How to Decorate a Stunning Small Space

Designing and decorating a space is all about perception, functionality and aesthetics. As I've mentioned in previous posts I believe a space should tell a story by it's design. The best designed spaces are not determined by the square footage but by its success in achieving functionality and style.

If you have a small space like an extra room, a loft area, an office OR maybe you just have a small space like an apartment in the city. You too can have a stunning space! Here are 3 things you should consider when designing a small space.

1. Find the Purpose. I know, I know...I've said this before but it's key to successfully designing a small space. Before you get into a car you have to know your destination, right? It's the same thing here. Ask yourself these questions and be as descriptive as possible. "How do I want to use this space?" Who is this space for?" "How do I want to feel in the space". This is the first step to solving your design needs.

2. Use Multifunctional Pieces. Since you don't have a lot of square footage to work with you should be creative with your furnishings. Use stylish pieces that have more than one function. For example, an ottoman can serve as A) a coffee table by putting a tray on top B) additional seating and C) a footrest. Another example is a console. It can be used as A) a stylish TV stand B) a low bookcase and C) storage.

ideas for decorating a small apartment

ideas for decorating a small apartment

3. Scale. Scale. Scale. One of the elements of design is scale. Proper scale is key to creating a well balanced space. Have you ever walked into a room and the sofa was too big that it made the room feel even smaller or have you seen an area rug that looked tiny in comparison to the dining table and chairs? This is because the components were not scaled to each other or to the space as a whole. When you are decorating a small space like a studio or apartment, use pieces like an apartment size sofa accompanied by one or two small yet comfortable accent chairs. Make sure your furnishings highlight the qualities of your space instead of pointing out the negatives.

I personally love the coziness and intimacy that comes from a small space. If designed properly, a small space can be very functional and stylish. Don't get discouraged about the lack of square footage but instead make the most of what you have. 

If you are frustrated and overwhelmed by your space and need assistance picking the right scale furnishings start with my Furniture Layout service. It will make shopping for furniture so much easier. Don't forget to leave your comments below. 

Here's to Stunning Small Spaces!

 

Adding STYLE & FUNCTION to Your Space

adding style and function

Imagine walking through your front door and feeling like you just stepped into a resort or a hotel suite. That feeling of entering a space that fulfills your needs and allows you to recharge: A space that allows you to be YOU. 

I used warm neutral tones and added geometric accents to this welcoming foyer.

I used warm neutral tones and added geometric accents to this welcoming foyer.

"The wall colors transition smoothly as you go from one room to the next."

As you close the front door you pass the foyer then make your way to your living room when you notice that there are coordinated accessories, stunning artwork hung at eye level, and perfectly sized area rugs placed in the living room to create the most intimate, cozy sitting area. The furnishings are strategically placed to your liking and compliment the integrity of the room. The wall colors transition smoothly as you go from one room to the next.

This formal living room i designed turned into a stylish yet functional lounge sitting area enjoyed by the entire family.

This formal living room i designed turned into a stylish yet functional lounge sitting area enjoyed by the entire family.

As you enter your dining area you remember you have company coming shortly for dinner. You rush into the kitchen to get started on your menu. You layout your ingredients on your countertop which blends beautifully with your tile backsplash (that your designer specifically selected for you). The layout of your kitchen allows you to work efficiently and you waste no time preparing a lovely meal. You grab a clear vase and put some fresh flowers to make a simple yet organic centerpiece.

Ingredients on your kitchen counter.

Ingredients on your kitchen counter.

"Your home should reflect your personality. It should be a place where your guests leave knowing more about you than when they entered."

As you freshen up and wait for your guests to arrive you quickly take a minute and feel grateful and blessed to be HOME! There's no other place like home because there is no other YOU. Your home should reflect your personality. It should be a place where your guests leave knowing more about you than when they entered.

empty-room-is-a-story

Are you ready to have your home tell YOUR story? Join me May 7th at my Design Workshop  to find out your decor style, learn how to create an effective layout, and arrange accessories that will wow guests. Hurry, space is limited! Click Here to register and enter our Design Dilemma Contest!

Hope to see you in Havertown May 7th!

 

P.S. Do you lean more towards STYLE, FUNCTION or both? Share in the comments below or email me at sabine@georgettemarise.com and let me know! I would love to hear from you.