Pressed for Space but not for Style: 10 Decorating Hacks for Small Spaces

Condo living is nothing if not convenient, but the small quarters can often present a design and décor challenge. Luckily, as more urban dwellers bring condo- and small space-living into the mainstream, there is an abundance of decorating tips and tricks to help you make the most of even the smallest spaces. While you may be pressed for space, you ought not be pressed for style and functionality. 

Below you'll find 10 decorating and design hacks to keep in mind when furnishing or updating your small space.

Mirror, Mirror

The benefits of strategically using mirrors in any space cannot be overstated. This hardworking décor magician tricks the eye into thinking the room goes on forever by adding the illusion of space and depth. This can be especially useful when using mirrors in your entryway, hallways and on opposite walls within your living room. You can easily inject your personal style by choosing the frame and size of the mirror, opting for a gallery-style wall of smaller sized mirrors and other prints, and tastefully arranging other accent pieces around your mirrors for added style. 

Go Light & Bright

Opt for light, bright and breezy colours and tones throughout your space. This can be applied to paint if you're considering painting (or re-painting) your walls, ceiling or any other part of your home. It can also be applied to large pieces of furniture. A sofa, dining table, closet or any other substantial pieces fare well in pale, neutral tones. This will help your space feel less cramped, and the lighter tones can be easily offset with darker accent pieces, such as: pillows, cushions, area rugs, blankets and photo or mirror frames.

Declutter Once Per Week

While this may initially seem like overkill, you'd be surprised how much stuff can accumulate over the course of a week. This is especially noticeable within a small space, as there are fewer places for the clutter to hide. Make an effort to thoroughly declutter once per week to tidy your space. You can even incentivize the (otherwise boring) task to make it seem less like a chore, and remember, a clean space often equates to a clear mind. While decluttering may not be the highlight of the week, you'll likely feel refreshed once finished.

Let There Be Light

Taking advantage of natural light is an instant fix that brightens and opens up your small space. Opt to go sans window treatments if you feel comfortable and if privacy allows. Otherwise, choose sheer, light-coloured curtains or blinds to allow in as much natural light as possible. Strategically place floor or table lamps and other light sources throughout the darker corners of your space, and opt for lightbulbs that emit a natural-coloured light. Lamps are a great way to inject personality and style: fairy lights wound around furniture or shelves add a cozy element; a floor lamp with clean, metal lines adds a chic flair to your living room; and hanging lanterns in your kitchen create a rustic ambience. 

Sleek & Stylish
While chunky, ornate furniture has its appeal, it has no place within a small space. As an alternative, opt for furniture with sleek, straight and smooth lines. Unleash your inner Scandi style by choosing sofas, sectional sofas, tables and chairs with a modern and compact aesthetic. Multi-functional furniture is especially desirable within a small space, but more on this later. 

Go With The Flow

If you can't make it from your front door to the back of your home without tripping over something or having to perform complex acrobatic maneuvers, you likely have to rethink your layout. To keep your space open and ensure there's a clear path to access all major points of your space. Arrange your furniture into zones that complete and don't compete with one another. 

Use Glass En Masse

Much like the use of mirrors, glass can also help to give the illusion of a larger, brighter space. Rather than choosing dark wood, metal or composite for your furniture, opt for glass instead. Glass can be used as a dining table top, coffee table, shelves and even kitchen and glassware. Using glass as part of your décor will still allow you to section off your home without blocking any space.

Where Function Meets Form

Perhaps the most worthwhile furniture investment you can make for your small space is multi-functional furniture. This is especially key when pieces double as storage devices: choose a coffee table or bed frame that allows for storage underneath. In your living room, ottomans can be used to store extra cushions and blankets. Opt for a sofa that doubles as a pull-out bed for guests, unexpected or otherwise. Choose a room divider with removable shelves; a fold-out, multipurpose desk for your home office; and a drop leaf or butterfly table for your dining area. The options are quite literally endless.

Saviour Shelves

Maximize your storage and add a splash of style by installing floating shelves. These can easily be installed throughout your home in your bathroom, living room, office and kitchen to house storage boxes, or decorated with heirlooms, photos, art and other baubles. Ensure to use corner shelves to avoid losing out on space and get creative with your shelves in both their placement and form. Arrange a collection of shelves as part of a gallery wall, or around the perimeter of your room; or opt for interesting shaped shelves. 

Toss Non Essentials

In addition to frequent decluttering, make a conscious effort to consider your lifestyle and have your space reflect this. For example, if your primarily use your laptop to watch TV and other forms of entertainment, you can probably get away with donating your television set. Similarly, if you find yourself with a closet full of nothing to wear, it may be time to donate some of your neglected items. There are likely many items that you can easily get rid of, so, channel your inner Marie Kondo and donate and re-home items you no longer need or use to significantly declutter your space.

Making mindful investments into your small space will pay comfort and functional dividends for as long as you call your space your home. Try either all or a combination of the tips above to instantly see a transformation in your home. Be sure to also check out Furniture.ca for clever, stylish and functional home furniture and décor pieces for your small space.