Interview: Tips on How to Love Your Small Space

Guest Blog Entry #22, Entry #271, September 10, 2010

I find that the largest most posh spaces always get the headliners and the front pages of the decor magazines, but what about small spaces? Every now and then you will see one grace the decor pages because of their trendy color palette, but rarely do you see sites dedicated to small spaces.

Your small space can be perfect!

I had the pleasure of meeting Typhanie Peterson through #Interior Design Chat on Twitter a few weeks ago and was fascinated by the name of her website: Shoebox Décor. I had the pleasure of interviewing Typhanie about small spaces and how to overcome challenges of space.

STAGETECTURE:

What does Shoebox Décor specialize in, and what need did you find to start it?

SHOEBOX DECOR:

Shoebox Décor specializes in decorating small spaces on a shoestring budget. When my Husband and I got our first apartment it was only 400sqft and I remembered how hard it was to decorate it. Not only was it hard to find storage but it was also a challenge to get everything we wanted on a small budget.  A couple of years ago I fell in love with the design blogging world. I read blog after blog but I couldn’t find one whose main focus was small spaces. I started Shoebox Décor wanting to share everything a learned about decorating my small home.

STAGETECTURE:

What are your suggestions for Stagetecture reader’s on how to maximize a small place?

SHOEBOX DECOR:

Make use of your wall space. You can use floor to ceiling curtains to add height and drama or add built in book shelves to create more storage. On the other end of the spectrum if you don’t want to spend a lot of money, paint is one of the fastest and most affordable ways to enhance your space. The right paint color can bring light into your home and make it feel 10 times bigger.  It’s also important to get the scale of your furniture and accessories correct. You don’t want your furniture to be too big or too small, the right scale will make your rooms flow better and look more spacious. With that in mind people tend to under decorate a small area. You can have most of the things you love in your space with the proper planning.

Wall space is crucial in small spaces

STAGETECTURE:

What common decor, and storage mistakes do people make in decorating their small spaces?

SHOEBOX DECOR:

Most people think storage has to be ugly. When you say storage they think of those bulky clear containers that they have to hide under the bed or in the back of the closet. Also when you need something out of those containers it ends up becoming a bigger mess, since what you are looking for is always at the bottom. I usually suggest purchasing storage that is easy to access and can be part of your décor. Decorative storage boxes come in an array of shapes and designs that can be easily worked into your design scheme. Just remember the Shoebox Décor motto “A place for everything so everything can return to its place”. Also it pays to remember that storage is not one size fits all. Make sure to buy the right kind of storage depending on what you are trying to store. It is all about maximizing space while providing easy access to the things that you use most.

Maximize your organization areas

STAGETECTURE:

Where should reader’s put the majority of their money in planning out their small homes?

SHOEBOX DECOR:

Functional furniture is key for small space living. I’m a firm believer that in a small space your furniture has to do double duty.  Whether it’s a couch that turns into a bed, or a desk that can be used as a side table, multi use furniture will save you space and money. I would suggest using a majority of your budget on pieces that will give you the most bang for your buck. Ottomans with hidden storage is always a good idea. Not only do you add extra storage and seating, you can easily move them out of the way when they’re not in use.

Use multifunction furniture pieces…

STAGETECTURE:

Where are good hidden storage ideas in a small place?

SHOEBOX DECOR:

Under the bed is an oldie but goodie hiding place. You can store seasonal clothing, linens, even shoes for us high heel lovers. You just can’t go wrong with this old adage but it has to be done right. Look for the right storage container for your items. For instance, If you’re storing shoes, sliding shoe trays are a must have. Another great hiding place is the back of your closet door. This is a great place to hang bags, scarves and ties. Using the door will free up more space in your closet (for shoes).

STAGETECTURE:

What is your advice for reader’s that are frustrated with their small space?

Make your small space what you want…

SHOEBOX DECOR:

Keep it simple and do what you love. There are a million and one “rules” for a small space but the most important one is living with things you love. Find a piece that you can’t live without and design around it. If your favorite color is purple, then throw that “No dark colors in a small space” rule out the window and do it. In the end just keep your design simple and balanced, and make sure you have storage, storage, and more storage.

Shoebox Décor was founded in 2007 by Typhanie Peterson. She launched the site with the idea of sharing all the things she loved about small spaces with the world. Shoebox Décor is built around the idea that you can have great design and entertain even in a small space and all on a budget that won’t break the bank. The site includes many DIY projects as well as other great ideas about small space living from around the design world.

For more space saving ideas on Stagetecture, click here.