Since the late 1950s, Vitra has been manufacturing furniture for small spaces by top-tier designers from Charles and Ray Eames to Frank Gehry. Looking through their catalog, there's a lot to be learned about small-space decorating. And, unlike many other modern furniture manufacturers, they show realistic settings with stacks of books and cluttered desks...

Top: Modular systems (like the Self Shelves) allow for flexible arrangements that can be reconfigured when needed. In this photo, the translucent shelving system is also used as a space divider.

Multi-purpose furniture is important in a small space. The classic Panton Chair (shown at the table) is stackable, can be used indoors or outside, and works as a dining chair or an occasional chair.

Furniture that you can see through makes a room look lighter. The Standard Chair by Jean Prouvé has an open back with slender front legs.

Simple shapes and materials won't overwhelm a small space. This is the Jasper Morrison Cork Family of stools and side tables.

Stackable stools (like the Elephant Stool) have a low profile, but they can provide extra seating or side tables when needed. These also work indoors or outside.

The horizontal lines of the Polder Sofa XS (scaled for a small space) contrasts nicely with the walls of shelves.

One or two large-scale pieces can sometimes have a positive impact in a small space. For instance, these large black-and-white photographs are a nice compliment to the small-scale Organic Chair.

To find a Vitra furniture dealer, click here.