There is no denying it: Stylish, thoughtful and expressive interior décor brings comfort and personality to any space. However, when you are working with a smaller space – such as an apartment or a shared office – it can often feel very difficult and limiting
when considering your décor options.
If you are feeling intimidated or even hopeless about attempting to stylize your smaller space, fear no more! You do not have to be intimidated by these situations when you are armed with the right tools to get the job done. Smaller spaces can look just as stylish, original, and well designed as larger spaces; however, you must work with the space and not against it.
Step 1: Take Appraisal:
The first step in starting your design journey is to take appraisal of your space. Take a look at the space with fresh eyes and take a few photos for reference. Write down descriptions of what you see. As you are looking, try to think less of what the space lacks, and more of the space’s assets or unique attributes. Is it full of windows that allow lots or natural light? Is it uniquely shaped? Are the unique character features such as a built-in book case or cubby holes? Whatever it is that makes your special, now it the time to consider it. Even if you may think of a certain attribute as negative, write it down anyway and take a photo. You may be surprised at how that wood-paneled pony wall can grow on you with the right design!
Step 2: Decide on Your Goals:
PRIMARY USE
Next, you should decide on what you want to accomplish with the space. In order to do this, you must first decide on what the room will primarily be used for. Is this a bedroom? An entryway? A sitting area? A corridor or pass-through space? A nook area that could benefit from styling?
One you determine the space’s primary use, you must next consider who will primarily use it. Is it for children or adults? Anyone? Decide who will likely use the room the most and go with it!
ATMOSPHERE
One of the most important things to consider when designing any space – and even more so when designing a smaller space – is the atmosphere you wish to achieve in the space. This is the total look and feeling that you would wish the finished space to convey. To decide, start with how you would like to feel when you enter the space. Do you want to feel calm or energized? Closed in or light and airy? A good starting point for determining this is to consider the primary use of the space. For instance, if you are designing a bedroom, how would you like to feel when you are in the bedroom (or, your guests if it is a guest room). Also, consider the look you are going for: Dramatic? Reserved? Shabby Chic? Consider the sensations and emotions that you would like to feel when you are in the space and write them down.
Step 3: Work out Your Spatial Arrangement
Now that you have decided on the use and feel of the space, you should look at the area and determine what kind of furnishings you might require to accomplish your goals. Also, consider where each furnishing might be placed to achieve the desired results. Think of sofas, beds, table, chairs, bookcases – any larger furnishing that will take up significant space. Consider how they should be arranged within you space to maximize the feel and flow through and minimize crowding. Consider the swing of any doors and windows during this step, as well as any cabinetry that is already in the room. You wouldn’t want to place a lovely novelty table in the path of your door’s back-swing. Sketch out a few different ideas. Don’t worry if drawing is not your forte – just draw a simple diagram in a manner that is understandable to you. Is doesn’t need to look like a professional artist’s rendering. Also, if there is already furniture in the room, don’t be opposed to considering how any of the existing furniture might be able to be re-purposed to create your new vision. Can you use your existing sofa with new tables and chairs? Can you refinish that old bookcase in the corner to create a fresh, new look? Don’t be closed off to the possibilities.
Step 4: Choose a Color Palette
Now that you have decided on your design goals, you have graduated to the selection phase! (Congratulations!) But – before you start picking out vases and curtains, you have to decide on your color scheme. Taking into account your earlier appraisal of the space and your goals for the space, choose a color palette that helps you to accomplish your goals and speaks to you inner artist. Try not to choose colors at random, but instead, try to choose colors that invoke the emotions and feelings you have sought to capture. For example, if you are creating a serene space, consider neutrals, pastels, and cool earth tones. If you are wanting to give the space a larger or more open appearance, consider lighter tints of colors as apposed to darker hues.
Step 5: Go Shopping!
Now that you’ve got a plan, you are ready to get to work. First, review and solidify your color palette. It is best to take a look at the colors you like in person at your local hardware and paint store before making a final decision. There are usually swatches available so that you can see how the colors look in real life. It may be very different from what you see on your computer screen! It is also wise to look at swatches of all of the colors/patterns you are considering for the space (including wall color, furniture color, and drapery/window treatments) to ensure that you love the final scheme. Colors are tricky; while they of course do not actually change, they can visually appear very different when placed next to other colors. That lovely, bright salmon pink you love may look dull and orange next to certain brown hues.
Choose your furnishings and accessories in styles and hues that compliment your color palette and one another, and that fit your use and atmospheric goals. When choosing accessories, remember that the purpose is to bring style and personality, and to tie all of the elements of the space together.
Step 6: Install
One you have made your selections and purchased your furnishings and décor, it is time to bring your vision to life. Remember start with the wall color or covering, arrange larger furnishings, and end with accessories and décor.
By following these basic steps, you should be off to a good start for tackling any design interior design job. There is no need to be fearful of approaching the design of your smaller space; just remember to work with the space and incorporate your own unique style and goals. You’ll be sure to create a welcoming space that will make you proud to say it’s your own!
Peace & Love,
