Optimizing Small Spaces
The best way to make the most of a small room is to find creative ways to utilize every inch of space. Begin by removing absolutely everything you do not need and finding another place to store those items. Creating a more streamlined space will instantly make it look larger.
Next, it is a good idea to choose one function for a small space and limit the use of that room to that particular function. If it's an office, use it only as an office instead of also using it as a storage area.
Paint the room a bright color, preferably using semi gloss or even high gloss paint to reflect light and give it a bright, airy feel. Paint the ceiling the same color or an even lighter color to draw the eye upward. Make sure the space has plenty of light sources, since light opens up any room. Open those shades or curtains and let the natural light in.
Adding a large decorative mirror will also reflect light, and it does double duty as an art piece. Multifunctional pieces are the best choices for small areas, since they allow you to avoid adding extra pieces that will take up valuable floor and wall space.
For example, a covered ottoman or cube that opens is perfect for use as a table or a place to rest your feet, but it will also work great for storing extra blankets, books, or magazines that you don't want scattered about. You can also utilize the space under large furniture pieces by filling shallow boxes (the ones canned goods come in are perfect) or purchasing shallow storage containers such as those designed for under the bed storage.
Built in floor to ceiling shelves are great in small spaces. Even if you aren't exactly handy, and can't build your own, you can line a wall with ready made bookshelves. They don't take up much floor space and they provide tons of vertical storage. To make them blend in with the wall and keep them from looking bulky, paint them the same color as the wall. Keep shelves tidy with decorative baskets or storage boxes, and always put least used items away on the highest shelves.
Using wall space instead of floor space will make the room feel larger and give it good flow. Hang sporting gear and other bulky items on the wall instead of piling them up on the floor. Don't forget to use corners either. Corner shelves are great areas for storage as well as display.
If you find that your space still looks cluttered, opt for more covered storage. You don't have to build doors for a shelving unit, you can simply cover the opening with fabric or a matchstick shade.
The key to optimizing a small space is making it appear large and open. A little imagination and energy will help you transform that cramped room into a cozy, inviting space.
-Sherry Holetzky
White Table with 2 Drawers
Sometimes the simple things are best, and this 2-drawer, single-shelf wooden table combines a sleek simplicity with versatile functionality.
Use it as a side table, a night stand; in the office, the kitchen—you name it, it works! May require additional freight charge. 15 3/4" x 11 3/4" x 27 1/4" high.
White Tv Stand Cabinet
A simple yet elegantly designed piece of furniture, this sturdy TV stand fits beautifully in almost any living room or study, while the shelf and cabinet area easily hold and hide every television accessory. Some assembly required. May require additional freight.
Carved Top Accent Table
An appealing table for any small space! Lovely carved details on top and sides; a center drawer keeps small items close at hand.
Distressed-finish painted white wood.
16" diameter x 19 1/4" high.
Intricately Carved-Top Table
A must-have for the romantic heart. Turned legs and an intricately carved top add rich visual appeal to this enchanting white wood table.
Assembly required. (Items on table for display purposes.)
35" x 14" x 29" high
Ivory Media Cabinet
This gracefully proportioned cream-colored cabinet makes elegant organization virtually effortless!
Scalloped front paneling and etched glass windows add a designer look to this perfectly practical piece; classic styling makes it an attractive addition to any room. Three interior shelves neatly hold CDs, DVDs, and VHS tapes; no more lost items and media clutter! MDF wood with glass. 9 7/8" x 7 1/2" x 32 1/4" high. May require additional freight charge
Graceful Antiqued Cabinet
Simple lines and a creamy hand-distressed finish give this wonderful wooden cabinet the heirloom look of cherished vintage furnishings!
Makes an elegant bedside nightstand; a handsome cabinet for any bath.. or use your imagination to add stylish storage most anywhere in your home! MDF wood. Some assemby required. May require additional freight charge. 18" x 12 1/2" x 29" high.
Parson's Storage Coffee Table
Creamy ivory adds a fresh, updated look to this classic square parson's-style cocktail table, allowing it to grace any room with understated elegance. A simple, squared shape blends harmoniously with other furnishings; graceful scalloped carving adds eye appeal to it's sides and legs. Two pullout storage drawers attractively organize remote controls and other small items. MDF wood. Some assembly required. May require additional freight charge. 27 1/2" square x 18 1/2" high.
Arched-Top Wall Mirror
Wood-framed vintage-look mirror adds French country flair to your “chateau”! Weathered white finish is a fabulous fit for any color scheme. 12 1/2" x 1/2" x 20"
Fleur-De-Lis Shelf Set
Wonderfully ornamented distressed white wood wall shelves feature a classic Fleur-de-lis motif. Items on shelves not included. Largest: 25" x 4 3/4" x 4" high.
Distress White Plant Stand
"Shabby elegance" plant stand. Wood. Assembly required. May require additional freight charge. 23 1/2" x 16" x 38" high.
Half-Moon Hall Table
This engaging half-moon table adds style and storage to any wall! Tapered legs and floral carvings lend rustic romance to this unique piece.
Wood with distressed white finish. Some assembly required.
24" x 14 1/4" x 27 1/2" high.
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SMALL FURNITURE
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This page was last updated on: August 28, 2010
