Small Space Design Ideas That Are Attractive And Functional
Tiny homes are all the rage these days and while the trend is a bit extreme for most of us, a lot of people are opting for smaller homes and condos. The high cost of living in larger urban centers and the desire to not end up being house rich and cash poor are having an effect on many homeowners, of all ages.
Whether downsizing your current home or purchasing your first one, a small space doesn’t have to mean cramped and uncomfortable. With a few design tricks, even a smaller space can feel open and inviting.
Design In Small Spaces Tip #1: Furniture That Fits In The Living Room Or Bedroom
Yes, you might love the L shaped sofa with matching lounge chair that you saw at a local shop but will it fit? If you have less space, you have to be more creative in how you use it.
Need side tables when guests come? Nesting tables are the perfect solution for small spaces. You pull out the extra ones only when you need them and tuck them away when you don’t!
Need some hidden storage? Solve two problems with one piece of furniture: you have an extra seating area and an extra storage area, all in one pretty package.
Or perhaps a lovely chair / bookcase combo for the bedroom?
!nspire tip: Don’t use furniture with too much height in a low ceilinged room. It will give the appearance of towering over anyone in the space, which will make the room seem even smaller.
Design In Small Spaces Tip #2: Extras That Make Sense In The Kitchen Or Bathroom
Avoid clutter at all costs. Clutter only makes a small space seem even more cramped. Keeping counters and floors relatively clear means finding new ways to store the things you use every day so that they are accessible but not in the way.
Floor space at a premium for your pet’s bowls? The ideal is to make them disappear when not in use so you don’t tread on them (or in them!)
Counter space can’t take a block of knives? This ingenious – albeit pricey – design from Deglon is a fantastic replacement for the traditional wooden block:
Deglon Meeting Knife Set, Stainless Steel Knives and Block
If you have gadgets made of metal, cute magnetic stickers could be the solution to keep counter space a little clearer:
Design In Small Spaces Tip #3: Smoke And Mirrors Create Space Everywhere
Not literally, of course, but the strategic placement of mirrors, the right paint color and appropriately sized furniture can act like a trompe l’oeil – an optical illusion – that will create the impression of a larger space than actually exists.
Apartment Therapy has some great suggestions, including this one: “Create another window by placing a mirror next to or across from the real deal. The reflection maximizes the effect of natural light and pleasant outdoor views, allowing you to appreciate them from multiple angles.”
Shelving without the wall space? No need to resort to milk crates! Fun, funky shaped shelving is a great solution – and with the fact that the units have no back, they have a light look that won’t overwhelm.
Small spaces can still be great spaces, with a little thought and creativity. With the added bonus that there is less to clean, who wouldn’t opt for one?