Even the smallest spaces can prove to be functional spaces. The key in dealing with small spaces is streamlining, assigning it a function and maximizing the square footage available.
Workstations are easy spaces to create almost anywhere. Landings, nooks, open, large closets and even kitchens.
Storage:
• We’ll start thinking vertically again! Bins: Pile them high and label them for easy access
• Closets: Installing two (2) to four (4) horizontal rods instead of the typical long horizontal rod will double or even quadruple your hanging space. Unless you are fortunate enough to own a bevy of ball gowns (and use them!), the smaller rods are a perfect solution. Between you and me, ball gowns should have their own private space anyway.
• Shelves for shoes, belts and hand bags keep the space organized, tidy and readily available.
Bay Windows: A beautiful, architectural element to any space but people often wonder what to do with the somewhat awkward space left over. Forego the array of tropical plants we often see and consider a reading area with two small, comfortable chairs and a functional table.
Better yet, a reading nook with a custom made (a simple d.i.y. project) with all your favorite books housed underneath and a cozy cushion on top for you and not your plants, to bask in the sun. If the window is in a spare bedroom why not add a day bed for little ones visiting with their parents?
A Small Entry Way? This I can relate to. With a small closet and narrow entry way numerous guests arriving at the same time can prove challenging. A narrow bookcase, turned on its side and dressed up with cushions provides bench seating and a place for storing shoes and boots!
In The Kitchen:
• Lacking counter space? Rolling bakery carts can provide a great workspace and double purpose as a serving cart when guests arrive.
Don’t be afraid to leave your dishes and glassware on display if cupboard space is lacking. There are great decorative shelves out the made for just that!
• With many apartments/condos being built with galley kitchens, break out the barstools and try countertop eating. This element is quickly becoming a part of every day design.
• A small, 2-seater dining table (preferably round as it takes up less space) is also great for coffee and reading the morning paper.
• Consider custom booth seating (similar to what you see in restaurants) for larger families. Booths take up wall space versus floor space and the tables can be moved and used at different angles.
Custom Furniture:
Do not overlook custom furniture out of fear! It is not significantly more expensive and contrary to big box furniture, custom furniture is built to last! Having worked as a Sales Manager for a custom furniture manufacturer and assisted with restaurant, commercial buildings and hotel designs, buying direct from the manufacturer is any designers dream!
Small Space Hints: There are many companies designing for smaller spaces now. Here’s what to look for:
• Living Room: Forego bulky furniture as this take up more space. Look for clean lines and low back furnishings.
• Televisions: Flat panels, installed directly on the wall save valuable floor space. No flat panel? Install a low corner cabinet to house bulkier televisions.
• Bedrooms: Use gorgeous shelves, installed at the appropriate height instead of night stands. Invest in a tall armoire with both doors and shelves instead of long dressers. Armoires are also great for hiding entertainment equipment in the bedroom such as televisions (a bedroom no-no!) and CD players.
• Children’s Rooms (Teens too!): Shelves, shelves and more shelves. Decorative baskets or funky containers installed directly on the walls. These hold small trinkets and toys leaving the floors clean, and keeping you from stepping on them in the middle of the night (we’ve all experienced that!)
They are also great for portable game players, CD’s, magazines and IPODs.
Age appropriate loft beds with a workstation underneath are great for school aged children and teens.
Lastly, remember that furniture does not always need to be placed along your walls. Really it doesn’t. Play with your space, you’re bound to be pleasantly surprised.
Custom Furniture:
Do not overlook custom furniture out of fear! It is not significantly more expensive and contrary to big box furniture, custom furniture is built to last! Having worked as a Sales Manager for a custom furniture manufacturer and assisted with restaurant, commercial buildings and hotel designs, buying direct from the manufacturer is any designers dream!
Small Space Hints: There are many companies designing for smaller spaces now. Here’s what to look for:
• Living Room: Forego bulky furniture as this take up more space. Look for clean lines and low back furnishings.
• Televisions: Flat panels, installed directly on the wall save valuable floor space. No flat panel? Install a low corner cabinet to house bulkier televisions.
• Bedrooms: Use gorgeous shelves, installed at the appropriate height instead of night stands. Invest in a tall armoire with both doors and shelves instead of long dressers. Armoires are also great for hiding entertainment equipment in the bedroom such as televisions (a bedroom no-no!) and CD players.
• Children’s Rooms (Teens too!): Shelves, shelves and more shelves. Decorative baskets or funky containers installed directly on the walls. These hold small trinkets and toys leaving the floors clean, and keeping you from stepping on them in the middle of the night (we’ve all experienced that!)
They are also great for portable game players, CD’s, magazines and IPODs.
Age appropriate loft beds with a workstation underneath are great for school aged children and teens.
Lastly, remember that furniture does not always need to be placed along your walls. Really it doesn’t. Play with your space, you’re bound to be pleasantly surprised.
