Some specialty companies make furniture to fit smaller spaces, but there are also many popular retailers that offer smaller scaled items as well -- Pottery Barn, Wal-Mart, Target, and JC Penney to name just a few. Another option is to buy modular pieces, such as sectional sofas, modular office pieces, and items that fold or expand. Select chairs that can be pushed under the desk or table when not in use. When choosing furniture, make sure to also measure the depth of the pieces. Even a few inches can make a big difference.
Here a just a few examples. There are also retailers that sell furniture designed for small spaces.
This table can be pulled up to use as a desk for work, in place of a TV tray for eating, and even for storing remotes and other commonly used items that aren't attractive.
Copyright 2009 by Tom Lianza
This piece can be used as an entry table and then both sides can fold up when you need extra dining space.
Copyright 2005 by C. Jill Reed
These are great even if you don't have a small space. Use them individually, display them as above, or keep them fully stacked.
Copyright 2011 by Mid Century Mod
In addition, you can find smaller appliances that function just as well as their larger counterparts. Alternately, you can use pieces in unique ways. For example, instead of getting an apartment-sized refrigerator or dishwasher, you can purchase refrigerator, freezer, and dishwasher drawers. These can also be more energy efficient.
Dishwasher drawers take up less space and are more energy efficient. You can use one or two, depending on the size of your space.
Copyright 2008 by Shawn Henning
Think about how you arrange your furniture as well. You can float pieces instead of pushing them all up against the wall. Floating also lets you use pieces as room dividers. Use wall lights over beds or sofas if you don’t have room for nightstands or end tables, or if you just want to free up space on these surfaces. You can have a room divider, such as a decorative screen, double as a headboard if you have a loft space. There are also lots of ideas for headboards that don't take up floor space. Curtains and sliding or pocket doors take up less space than standard doors. Finally, as I’ve shown in previous issues, use multi-purpose pieces and utilize vertical space.
In addition, don't forget to add some pops of color. Just make sure these are allowed by the rules and regulations. You don't want to show renters a staged space and tell them they aren't allowed to do half the things that make the space look great. Many landlords are now allowing tenants to paint, as long as they agree to return it to the original conditions when they vacate the place. For tips on painting, make sure to take my quiz, How Paint Savvy Are You?
Add pops of color with throw pillows, blankets, curtains, or candles. This pillow adds not only color, but pattern and texture -- all in one small piece.
Copyright 2013 by Wicker Paradise
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