I've been fortunate to harness alot of life lessons of late, turning lemons into lemonade if you will, and as a result have been passing some of those lessons to design clients and friends alike. After spending the last few years with aging parents while raising and launching kids and all that life brings at you during what I call "the middle years," I know now that I want to work towards downsizing sooner rather than later in life.
Just before my Dad's passing last year, my sisters and I were making plans to move him from the 4 bedroom house he shared with my Mom up until her death the year before and into an assisted living facility. Literally the day he passed away, we moved our old twin boys off to university. I can't make this stuff up. Now in their second year, our older sons are enjoying apartment life (including a furniture rental package which is another story for a different day).
Urban living, whether apartment, duplex, townhome, or assisted living facilities, has become more common and smaller living spaces are emerging as a standard choice for many. There is definite appeal to living in smaller spaces and buildings from a lower level of maintenance requirements and some would argue, a safer living environment. While they do come with challenges, they also provide an excellent canvas for creative design solutions for small spaces. Based on both my personal and professional experience, I know that smart design turns even the coziest apartments and living spaces into functional and inviting homes. This post offers practical strategies to enhance small spaces through thoughtful tips on design choices.
Smart Design Solutions for Small Spaces
Understanding the Importance of Space Optimization
Maximizing functionality in small areas is crucial to living comfortably. Space optimization goes beyond cramming in more furniture; it focuses on creating an efficient layout that suits daily life. We start every design plan with an overall floor plan.
When deciding how to lay out your own space, its imperative that you first consider how you envision actually utilizing each space. Remember, an effective configuration can make a room feel larger and more usable. Also, don't be afraid to flip flop areas! For instance, if you eat most meals out or don't cook at all, you might consider incorporating a dining space into more of a living space. Or you might consider using your dining table as an at home office space. Your space, you choose.
Innovative Furniture Choices
The right furniture is the foundation of transforming a small space. Don't assume that any existing furniture you have will automatically fit in a smaller space. Also, look for pieces that combine utility with style.
Multi-Functional Furniture
Select furniture that serves several purposes. A sofa bed can be a smart choice for small apartments, providing seating during the day and a comfortable bed at night. #instantguestroom A coffee table with built-in storage can hold blankets, bedding, books and magazines, or even just small clutter like remotes - all in one place. In fact, a study found that multifunctional furniture can hide up to 30% of visible clutter in small spaces.
Scale Matters
Choosing appropriately sized furniture prevents overwhelming a room. Most retailers now offer "apartment sized" furniture that's designed on a smaller scale. Remember that lightweight pieces will facilitate easy rearrangement, allowing you to adapt your space for different occasions. A compact sofa or a slim dining table can provide comfort and utility without sacrificing space.
Clever Storage Solutions
Storage is essential in any home but especially in a small one. Innovative solutions to storage will keep your living areas (and you) more organized, making your home feel not only functional but also tidy and who doesn't want that!?!
Vertical Storage
Utilizing vertical space is a game changer in a smaller living abode. Consider installing shelves or storage shelving units that reach towards the ceiling to maximize storage while keeping the floor clear. For example, using a tall bookshelf can hold a substantial number of books and decorative items, enhancing any room’s character and organization without cluttering it. You can even use one to hold dishes and kitchen gear should your kitchen be t-tiny and without alot of cabinet space.
Under-Bed Storage
The area beneath your bed is often underutilized. Invest in storage bins or drawers that fit neatly underneath. Effective under-bed storage helps to reduce visible clutter and increase storage and organization, making your sleeping areas feel more spacious.
Color Schemes and Lighting
Choosing the right colors and lighting can significantly alter the perception of space in a small room.
Light and Airy Colors
Use neutral colors for walls and larger furniture items like sofas. If you can paint your space, consider using shades of soft whites or light griege that reflect natural light and can make a space feel larger. Adding accessories in brighter colors and patterns, such as vibrant throws, pillows or art, can provide pops of color that are easily changeable as your tastes evolve.
Strategic Lighting
Good lighting is essential in all spaces but especially in small spaces. A well-lit area feels larger and more inviting. Here at NLI, we use a mix of ambient lighting, such as overhead ceiling fixtures, with task lighting like floor and/or table lamps to create depth of light in a room. In smaller bedrooms, we use wall-mounted fixtures to free up table space.
Creating Zones
Defining specific areas in a small space creates organization that enhances its usability leading to an overall more functional living environment.
Define Areas with Rugs
Rugs not only serve a practical purpose giving softness underfoot but also add warmth and aesthetic value to the overall design. Area rugs are also effective for visually separating different activities in a room. For example, a small plush rug can identify a cozy reading nook, while a sleek one can outline the workspace.
Furniture Arrangement
How furniture is arranged can also establish zones. For example, positioning your workstation directly across from a small seating area creates separate, defined spaces for productivity and relaxation. Experiment with different layouts and pieces until you find the arrangement that best suits your lifestyle. If you love to put your feet up at the end of a long work day, consider using an ottoman as a coffee table. Added bonus if its a storage ottoman. Remember too when planning your space to allow for room to move around, between or through furniture and walkways. #floorplanningisyourfriend
Space-Saving Gadgets
Opt for compact kitchen gadgets that maximize functionality. For example, a folding dish rack can save counter space, while magnetic knife strips can declutter your counters and improve safety. Drawer dividers can go a long way in getting or keeping your space tidy. Implementing these clever solutions can make tight spaces feel much more organized and efficient.
Personal Touches
Adding personal elements makes a small space feel like home. Your personality should shine through in your decor choices.
Artwork and Decor
Choose pieces that resonate with you, such as personal photographs or artwork. Placing art at eye level draws the eye upward, creating a sense of height while showcasing your style. Incorporate a mixture of frames and prints to add visual interest without taking up valuable floor space.
Plants and Greenery
Incorporating plants can bring life into small areas. Compact plants, such as succulents or small plants and trees, are perfect for tight corners. They not only improve air quality but also enhance the overall aesthetic of your space without overwhelming it.
Embracing Design for Small Living
Whether its just temporary or more of a long term living situation, the key to smaller space living lies in understanding your specific needs and lifestyle and being open and adaptable. Transforming a small living space into a functional and attractive environment hinges on smart design choices, creativity, and thoughtful planning up front. By selecting multifunctional furniture, maximizing storage options, implementing thoughtful color schemes, and establishing clear organized zones, you can unlock the full potential of any small living area.
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