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5 TIPS FOR DECORATING SMALL

SPACESBy: Maria Alessi

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INTRODUCTIONhttp

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Decorating small spaces can be challenging, particularly if you

want to create a space that is both functional and visually

appealing. The choices that you make both in terms of furniture

and decor will inevitably decide the success of your design

scheme. Your intended use of the space available to you need not

necessarily be confined by the inherent space limitations. Some

clever design choices can help you achieve both the look and

function that you require, even when you need your space to

multitask. The following tips should help you to ensure that you

have the beautiful space that you want.

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1. USE LIGHT COLORS

� When decorating small spaces, the use of light colors for wall and floor coverings, and furniture will create the illusion of greater space. Using neutrals such as white, ivory and pale grey will allow you scope to personalise your design scheme with your preferred contrast colors. You may choose to continue with a neutral palette or to inject some bold colorsinto your design. Another tip (bonus!) is to use some horizontal

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into your design. Another tip (bonus!) is to use some horizontal stripes, perhaps by using a striped wallpaper on an accent wall. You know the way that those of us who are not skinny millinys are advised against wearing horizontal stripes as they draw the eye outward, well the same principle can be used to our advantage in home decor.

� You can use dark colors in small spaces if you want to create a cosy room or for example if you are looking to achieve the classic gentlemans office look or again for an accent wall.

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2. GLASS AND PERSPEX FURNITURE

� If you choose glass and clear Perspex furniture your space will

appear less cluttered. The transparent nature of your furniture

will allow light to travel through it, making it almost invisible to

those viewing your room. Glass tables are widely available from

furniture stores. Although glass and Perspex chairs were once the

realm of high-end, contemporary designers, they are becoming

more accessible.

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more accessible.

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3. MULTIFUNCTIONAL FURNITURE

� When you are selecting furniture for your space,

you should try to choose multifunctional pieces.

For example, you might choose a coffee table that

also provides concealed storage or a full loft bed

that offers a desk and storage but that will

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that offers a desk and storage but that will

occupy the same space as a normal bed.

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4. STACKABLE AND FOLDABLE FURNITURE

� Furniture that folds neatly away or that can be stacked in a small

space, provides you with the opportunity to increase the function

of your room. If you have a small bedroom that you need to use as

a home office, a wall bed can be folded out of sight during the day

while you work. If you wish to entertain guests, but do not have

the space for a large dining table and the accompanying chairs in

permanent position, you could choose a dining table that folds and

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permanent position, you could choose a dining table that folds and

chairs that either fold or can be stacked. You will have the benefit

of using them when required without them overcrowding your

room on a day to day basis

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5. MIRROR

� Placing a large panel of mirror on the wall directly opposite the

entrance to your room will give the illusion of greater space and

depth to the room. This use of mirror provides the greatest

impact, however if this is not possible or to your taste, you may

consider using a large mirror in the room instead. This option will

still add to the sense of space in your room.

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CONCLUSION

� When space is at a premium our design choices

can help maximise the value we gain from our

property. Decorating small spaces has its

challenges but they are not insurmountable. It is

particularly satisfying, when we achieve more

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particularly satisfying, when we achieve more

than we thought possible, in design and indeed in

life!

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MORE HOME INTERIORS TIPS & ADVICE

Why not pay us a visit at:

VIVA Home Interiors

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VIVA Home Interiors

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