Living Large in a Small Space

To add visual interest to a small space I emphasize my walls by creating diverse galleries and using different painting techniques. As for the furniture I create flow by using light hued fabrics for my large pieces such as my sofa and then add contrast with dark theme inspired accent pieces to keep the room grounded.

If you are using your sofa for a room divider it is very imperative that the fabric is light and airy, remember it is in the center of the space. A dark sofa would make the room feel cut off and dreary.

I added feminine flares to my space with a scroll pattern rug, embroidered feather down pillows, crystal accents (the lamp and pastry tier in the back corner) and a leopard accent chair. To entice my guests and make them feel more at home I like to have several arrangements (living or perceivably living things make a space feel less cold), candles for aroma, and a sign of dining (the sesame rolls plated in the serving basket). 

The large diagonal stripe draws your eyes upward making the room appear larger. Most people stray from using black in small spaces but if you add black as a focal point while keeping the other accents light and flowing it can do wonders for expanding your small space.

The Versatility of Stripes

Paint is the cheapest way to transform a space, at $30 a gallon its the go to facelift application for any space. As for techniques, stripes can transform a small room into a seemingly endless optical illusion. A great for any small space such as a loft or an apartment.

Credit: harlequin.uk.com; These narrow stripes allows for a variety of color, each shade chosen picks up from the vase of chic flowers spreading the presence of nature across the room. The touches of blue allow the mind to stay grounded amongst the subtle hues. 

The image above uses stripes as a bold yet soft statement within this design.  The timely backdrop allows the furniture to pop.

 To make your walls look elongated paint vertical stripes.  To give the appearance of length paint horizontal stripes. Bold stripes can add an art deco appeal such as those in the image pictured above. Subtle stripes that are painted in monochromatic hues can create a sultry touch of elegance.  Stripes can be wide, narrow, diagonal, done in stencil or even wall papered. You'll be amazed at how promising a small change such as painting a wall can make within your home.  

I love the metallic stripes against the French blue.

As pictured in Better Homes and Gardens: The stripes in this room add a fun flare of youth without making the space over baringly busy. The white furniture allows the walls to be the star in this bedroom creation.