Ensuring comfort in everyday life can be achieved by taking into account the rules of ergonomics, which include practical layout and optimal placement of furniture. In this article, we will look at the main aspects of ergonomics in a flat that should be considered when carrying out renovation work.
Simplicity and functionality are key success factors
It is no secret that the overall impression of the interior is a key element in its success. Even a small flat can be made into a cosy space by avoiding unnecessary furniture. And make sure there are no redundant pieces: bulky furniture makes it feel cluttered, and that's something you should avoid. Make sure you don't have to negotiate obstacles when you move around the room, such as a coffee table, which should not block access to the sofa. In the bedroom, also consider the space between the bed and other furniture such as cabinets, nightstands and chests of drawers. To create a light and airy feel, use a pastel colour scheme and add ambient lighting.
Make your entrance hall feel welcoming
A functional entrance hall is essential for an ergonomic living space. It should be easy to store small items and clothes when you come home. Compact filing cabinets and wardrobes will help you do that. The presence of a comfortable bench with a shoe rack will raise the level of comfort for the whole family. If you don't have enough coat hooks or hangers in your hallway, we recommend choosing the right height for both adults and children. The same goes for shelves and cabinets: to get the most out of your space, don't install furniture at a height that is too high.
Furniture dimensions
It is also important that you choose the right size for your furniture. If you have small children, you need to make sure the space is suitable for them. In the bathroom or hallway, you can install extra hooks, and in the children's room, an ergonomic desk is recommended. Furniture can be roughly divided into three height groups. The first group includes furniture for sitting or changing shoes, which should be about 40-50 cm high. The second group consists of furniture with shelves, drawers and mirrors, which should be no higher than 200 cm. The third group, such as balcony cabinets or shelving units, can have a height limited only by the ceiling, but it is important to make sure that the contents are comfortable to use.
Bathroom
To create a highly functional bathroom, it is advisable to avoid unnecessary furniture and sanitary fittings. It is recommended to gradually install compact elements, starting with large ones. The distance between each piece of sanitary fittings must be at least 75 cm. It is important to be realistic in the choice of items, taking into account the possibilities of the room. For example, sometimes it might make sense to replace a full bathtub with a shower stall to make space for the washing machine.
Kitchen
The kitchen must be designed according to a working triangle principle: the total length from the refrigerator to the cooking area must not exceed six metres. A distance of 40 cm between cooker and sink is recommended, to prevent water from getting onto the fire. This space can be filled with a worktop, which should be made from durable materials such as wood, marble or granite. These materials work well with modern interior styles. It is also recommended not to place the refrigerator and other kitchen appliances next to the cooker, so as to avoid the heat affecting the appliances.
Storage systems
Having functional storage systems is an essential part of creating a functional interior. When installing cupboards and other large furniture, free space must be provided for opening drawers and doors. For standard furniture the optimum distance is 100-150 cm. If hinged furniture models take up a lot of space, they can be replaced with sliding models to save space and comply with ergonomic principles.
