Canadian Home Trends MAKEOVERS FOR EVERY BUDGET | Page 86

3 small space secrets michelle’s Top tips to help with your eternal search for space by designer extraordinaire Michelle Cook. 2 Planter, Live Picture, www.suiteplants.com 1 Plants are timeless and classic infusions of colour and texture. Where to put them when you don’t have the space? Try vertical gardening! It’s low maintenance living art that hangs on your wall. Under-cabinet storage can be added when there’s no light valence installed to the bottom of your cabinets. This coffee-pod holder clears clutter in a discreet and neat drawer. In bathrooms, where counter space is a luxury, mount several picture ledges to hold small toiletries. RIBBA P 3 Look at fixed design elements differently. The space under a bar height breakfast counter overhang can be utilized by placing a desk or small bookcase. This narrow depth console table fits perfectly under a counter overhang, with enough room for office essentials. Konceal K-Cup Storage Drawer, www.koncealit.com Small Space Reality Check Myth A small space’s colour scheme should be light and neutral. Reality Check Don’t be afraid to use a dark hue in a small space. Simply balance the colour with plenty of natural and artificial light, so that the room does not feel dark but rather warm and cozy. 86 .ca ww.ikea IKEA, w A-Train Console Table, Structube, www.structube.com Michelle says: “In small spaces, it’s no secret that every bit of floor and counter space is valuable real estate. While the ‘less is more’ principle applies, the reality of everyday living requires us to be storage sleuths, always on the hunt for one more square foot or inch.” edge, icture L Myth Small spaces are cluttered. Myth A small space calls for small furniture. Reality Check Two words - multi-functional furniture! A small space doesn’t have to look cluttered, especially when using furniture with built-in storage. Avoid clutter buildup by having a designated spot for items. If you are organized, you will be more likely to put items away after using them. Reality Check Don’t fall into the trap of buying ONLY small-scale furniture. Filling a space with smaller furniture will make it “feel” small. Instead, mix-and-match a large piece with a few smaller ones to create a balanced look.