Making The Most Of Your Space

Acceptance, balance, reflection and love. No, I am not talking about the keys to a happy life (although these to hold true to that as well), but how you can make the most out of your space and how to use size, style and decor to your advantage. More and more of us are downsizing to smaller homes or choosing condo living over owning a house, and then there are those of us who are renting apartments or smaller homes until that dream place comes along. Whatever the situation may be, these tips will not only help you make the most out of your space, but also make it a more enjoyable and welcoming place to live. 

1. Acceptance

 

First and foremost we must accept our space. It is easy to look on Pinterest, scroll through our daily blog feed, flip through the magazines and see these homes which physically can not be replicated in our current spaces We have to be realistic with our wants and needs. For example, we see a beautiful California King four poster bed with all the trimmings but we only live in a 500sq ft apartment, Its just not happening is it? Instead look for inspiration from similar style spaces and homes. The sooner you accept your space that you have and start taking steps to make the most of it the faster you will appreciate your home for what it is. 

2. Flow

Arrange your furniture in such a way that there is flow to your space. Make sure you can easily travel from one room to the next in a easy and free motion. Don't put pieces in your home which don't fit, over cramming will only lead to a unusable and over crowded space.

3. Balance

Use a constant variety of different textures and materials; mix your woods and metallics, use pops of color and a variety of textures. Connect each room by repeating these patterns through out the entire space. This will help the space flow together, as if they are extensions of each other rather than several small, disjointed areas. 

4. Let Go 

Hoarding. Need I say more. Go through all your stuff: your closet, books, pantry, kitchen supplies, everything! Anything your haven't used in 6-12 months donate. You don't need it, but that doesn't mean to say someone else won't appreciate it. Getting rid of unwanted things not only clears your space but also your mind. 

5. Leave Your Comfort Zone

 

I have mentioned this before, that one of this biggest design mistakes we see is people playing it too safe. Just because you are in a small place doesn't mean you have to stick to white walls, neutral curtains, beige rugs and cream pillows (not to over exaggerate). Add pops of colors to your walls, find bold patterns to use as your window dressings or bed linens, paint a few pieces of furniture in unexpected colors. All of these little things are your stamp, they are your expression. Don't be afraid. 

6. Filling the Void

When living in a small space we really have to make the most of every little inch we have available. Think, under the bed, on top of the cupboards, empty walls. Anywhere and everywhere must be used to its best advantage for not only function but decor and style as well. 

7. See the Light

Natural Light. I can't say it enough. Don't block it with heavy curtains and blinds instead choose sheer fabrics to get the most light possible from your windows. Light opens spaces and fills with positive and warm energy. 

8. Reflection

 

Again with the natural light, placing mirrors to reflect light and brighten up a space will also make a room appear larger. 

9. Mindplay

There are special tricks with decorating which can play with the mind and make a space look larger than it actually is. For example, hanging curtains from the top the ceiling as appose to from the top of the window. Using a larger area rug instead of a small floating rug. Replace lots of small furniture with a few larger statement pieces can actually make the room appear bigger (just not too many). Oversized mirrors, paintings and art of the walls also have the safe effect. 

10. Love

And finally the most important tip is to style and decorate your space with love and care and make it a home that you feel comfortable in and enjoy. 

Hope you all enjoyed! 

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