subject: Less Is More: Decorating A Small Condo [print this page] A growing trend among young people these days is living in studio units or small condos, especially if they are just start out. Space can be a big constraint to your living space, however, with the right furniture, homewares and accessories can make your cosy condo appear more spacious.
Dividing Your Floor Space
If your condo has an open floor plan with the bedroom, dining and kitchen area all in one space, use area rugs to designate those spaces. If you can separate your sleep area from the living area, do so by placing a curtain instead of a room divider. Fashion your curtain divider with both sheer panels and a heavier fabric so you control the degree of privacy.
If you want something a little sturdier, choose bookshelves to create faux walls that double as storage. Limit decorative items or plants. Display the few you choose off of the floor for a more spacious look.
Walls
Take advantage of wall space and store up. Storing items on floor-to-ceiling shelves saves floor space. Choose wall colours in light tones. If you prefer dark colours, use them as accent colours for your baseboards and accessories. Place curtain rods at the top of the wall and across your windows to give the illusion of floor-to-ceiling windows.
Too many items hung on a wall will make a room seem smaller. However, mirrors are an excellent way to open up a room. They reflect light and add the illusion of depth to small spaces. If you choose to hang pictures or a wall accent, avoid a cluster of small items and choose one large focal piece.
Furniture
Pieces that can multi-task are your best bet when furnishing a small condo. For example, dining furniture that can double as workspace or an ottoman utilized for storage and as a coffee table is an excellent way to fill your condo with what you need for everyday living without overwhelming the space with too many furnishings.
If you plan to host overnight guests or if your living room is your bedroom, a sofa that converts to a bed or a Murphy bed that pulls out of a wall unit will provide space-saving double duty. If you have a bed, purchase oversize pillows and bolsters to re-purpose it as a sofa during the day.
Look for homewares with simple, clean lines in light or neutral colours. Avoid overstuffed armrests and bulky cushions. If you have a bulky, oversized sofa, then minimize the furniture and accessories around it. This balances out the room and keeps the space from feeling too crowded.
Tidy and Organized
Keep items off counters, tables and out of sight. If you have open bookshelves, store items in semi-translucent magazine holders, file boxes or wicker baskets. Clutter makes a tiny space seem even tinier.
Furnishing a small living space such as a condominium involves a little planning, a little creativity and a little flair. Just remember: Less is more.
