Janette Ewen

Its no secret, I live in (what’s considered) a small space. But at 475 square feet, my condo (in a converted chocolate factory), is one of the largest spaces I’ve had since moving to Toronto. I don’t see small spaces as a challenge. I see them as an opportunity.

So many people assume that minimal décor and minimal furniture will make a small space feel larger. This isn’t true! Think of all the gorgeous tiny apartments in Paris, would these spaces ever be anything but ornately decorated? Wallpaper, textiles, rugs and tons of accessories will complete a small space and fill it with life and character. Something many large spaces can never achieve. 

In a small space you can buy the best of everything because you don’t need tons of furnishings. When buying for a small space, you can always shop for quality (since quantity is not an option). I love all of my furniture. I have an armless sofa from Style Garage that is neat and tailored. Tailored, simple furniture doesn’t require a lot of visual space and always looks tidy. I also have lots of Lucite furniture (from Kartell) and mirrored furniture. Both of these finishes look weightless in a room as they either visually disappear or reflect. 

Another one of my favourite space-saving (but really stylish) additions is my Sapien Bookshelf from Design Within Reach. I have the tall, white version stacked with design and fashion books. It’s tucked in an otherwise useless nook and perfectly hides my electrical panel. 

Here are five more small space decorating tips: 

Let There Be Light
You can get more natural light by removing overdone drapes (which can look, well overdone). Instead keep window coverings chic and simple or if you want something grander, consider a single swag drape that is ornamental (but stylish) and still lets plenty of natural light in (this is what I have in my loft). This look also makes rooms and windows look bigger because it’s quite dramatic and draws the eye out and up. 

Don’t Be Afraid of Wallpaper
Wallpaper can make a room look more complete – bare walls close a room in. Wallpaper is great especially when it comes to a small space bathroom. Give your powder room punch by wallpapering the space in a bold print. Wallpaper all the walls and ceiling to achieve the look of a jewelry box interior.

Black is Black
Black walls or a ceiling can create visual space in a room. By painting walls or a ceiling with black matte paint you can create drama and make the walls seem to disappear.  

Go Glossy
Glossy kitchen cabinets reflect light and make a small space kitchen look modern, stylish and roomy. Keep all kitchen cabinets simple (no detailing), it will allow the cabinets to blend into the wall.

Decorate Every Space
In a small space your work, play and eating spaces are all exposed, so be sure to maximize your décor in these spaces. This includes arranging shelves in a stylish fashion, tucking loose papers and items into attractive storage boxes, buying pretty package items for your kitchen (as they’ll be left out on a counter) and using unconventional spaces for display (for example, try some over-sized vases or artwork on the top of kitchen cabinets).