apartment therapy changing the world, one room at a time

It's clear that the aim of the book is not to reinvent the design wheel; however, Williams and Gold present age-old design wisdom in such a clear and attractive manner, using such current — yet classic— images, that I found myself picturing a little cartoon light bulb flashing on over my head with nearly every page-turn.

Although the book is fairly concise, it offers a wonderful range of design solutions for each room in the house: entry, bedroom, dining room, living room, etc., as well as a very helpful list of room "essentials"— the basic building blocks of furniture that help to establish any room regardless of personal style. As I put together my own smallish living room with entertaining season in mind, I found Gold and Williams' "small spaces essentials" especially helpful. All are pieces that serve a variety of functions while taking up relatively little space.:

The Dining/End Table:

I wouldn't have thought of a side table as anything except, well, a side table— a place to set a drink or a book, but in small spaces an ample round one can also be employed as a cozy cafe style table for a couple or small group. This is the Chandler Table from Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams.

The Daybed:

Perfect in place of a love seat, the low profile daybed is ideal for napping, overnight guests, and extra seating without taking up too much visual space. This is Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams' Clifton Lounge.

The Storage Ottoman:
Coffee table, extra seating, storage for extra and off-season throws, last minute clutter receptacle before guests arrive, as well as the perfect hide-n-go seek spot (kidding, kidding), the storage ottoman may be the most under-rated multitask-er in a small living room. This one is their Col. Benchlee.

The Nesting Tables:

I like the sculptural look of them stacked, but I also love the need to eliminate multiple side tables when your living room isn't filled with cocktailers. As the book mentions, they couple also work as a coffee table when seperated and lined up in front of a sofa. This sleek set is called the Wright Nesting Table.

The Upholstered Side Chair:

Perfect for the dinner table and a fairly comfortable extra seat in the living room, the upholstered side chair also makes a wonderful desk chair and bedside chair. This is Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams' Sylvia Side Chair.

The Sleeper Sofa:

Sleeper sofas get a bad rap for being uncomfortable, but they can turn a tiny living room into a tiny guest room in seconds flat. We've heard great things about their Gabriel sleeper for everyday and sleep comfort.

While we are particularly drawn to small space solutions, the book is brimming with lists and ideas for virtually any space, all with an emphasis on quality, flexibility, and, of course, comfort.

To order a copy, click here.

(Images: Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams)