My
favorite topic these days is "tiny homes" and "small
spaces". Decorating
a small space can be a challenging task, but using the tips I have provided
below can help you get
started in the right direction.
1. Provide enough
storage.
Try to find
furnishings that will give you multi-function capability for your small space.
You can even find chairs and ottomans that have storage areas inside
of them. Just lift up the top and there you will find space for blankets,
pillows or other items.
2. Use containers to
hide clutter.
Buy wicker
baskets or steamer type trunks to store out-of-season clothing, linens and
towels. They will look great and contain all of those small items that make a
room look cluttered.
3. Use mirrors to
reflect the light.
A large mirror or
several small mirrors placed strategically can make a small space
feel lighter and larger. If you like a more modern style of decorating,
furniture and tables with metal or glass can visually expand the space.
4. Don’t block the
light.
Covering every window
with blinds and draperies can make a small room feel dark and crowded. Leave
windows bare or only cover with sheer draperies to let the light
shine through. Light always makes a space seem larger.
5. Place furniture in
rooms.
Try to create specific
areas for specific activities. Put a bed and dresser in one area for the
bedroom and a sofa and coffee table in another area. Having your apartment
furnishings put any-old-way can make it cluttered and uninviting. You might
have to leave out the bed and use a sleeper sofa, Murphy bed, or another
type of concealed bed application if your apartment is super-small.
6. Create a focus.
If you are lucky
enough to have a fireplace, accentuate it. Even if you don’t have a
natural focal point, create one. Painting just one wall a different color will
draw the attention into the room and make it seem bigger. Put a large credenza
or entertainment center on that wall and decorate it with beautiful
accessories. Play up any view that will bring the outside in.
7. Use dividers for
larger apartments/spaces.
You can find beautiful dividers in
both thrift shops and high end furniture stores. Use them to enclose various
areas of your space. I saw an episode on HGTV where they used four beautiful
wooden dividers to make a separate bedroom. It not only provided a private
sleeping area, but also created another wall on which to place furniture and
art.
8. Keep clutter at
bay.
When you have a small
area, clutter is not an option. Too many knick-knacks and too much or furniture
that is too big can visually and physically crowd a space. Keep your necessary
items, such as extra bed linens put away in a dresser or wicker
baskets. Kitchen counters should be kept clean with everything in the cupboards
if possible.
9. Another trick for a
small space is to buy furniture with legs and that are higher off of
the floor.
Your eye will look
under these pieces of furniture and add visual space. Furniture that is
blocky and low to the
ground makes a room appear more crowded.
10. Paint with lighter
colors. You don’t have
to use white, but using paint colors that are lighter in color expands a space
more than dark colors.
___________________
Linda Quiggle can be
reached at 806-355-9601. Prudential, Ada REALTORS is an independently
owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc., a Prudential
company, an Equal Housing Opportunity.
Okay, this home is definitely NOT intended for full time living. It is very cute and well organized with all the essentials - well maybe not all, there is no toilet or shower facilities.
