Designing The In-Between Space With Schönbuch

We all have them. The awkward little nooks of the home that are notoriously tricky to style. Fortunately, there is one Bavarian brand who has chosen to dedicate themselves entirely to in-between spaces.

In their expansive, colourful universe, hallways become calling cards. And even the tightest of corners are made functional and cosy. The secret? A series of nifty little designs. And a belief that no space should be left to chance.  

A Warm Welcome

First impressions count. And as the space that constitutes our first and last experience of home, the hallway deserves a lot more attention than it usually receives. So how do we make this small area, so prone to fluster and bustle, beautiful?

 Schönbuch like to start by building out a space for the flotsam and jetsam of contemporary life. Think shoes, keys, and all the other little bureaucracies of being.

In more spacious pads, it might be a floating cabinet with hidden shoe cabinets. Or else a stylish console table, complete with a concealed opening or drawer. Both work towards the same end — stopping clutter in its tracks.

Another way to encourage loved ones to slow down in this high traffic area is to make seating a priority. And while you may be able to slip on your shoes on the stairs, elderly relatives will likely be better served by something taller. A Petite bench works wonders here, placed parallel to the staircase or alongside any console furniture. A daily reminder to take your time in what is now a wonderful, welcoming space. 

Hidden Treasures

For a long time, tight corners were referred to as dead space — zones that were better left blank than filled haphazardly. And yet, as our homes have started to work harder, we’ve come to believe that every space has a role to play in the dance of domesticity.  

There are a couple of tricks that can be used to brighten up such spots. Greenery is one. A carefully placed floor mirror is another. For a nonchalant, Parisian feel, look for a floor mirror that can be leant casually against the wall. As well as adding decorative appeal to a tight spot, it will help open up your space by reflecting more luminous portions of the room back at you.

Attics, Alcoves & Everything In Between

Throughout the pandemic, we saw a spike in the number of enquiries for single-purpose rooms. And whether it was a library, study, Zen room or greenhouse, the shift spoke to more than just a desire for compartmentalisation.

The majority of these new or returning rooms were tech-light spaces —zones in which older forms of connection are upheld and prioritised. So while few architectural quirks create ire like a nonsensical alcove, it’s what you do with them that counts. If it’s an out-of-use attic, consider transforming it into a beautiful third space — a spot for reflection, productivity or just to give one thing your entire focus. 

It’s an idea that’s beautifully displayed in the room above. A light-filled loft, once derelict, transformed into a functional home office.

It’s a technique that can also be applied to smaller niches or alcoves. If floor-to-ceiling storage is out of the question, try slotting a desk there instead. Schönbuch’s new Akira unit features slide out tables, so no matter the width available, you can still create a generous workspace.  

In paying attention to the in-between spaces, Schönbuch bring to mind something our Creative Director mentioned long ago. The secret of a great home is all in the details. Open up the wardrobe and there’s a special drawer for belts and jewels. In the hallway? A wooden stand for sorting letters.

They might seem like a inconsequential ideas at first. And yet we’ve found that when every aspect of your home works hard, some of the more banal aspects of domesticity get easier. Routines become rituals. And everyday life feels extraordinary.