to the wall, your desk or a shelf.” 

Proper lighting is the key
Either it is reading, handcrafts or yoga classes – lighting plays a crucial role. Functional lighting is important not only when you work, but also when you want to pursue personal interests in the same room as other family members. A personal source of light, such as a clamp spotlight, provides comfort and creates a psychological feeling of privacy. Lighting it up might also be a sign for others that you now want to enjoy your undisturbed quiet "me-time". 

The Whole Life at Home
We believe that home is the most important place in the world. This is why every year IKEA conducts a global research called “Life at home”. Last year, we focused on exploring the impact of the global pandemic on our relationship with home now and in the years to come.