Hey, Dad—are you finding yourself suddenly single and starting completely over in a territory that’s foreign? Or have you been in a place for awhile that is, well, lackluster? Unless you’re blessed with the “designer gene” you are probably feeling a little lost as far as your space goes. Where do you begin? What paint choices do you make? How do you make that old sofa your parents gave you work? How are you going to date with Tonka toys and Barbies everywhere? How do you make a good purchase on a classic piece so that you don’t screw up your cool new condo? Do not panic—you can do this.
Design is about paying attention to the little things that truly make a difference in your lifestyle. That’s what really transforms any space into a home. You gents don’t realize it, but you’re already really gifted with the ability.
Now, before you start laughing, think about it. When you plan a Super Bowl party, I’m sure you don’t forget to get cable and a working television, invite friends and make sure that your beverages and food are in order ... See, you didn’t even realize that you’re a natural party planner all along. So keeping that in mind, you just need to apply similar skills when outfitting your new (or tired) digs. Details, mister!
The most important thing to remember is that you can do anything you set your mind to. If you desire a home that you enjoy really living in, then you need to take a little time to figure out what you need and want out of your space. This really isn’t all that difficult. It’s about searching for the things that you’re attracted to and figuring out how to incorporate them into your home and life. I’m talking about colors, textures and vibes.
So, for example, think about why you maybe love a certain color. Was that color blue you love the same as the eyes of a girl you had a crush on in school? Or maybe that color red that you’re completely crazy about was the same as a Mustang you dreamed about driving when only 14. Or perhaps that fishing trip to the lake with your family made a huge impact on you, when you were surrounded with the lush green trees and a tranquil lake, so you want to bring the mountain hues home to your city living environment.
Whatever you’re attracted to, I can guarantee that there is a connection to some place or someone. So start paying attention and dig up those memories. You might discover a few favorites you’ve simply just forgotten about. Start by using paint to incorporate the energy you want, and work from there. Before you know it you’ll be really living in your space.
So what can you do when you’re a bachelor dad to make the most of your space when your kids have taken over your place? Create a room or bedroom for them that’s specifically oriented for their entertainment. Let them take part in helping to create this special room so that they’ll truly have a connection to you and your home—especially if you don’t have them full time. They need to feel as though they have a place in your heart and home.
If you’re limited in funds and only have a one bedroom due to circumstances that it makes it a bit tougher, but not impossible, consider a day bed or trundle bed in the living room that can easily hide away when it’s not your weekend. It’s important for you to keep your own bedroom space during this transition.
If you are to date and then finally enter into a new relationship then your children won’t feel as though you’ve kicked them out of your room and they won’t become jealous. You need to maintain your privacy for yourself as well as your children. Make this experience fun, allow them to pick their own bedding and keep pajamas, some clothes, a toothbrush and toys to make them feel at home. Computers have become essential for homework these days. If you can swing it, make this a priority. They need to be able to easily go back and forth between homes and not disrupt schoolwork.
Clutter control is how you manage your life between being a dad and a bachelor. Choose furniture with the dual purpose of hidden compartments for toys and items you want to keep out of the way. Ottomans with storage and great leather boxes with lids that when stacked can double as an end table are easy to find. Find a trunk that can be used as a toy chest as well as a coffee table—you get the idea.
Remember you choose how to live your life and how your circumstances will dictate your lifestyle. You can be a dad and a bachelor— with a great home, too.
—Moll Anderson
What are you waiting for?
Change Your Home, Change the World™
www.mollandersonhome.com