Small space living is a relatively new phenomena in Australia, with most of us growing up in the suburbs (think: big front and back yards). But as more people opt for smaller, inner city living, its refreshing to see a big newspaper like The Age put out an article dealing with compact spaces. For simple, solid advice particularly useful to those just starting out in their small space, check out the main points below.
[ Image: Tony and Hilary's 3 in 1 Studio]
Small Space Basics from The Age
Melbourne
Less is more.
- Only have furniture that is necessary. In the lounge, go for one comfortable sofa and one special chair.
- In place of a coffee table, try side tables that double as guest seating.
- Choose a sofa with legs over one that touches the floor, this way you see more of the floor.
Bookcases, storage units and open shelving: think vertically.
- Opt for tall and skinny or floor to ceiling . “If you can see the floor, the area will appear larger.”
- If you can, build it in. Use dead space under windows to install bookshelves, drawers or cupboards.
Use mirrors.
- They create the illusion of extra space and add drama.
Walls
- All white, all right: myth. All white walls can be dull. Use colour to create atmosphere. Pale blues and greens create airiness with more interest.
Lighting
- “Warm table lamps and reading lights over chairs and sofas invite you to sit and cocoon yourself.”
- Use space saving options like sconces in place of bedside lighting to free up table space.
- Large lampshades are fine, see Make One Piece Oversized , just choose one with a small base.
Final points
- Be vigilant in managing your clutter.
- Streamline personal ornaments, photos etc. into a single large collection on a side table or credenza rather than spreading them across multiple surfaces.
- Transform backs of doors and inside wardrobe doors into storage hot spots using hooks and slim line shelves.
Read the full article here.
What would you add to the basics of small space living?
Comments (6)
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I love the wire rack and table...Anyone know where I can find something like this in NYC area? It would be perfect for my kitchen!
view sluna's profile
ikea used to sell a wire rack system like that called omar..
target has them as well though neither is professional grade.
view Enamorada's profile
sluna: such kitchen items can be found at any commercial/restaurant kitchen supply store. These places are generally open to the public and worth a look for great bargains on heavy duty kitchen utensils and utilitarian furniture.
As for small spaces. Properly scaled furniture is a must and less is always more. Walk in a room and take out one piece of furniture and at least five chotkes, it is amazing how such a small act can really open up and refresh a small space.
view austinjohn's profile
These are all fantastic ideas, but i still stand by all white walls.
can't go wrong with them, just feels clean.
HTTP://WWW.DUSKIN-NY.BLOGSPOT.COM
view DUSKIN's profile
sluna: Container Store sells InterMetro Shelving. It’s not cheap but it saved my life. Course mine could be considered a bit of a collection. I started buying in collage and added on as I moved around.
They're like really heavy metal Lego’s: you can make a desk, T.V. Stand bookshelf. I currently have a 9 X 6 office with workspace, computer space, mini bookshelf and filling. Handy!
As for the cost, you might want to take austinjohn advice and look at the Kitchen supply stores first. You may get a better deal if you only need one.
view sea9262's profile
to think vertically I would add
OR think horizontally.... you will widen the space... open back chairs... and benches and stools (for table and occasional seating... chaise longue instead of sofa.... the eye will travel freely, you will feel less crowded.... group pictures on one wall tightly... leave other walls bare (or almost)
view Philip_Littell's profile