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The Party Room
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October, 2009

By Heather Ann Scott
 
The infamous party room, almost every condo has one left empty and often dark. Is there a reason that these rooms for the most part remain dead spaces? Of course, they were designed that way.
 
As an amenity, the idea of a party room is appealing for condo unit owners who live in small spaces and think it a bonus to have a big beautiful room to throw a party for that special occasion. But not many people end up using it. We all have birthdays once a year and holiday traditions and occasions to celebrate like anniversaries or a birth. But the idea of booking reception-style rooms for parties may be outdated since the rooms aren’t really that great and they serve a very limited use.

  

Designers know that form follows function and that aesthetics add value, therefore a square room with a small kitchen and finished with typical wallcovering and carpet is a classic example of “it is what it is” and it’s not very appealing or valuable. So what would be a better design for these rooms? Let’s start first by opening up the door with availability.

If the space was open for use most of the time, it would automatically expand the limited function of the room from just a party room. Availability would mean the usage would have to be variable for day and night and desirable for both, a multi-function common space.  The idea is not to eliminate the ability to have a private function, but to enhance the existing facility to include everyday benefits.

It’s already equipped with a kitchen, tables and chairs, how about a little service please? A private vendor could make use of the kitchen and serve a limited daily menu – a quick breakfast and coffee in the morning, coffee and biscuits in the afternoon or a fresh health shake or power bar after exercise. With the installation of a second lockable fridge and a roll down pantry, the space receives a major upgrade for the use and value of the facility.

Now that we’ve added food service, take a look at technology. Would residents find value in free wireless internet service in this common area? It’s easy to bring a laptop in, and more private than a coffee shop. For those who work at home, perhaps the change of scenery or ability to meet a client would be well served. And for some who are occasional internet users, this might mean savings and convenience, a real bonus. Consider adding screens or projectors with satellite TV and video services so residents can catch the news, watch a sporting event or view a personal production at an event, maybe a birthday memorial.
 
Practical functions must meet with an attractive and comfortable atmosphere to invite people to use it. Lighting and sound are key elements.  The quality of light has an enormous effect on the mood of any space. Varying light sources with multiple controls such as switching and dimmers will provide flexibility for different settings throughout the day and night. How the space makes you feel is as important as what you do there.
 
Making these changes can offer many improvements and services added but its appeal comes primarily from appearances. The room should be a blend of commercial appeal and residential comfort. A mixture of furnishings and seating areas with optional lounge settings can divide the space’s energy and functions. Consider the appeal of a favourite restaurant, coffee shop or lounge. It’s the design that brings repeat business. The use of interesting materials and colours, attention to detail and focal points create an ambience that is comfortable but not too familiar.
 
Consider the ceiling, for example. It shouldn’t look like a bedroom or living room. Reflective surfaces used creatively will greatly enhance the use of lighting, sparkle and movement throughout.  There’s one more aspect that will make a dramatic difference, replace the basic building door with a glass entry door, open up and let the energy flow.
 
When there’s a party, the room is booked as usual except there is nothing quite usual about this party room. Rearrange the furniture, adjust the mood lighting, connect a laptop or iPod to the sound system, turn on the visuals tune in to MTV, it’s party time. A new generation has arrived and it is time to evolve into a better design.
 

Heather Ann Scott can be reached at info@heatherannscott.com or 416-591-8404.
 

  
 
 
 
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