How to Create Flow Within your HMO: Our top design tips
When it comes to designing a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO), creating a sense of flow within the space is essential. A well-thought-out, cohesive design helps your HMO function better which in turn will attract tenants and help them to stay longer term.
In this blog, we’ll look at how to achieve a flow within your HMO, making the most of every square inch and ensuring that the space feels both spacious and practical.
1. Maximise Your Space with Smart Layouts
One of the first steps in creating flow within an HMO is to focus on the layout. A well-considered floor plan will help you maximise the space and help the whole home to function better.
Start by creating open, shared spaces like kitchens, living areas, and dining zones that are spacious and accessible. Avoid overcrowding these areas with too much furniture or unnecessary partitions. If you can’t fit all three zones in then choose 2 and do those 2 really well. If possible, consider open-plan layouts for shared areas, as they encourage interaction and socialising while making the space feel larger.
Tip: If you do add a partition or divide, consider one that lets the natural light flow through it still, this will help to keep the whole space lighter.
2. Use a Cohesive Colour Palette
A consistent colour scheme can go a long way in creating flow throughout your HMO. By using consistent or complimentary colours across different rooms, you can really tie the spaces together. Neutral tones like whites, greys, and soft beige are needed in any scheme, think about how you can add these in through paint colours, bedding and accessories to help your other colours really sing.
It’s tempting to go bright and bold, which is great in communal spaces. But, try to tone this down in the bedrooms to keep those more calm and relaxing for your tenants.
Tip: Use colours with the same saturation (strength/brightness) across the property to help them feel more cohesive.
3. Prioritise Flow with your Furniture
Furniture plays a crucial role in maintaining flow within any space. In an HMO, it’s important to think about how each piece fits into the larger layout. Ensure that there is enough room for tenants to move freely between furniture pieces without feeling cramped. Opt for multi-functional furniture, such as storage beds or fold-out desks, to maximise space in smaller bedrooms.
In shared areas like kitchens and lounges, arrange furniture in a way that promotes conversation and movement. For example, placing seating in a circular or semi-circular arrangement can make the space feel more welcoming and inclusive. Avoid bar seating that faces the wall if you can.
Tip: When choosing furniture, get the sizing right. Add them into an online floorplan if you can to check everything you plan to buy will fit right.
4. Create Visual Connections Between Spaces
Creating flow is not just about physical movement but also about visual connectivity between rooms. This can be achieved by using open sightlines, where one room or area leads naturally to another. For instance, in an open-plan kitchen and living area, try to ensure that the transition from cooking to dining to relaxing feels seamless. You can do this by using consistent flooring or colour schemes across spaces, which helps maintain a sense of unity.
Additionally, try to place focal points, like a feature wall or a statement piece of furniture, in a way that guides the eye through the space. This creates a natural flow from one area to the next.
Tip: Use repetition of an element or colour throughout the property, this could be as simple as vertical lines which could show up as panelling, vertically laid tiles, geometric prints, striped cushions etc.
5. Incorporate Good Lighting
Lighting is crucial in any design and includes creating flow in an HMO. Natural light should be maximised wherever possible, as it not only enhances the mood but also helps to visually expand the space.
For rooms with less natural light, supplement with well-placed artificial lighting. Think about how you can layer your lighting with main lights, ambient lights (floorlamps, LED mood lights) and then task lighting (desk lamps etc).
Tip: Position lights strategically to highlight key features in the home, such as artwork, architectural details, or feature furniture.
6. Incorporate Storage Solutions
Storage is always a key consideration in any HMO. A clutter-free space is essential for maintaining a feeling of openness and flow. Storage doesn’t have to be dull though, there are lots of clever and pretty storage solutions out there now!
In bedrooms, consider built-in wardrobes, under-bed storage, or wall-mounted shelving to keep items off the floor and out of sight. In shared spaces, provide sufficient storage for communal items such as kitchenware and cleaning supplies. Using discreet storage solutions that blend seamlessly with the overall design ensures that the property remains organised and tidy.
Tip: Always try to build in a storage cupboard for things like your hoovers, mop, ironing board etc.
Our final thoughts on creating Flow within your HMO
Designing an HMO that flows seamlessly from one room to the next is crucial for maximising the space’s potential, improving tenant satisfaction, and ultimately increasing your returns. By focusing on layout, colour, furniture choices, lighting, and storage, you can create a well-balanced, functional home will be a joy to live in for your tenants.
If you’re looking to enhance the flow of your HMO, consider reaching out to Aben Interiors. Our team specialises in creating beautiful, functional spaces that are tailored to the needs of property investors and developers. Let us help you design an HMO that attracts the right tenants and boosts your investment’s value.
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