Great Solutions for Small Spaces

A small living space doesn’t mean that you have to compromise on style. Many people become frustrated because they are overwhelmed by clutter and not enough functionality with their furniture. No matter the size, there are several options that allow you to create an inviting area.

Keep these tips in mind when decorating the space.

·     The best way to maximize the space is to choose pieces that are multi-functional. Try to utilize every square inch in your space and find pieces that serve more than one purpose. 

·     Use the space above or closest to the ceiling, which can be turned into storage spaces that are aesthetically pleasing and functional.

·      Placing furniture that is transparent in the room makes it appear larger and is not visually cluttering.

·     Lighting affects the visual appearance. Use all forms of lighting- think ambient,   task and functional.

·        Mirrors reflect light and make spaces appear larger.

·      Use the space underneath a bed for hidden storage. Clear bins and wooden shelves are easily found at stores like IKEA and even Target.

·     An untidy room will make a smaller space even more unattractive! Keep it free of clutter!

Draw from the following examples for inspiration.

                                                           “Floating” desk on wall

Courtesy of retailtherapy.com

                                                                          Sleeper Sofa

Courtesy of Sofabed.com



 

                                                              Ottoman/Dining space

Courtesy of amazon.com

                                                      High positioned shelves

Courtesy of treehugger.com

 

                                                Multi-functional table-storage

Courtesy.furniture.about.com

Don’t allow "size" to prevent you from designing a fabulous space!

Remember, “Design the life you love!”

Summer Style: How to Transform the Outdoor Space with Great Furniture

Summer is right around the corner! That means barbeques and lots of outdoor entertaining. A great outdoor space is another way to showcase your style and create a seamless living space to your home. Whether you desire an extravagant outdoor retreat or a budget-friendly update, we’ll show you how you can easily transform it from drab to fab. We offer great tips that complement any style.

 

Traditional

If you’re drawn to more of a classic and conservative look, the traditional 5-piece set made of aluminum is a great idea. The set is low maintenance and rust, weather and UV resistant. You can add a flower arrangement or other center piece when entertaining. The finish allows you to easily change the seat cushions when you want a new look.



Courtesy of castaluminumpatiofurniture.org

   

   

   

Urban dweller? Add an array of plants and branches to create your own serene getaway as shown in the picture below.

Courtesy of Lonny Magazine.com

    

  

Modern

Contemporary or modern outdoor furniture is very chic. You can use several accent pieces to transform your space into an oasis.  Lots of plants, bold, bright pillows and designer rugs are great ways to add a touch of elegance.  For shade, place a canopy over the furniture. They come in a variety of styles and price ranges.



Courtesy of purecontemporary.blogs.com

       

       

Small Spaces

If space is limited, there are several simple ways to create an appealing look. Maximize every inch for seating. By minimizing the amount of pieces, this creates the illusion of a larger area. A small table with three to four chairs or simple benches in any finish is a great way to dress up the space.  Decorating with plants, lanterns and rugs will add a chic look to the area.

http://sugarpluminvitations.blogspot.com/2008/03/outdoor-spaces.html

   



Courtesy of chairs and furniture.com

   

Courtesy of interiorfamilydecorating.com

    

 The ideas are endless.  Creating an inviting outdoor space is just another way to showcase your signature style.

Design the life you love! ™

Color Blocking: Spring and Summer Trends

We’ve seen it on the runaways, clothing racks and make-up counters. “Color blocking.”  It’s the hottest trend of the year that involves the mix of solid colors in daring ways. Similar to mixing prints, the method combines two or more colors that include bright, complimentary and contrasting shades.  Orange, green, yellow, and blue are some of the most popular combinations.  If you’re daring enough to wear the combos, then you may find that the same mix will provide an artistic twist in your home as well.

Before you get started, keep these tips in mind.

·         Remember the rules of color. The color wheel is a perfect guide if you’re confused on what works. The rules are: colors directly next to each other (i.e. yellow-green); those that create a ninety- degree angle (i.e. green and orange); colors that form a “T” (think blue, orange and violet-red) and so on.

·         Try to stick to a maximum of four colors. The idea is to add bold touches, but you don’t want it to come across as being too wild and psychedelic.

·         Minimize the number of pieces in each room that display the method. Keep it simple.

Here are a few examples that you can use as inspiration.

KITCHEN

    Courtesy of Designernotes.modwalls.com

The kitchen is a great place to spice it up if you desire a modern look. The combination of yellow and orange on the walls complement the dark finish of the cabinets. If you have lighter color finishes, you can use more cool tone pallets such as mint green and light blue.

LIVING ROOM

      Courtesy of cococozy.com                   

Simple splashes of color on the walls can be a great complement to accent pillows on the sofa and other décor such as chairs and tables. Try to keep the color choices to a minimum of two on the actual walls, and mix and match throughout the room with simple touches as displayed in the picture above.

WINDOW TREATMENTS

      Courtesy of cocoonhome.com

Bright window treatments are a great way to temporarily add the trend in a room if you don’t want to go bold and paint the walls. You can mix up to three to four colors, but ensure that the colors complement the main pieces in the room such as the sofa and chairs.

You can also try the trend by adding color to a small section of the wall as a backdrop to a picture frame and painting dining room chairs using two different colors.

Color blocking is a fabulous way to add a modern twist when the trend is kept simple and chic. Remember to have fun and don’t be afraid!

Design the life you love. ™