Design becomes extra challenging when you’re dealing with limited space. Ironically, it’s also what makes it fun. What interior-design hacks can you employ to get around the limitations of a meager square footage?
As interest in sustainable living continues to grow in the past few years, more people are starting to consider a lifestyle change, one that is founded on the principle that less is more. Akin to the equally popular trend of minimalism, this lifestyle advocates for retaining only the essentials and letting go of the excess so you can focus on the things that matter in life.
As romantic as that may sound, practical application of this principle doesn’t always come easy. And this is no less apparent than in your own personal space—especially if you’re one of the thousands of Americans who’ve decided to follow the trend and settle into small family homes.
To begin with, the limited space is a setback, but designing your small space without sacrificing luxury and style is perfectly doable. Here are some tips.
Use Open Shelving
Having a roomful of storage if you’re working with limited space footage can close up space and make the room look cramped. Instead, opt for open shelving. This allows you to reserve room for your stuff while also maintaining a fresher, airy ambience.
This tip is especially useful in the kitchen. Simply install shelves above the counter. If you don’t want dust to get into your kitchenware, you can opt for sliding glass doors instead of closed, opaque cabinets. Here are some great ideas for you to follow.
Another great use of open shelving is by using a floor-to-ceiling divider that you can also use to define the areas that separate your living room from your kitchen space. In the bathroom, open ladder shelving is another trendy design you can try.
Define Divisions
Using open floor plans is usually how most small homes roll. This is done to maximize the use of what space is available. Nevertheless, creating divisions is not a bad decision. To effectively define space without making the room look too confined, create subtle room separators like a column or half-height walls. Do not block the flow of light.
Using curtain dividers is another smart way to create temporary divisions in open floor homes. Use sheer curtains, preferably one with a little bit of gloss or shine so the light is reflected instead of absorbed.
Don’t Go Cheap on Statement Pieces
Choose furnishings that can render maximum functionality. And instead of using a mishmash of small furniture pieces, go for the big ones. Although that may sound counterintuitive, this can actually make the space look grander.
Invest in accessories and statement pieces that draw attention and create impact. For example, when working with your window treatments, consider having floor-to-ceiling curtains. Draw the height up by adding a notable statement piece that stands out. If you don’t want much design on your curtains, an ornate curtain finial with crystal or highly elaborate wrought-iron bases will get the job done.
Get Creative with Lighting
Using natural light to illuminate your home is not only a healthy advice for homeowners; it’s also great on cutting down your electricity costs. To let in as much natural light into your home as possible, work with your windows.
Go for single drape sets or sheer curtains of neutral to light shades. You may also invest in replacement windows with low-E coating, which blocks less sunlight. Or you can tear down walls and replace them with glass blocks.
If for some reason this is not an option in your situation, you can take advantage of lifted lighting. Pendant lighting and wall sconces do wonders to illuminate not just the lower part of the room but also the ceiling. This stretches the space vertically and can make the room look higher.
Choose a Lighter Palette
To complement your lighting setup, select a palette with a unified theme. Continuity in your walls can make the room look bigger, and with lighter paint, light is well-facilitated. Use warm, soft tones that for a cozy appeal. You may use opaque tones for a punch of color but pare them down with fair, pale, or pastel tones.
Conclusion
These are just some of the most common design hacks you’ll find useful when decorating your tiny space. Once you understand how certain design principles work, you’ll be having plenty of fun experimenting with your own creative ideas. Try them out, and see your home transform.