As a newly single dad, one has plenty of worries to address as one embarks on a completely new chapter of life. While there is a lot of emotional baggage weighing you down, there are all these responsibilities that you don’t have a partner to share with anymore. All things considered, single life may begin on a fairly tense note to be a cool dad.
One of the things that can get a single dad started on the right foot is figuring out his living arrangement. Setting up a home that feels like you and is filled with things you love will help you brave the hard days, and make you more grateful for the good ones. It is also nice to have a space that matches your personality, while also celebrating those of your children so that they may feel at home when they come over.
There is a lot to consider when setting up a single cool dad’s pad; one that is not quite a man-cave, but more of a safe haven that will let you feel safe, warm and comfortable. So let’s get right into all the tips and tricks one must keep in mind while designing a cool single dad’s abode…
Location Matters
This is a no-brainer; picking a child-friendly location is the first step in the right direction. As a single cool dad, you’ll be having your kids at your place very often and you’ll want them in a neighbourhood that is safe, and where they have access to recreational facilities and places where they can interact with other kids their age. A place that is close to their school is a definite plus.
Functionality is Key
While it may seem like a good idea to fill your space with foosball tables, snooker sets and garish furniture that are all attributes of the much-desirable ‘man-cave’ concept, think again. Such décor often only provides momentary satisfaction as opposed to fulfilling a purpose. A general flow to your living space is necessary in order to bring structure to your life. Make sure your home is clutter-free and clean. Pick furniture that is comfortable and multifunctional, bedding that has you sleeping like a baby and a dedicated workspace for yourself, which you can have the children share. Make sure you have a well thought out space for your kids to sleep and spend time in when they are spending the night too!
Be Storage Savvy
We know you’re fretting about where the extra shoes and socks, bed linen, stationery and knick-knacks will go. There is a trick to picking furniture that will end all of your storage woes. And we’re not talking about storage units. We’re talking about multifunctional storage savvy solutions – such as poufs with storage underneath, storage benches, sideboards and book shelves that can fit boxes and baskets in their cavities, and pegboards with little hung canisters that will store all pens, colour pencils and crayons off the table’s surface.
Frame It
A picture wall somewhere in your home is a must! Create a gallery wall with framed photographs that capture the essence of some of the most beautiful moments in your life. Not only will the photographs remind you of good times, they will also put your children more at ease and are great conversation starters when you have friends over.
All About You
Do your bedroom up the way you like. This is one part of your new home that doesn’t have to include inputs from your kids when decorating. Choose a colour scheme that soothes you and furniture pieces that fit your vision. Ensure you don’t clutter your space with too many pieces, three-four major pieces make for a balanced layout. Before you design your room, introspect to make sure you don’t replicate your room at your previous home. Reflecting change in your room’s design will help you better adjust to your new situation.
Up the Cool Quotient
A statement piece of décor will go a long way in making your space feel unique, and impressing the kids, of course! Maybe you can have a chalk wall, and write grocery lists and reminders on it. Or a faux graffiti wall or a personalised mural will bring some oomph. You could also consider statement furniture, like a swing suspended from the ceiling for some pizzazz.
Creative Corner
There are so many things your kids love doing, such as playing an instrument, crafting, drawing, painting, playing board games, watching movies…and so many of these moments have been shared with you in the past. Bring all of your children’s favourite activities into your space to add oodles of familiarity that will have them feeling more at home, ensure that they know you care about paying attention to little details, and will give you a chance to create new memories with them.