We were so inspired by how much style the Matlachs packed into their 722 square foot home that was featured in our newly released Spring issue of Prairie Hive mag! They took advantage of every nook and cranny to make their small space not only house all the necessities they need, but also be an amazing show piece.
With this in mind, we thought we would share a few quick tips on how to make a square-footage-challenged room feel generous and how to maximize an area that is limited in space.
First, consider using a light-colored paint (or better yet – crisp white – like the Matlachs did in the majority of their home). It creates the appearance of a larger expanse of wall, which makes the room appear larger. Try to avoid using dark, heavy colors in small areas as it will end up feeling smaller and cave-like. In the same way, steer clear of heavy-feeling furniture pieces, and stick with more delicate options.
image via Manhattan Mini-Storage
Don’t be afraid to use color, but use it sparingly and in big impact ways.
image via My Domicile Style
Even in a cozy space, using a few, big impact pieces is great! Avoid the mindset that you have to fill a small space with a bunch of small items. This makes a room very visually chaotic. Grouping similar items to make a collection can be a good alternative to strewing them out across your house. Or pick a few of your favorite tchotchkes, and weed out the unneeded ones. If at all possible, everything should have a dual purpose. Try to make it functional as well as stylish. If it doesn’t have a purpose, consider removing it. Keep it big and minimal!
image via Heckler Design
image via Shelterness
Go up! Use that vertical space! Every available corner is subject to use. Make good use of the dead space under the bed. Claim a closet for a bigger purpose.
image via Pinterest (source unknown)
image via Min Hembio
image via Pottery Barn Teen
Lots of light! Use windows, lamps, recessed can lights – whatever it takes! Even the use of mirrors can help bounce light around a room, making it appear larger. It also reflects space to trick your mind into thinking you are in a larger space than you actually are. Don’t let your room feel like a cave.
image via Apartment Therapy
Use space under the stairs… or IN the stairs like Matlachs’ very clever built-in storage!
image via Pinterest (source unknown)
image via Design*Sponge
image via Dwell
Of course, bunk beds, or loft beds, can often be a functional and creative use of space.
image via Petits petits tresors
image via Scandinavian Deko
DawnT
Dawn is a commercial interior designer who has worked on the East Coast before recently returning to her home state of Oklahoma. She is also growing as a photographer who loves to capture family moments, and is learning to sew and craft accoutrements to incorporate into photo shoots and celebrations for her friends. A volunteer for the youth at her church, an avid reader and Oreo dunker, Dawn believes a home should be artistic, personal and functional for the owners. She has recently purchased her first home and is looking forward to working on a Before and After process of her own!
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