The Pärnu Women’s Support Center is a place of safety and new beginnings, offering psychological support and temporary shelter to those escaping domestic violence. When the center moved to a new home, its counselling rooms were still waiting to be turned into spaces that heal — places where conversations, group sessions, and art therapy could happen in comfort. That’s when IKEA interior designer Heily joined in, helping to create rooms filled with warmth, hope, and care.
Before – a temporary solution
The furnishings in the counselling room are temporary. Small rugs cover the cool floors. Document folders are stacked on the shelves, but there is not enough space for books and art supplies.For IKEA interior designer Heily Kaarna, the biggest challenge here was creating three separate areas in a small space. “These rooms are used for many purposes, and each activity needs its own place. At the same time, the whole space needs to feel cozy and safe so that people feel welcome here,” she says.
After – a calming and cosy multifunctional space
The newly furnished rooms are thoughtfully divided into a cosy counselling corner, an art therapy area with an extendable table, and a practical office zone. Calming shades of green fill the space, complemented by cheerful touches of yellow that bring energy and hope. Soft wool rugs gently separate the areas while adding warmth and comfort underfoot. Lush green plants complete the atmosphere, purifying the air and bringing a touch of nature indoors.
Set up a similar space
Environment that supports change
“Counselling begins the moment you step inside – do you feel expected, do you feel welcome? The space itself sets the tone,” says Margo, one of the center’s leaders, with a warm smile. “Every detail here is meant to help our visitors see that change matters.” The new environment doesn’t just comfort those who come seeking support – it also inspires and empowers the counsellors who guide them every day.
Smart solutions for multiple functions in minimal space
The counselling area features armchairs that provide both physical and emotional support with their high backs and embracing design. And the three color tones – energizing yellow, calming green, and elegant black-and-white – allow visitors to choose seating that resonates with their emotional state.For group sessions, Heily selected an extendable table that can accommodate up to ten people. "This flexibility means the room can adapt to different therapeutic needs without feeling cramped," she notes.
Practical and efficient office area
Since the counsellors occasionally need to do paperwork, the room includes a small desk with a comfortable office chair and a drawer unit for stationery. Documents and art supplies can now be neatly stored in a PAX cabinet or on open shelves. Folding chairs also have their designated spot nearby. Artwork on the wall-mounted picture shelves can be easily changed whenever desired, and a green curtain separates the consultation area from the workspace.
New look of the bathroom
The small bathroom, which also houses cleaning supplies, features an acacia wood shelf and a white trolley. Here too, calming tones prevail – whites, grays, and blues.Bathroom
Designer tips for furnishing a multifunctional space
- When planning a room, it is always important to measure the space and think through the entire layout.
- Write down all your needs and start thinking about how to fulfill them.
- It is important to pay attention to "surprises" in the wall, such as electrical panels, pipes, etc. that need to be accessible and hidden at the same time.
What was done before?
In previous seasons, IKEA interior designers shared their tips on how to furnish odd spaces, adapt homes to changing life situations, and organise all belongings. We have organised kitchens, children’s rooms, and bedrooms, set up a home office in the living room, furnished a tiny one-room apartment, upgraded premises for family business, and so much more.Previous makeovers
You could use some help?
If you'd like to renovate your home without a big investment or major repairs, you can always ask our interior designers for help. With your input and home furnishing style preferences, whether it be traditional or modern, our professionals will help you navigate our wide range of products and create a complete furnishing solution for one or multiple rooms, or for your entire home.Interior design service