Welcome to the small space age
Compact living spaces are a boon for the environment - lower carbon footprint and all that. But, let's face it, small spaces are a hassle for those who like their clutter and a feeling of freedom. Modest luxury is all about doing the most with the space you have - so try these ideas on for size.
Think on high.
The window is the key to looking out at the world from a small space, and most of us neglect the dead space beneath a window - it could be used for a bookshelf or built-in cupboard.
Most bookshelves, storage units and wardrobes are only 1.8 metres or so tall - leaving at least a gaping great storage possibility above them. The best long term solution to living well in smaller space is to build everything in - maximise every centimetre of space by taking cabinetry to the ceiling and utilising the full width of the walls.
Open shelving is the cheapest way to build in extra storage - and an artful eye can make it look wondrous with vignettes of lovely collections or books shelved in certain colour schemes and styles - but the fact is that closed storage works better for most of us. Shoving the less attractive necessities of life behind a closed door is way easier.
Less really is more - so make furniture do double duty.
The fact is that small spaces require greater restraint - you need to think twice before you bring more guff, stuff and clutter inside your front door. The best small spaces whittle their furnishing needs down to the bare, functional necessities. Maybe you only need one sofa and a special chair rather than an entire lounge suite? And only four compact dining chairs around a small table rather than the grand antique formal dining suite?
Raised sofas on small legs make the floor space seem larger than a sofa that's upholstered all the way to the floor. And super-low sofas help a small room feel bigger - but could be harder to haul yourself up out of after a long TV-watching session.
Coffee tables in front of a sofa can take up precious circulation space - stick to side tables or stools that can multi-function as extra seating and side tables.Other great furniture options for small spaces are ottomans that double as storage boxes, coffee tables that transform into dining tables, folding tables that can be expanded when needed and coffee tables with storage underneath.
Mirror Mirror, make it big
Adding more light and reflecting it around a room really does open up a space. Frosted glass doors work to add a greater sense of space - and then using feature mirrors to bounce that light around even more can be a help. Glossy floor tiles or shiny cabinetry are other mirror-like tricks to resort to if you don't like mirrors.
Light right
Small white living rooms with lots of natural light can be made to feel like a clinical waiting room if the artificial lighting doesn't complement it. Warm table lamps are an inviting lighting trick to make you feel like cocooning yourself.
Customising lighting for a small space is a great way to keep the floor area clear - think wall lights by the beds to save space on bedside tables or even lighting the strip of wall behind a sofa in a living area.
Clutter Contol
We all like our bits and pieces around us, but instead of trying to personalise your space with loads of photos, vases and ornaments - just have one large, gorgeous collection in a well thought out display area. It will add visual impact and keep the room looking less cluttered.
As for space-saving, don't forget to use the backs of doors for hooks or small baskets. And inside wardrobe doors is another great place to add hooks for belts and bags. And make like Carrie Bradshaw in the kitchen, and use your oven as extra storage space. You might not want to put jumpers in it (like she did) but you can store your baking trays and dishes in the oven.
And then read more on http://www.renovationplanning.com.au to implement true clutter busting solutions that will change your life. See! You really can have grand design, no matter how small the space.
Alex Brooks
http://www.renovationplanning.com.au
Author of Planning Your Perfect Home Renovation
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