Ville Magazine l Insider Access for City Lifestyle Mar/Apr 2016 / People Issue - Page 36
HOME DESIGN
OPTICAL
ILLUSION
When we move into a new apartment, we think of the whole situation as temporary, especially if the apartment
is small. With bare walls and lackluster design, we trudge through our daily routines. Even though your situation
may be temporary, it’s time to move in and make your apartment a home. Just check with your landlord first
and let the fun begin.
Quick Tips: Invest in simple furniture with good bones that has the ability to play double duty. Utilize every
surface and corner for storage. Evaluate need vs. want when buying anything. Declutter monthly taking unused
or useless items to a donation center. Set a 15-minute timer every day and see how much you can clean in that
time. Invest in a blow-up mattress for last minute guests. Written by: Amy Gruntner / Photos: shutterstock.com
LIVING ROOM
When furnishing a small living room, steer away from oversized, overdesigned furniture
and stick to pieces with simple lines and a good structure; this will help your space not
seem too crowded or smaller than it is. When designing a small space; functionality is key.
You want furniture that can play double duty -- like a sleeper sofa or nesting tables that can
be brought out to accommodate more people. Clutter can overcrowd a small space very
quickly, so don’t go overboard when accessorizing your living room. Use glass objects and
mirrors to reflect light, making the space seem light and airy. Add color to the walls and
large paintings to create the illusion of windows.
KITCHEN
Depending on the size of your family, decide if a table in your kitchen is a necessity -especially if you already have an island that you can put stools around. If you’re low on
storage space, install floating shelves and store ingredients in clear containers. Also, use
an open shelving unit to store pots, pans, and dishes. For more prep space, get a butcherblock island with storage underneath that can easily be wheeled throughout the space. Use
fresh flowers and potted herbs to add color.
BEDROOM
Keep things light and airy in the bedroom by using light-colored paint on the walls. Use
small floating nightstands or stools to discourage clutter. Add modern wall sconces on
either side of the bed to add a unique functional touch. Chances are your closet space is
limited, so use clear plastic containers and switch between seasons. Store containers under
your bed or on your closet floor. You can also get a metal clothing rack to hang clothing;
purchase one with a flat bottom for shoe storage.
BATHROOM
The key to a tidy bathroom is to only keep products you are actually using. Before your
monthly Sephora haul, toss items you didn’t end up liking or even trying. Organize makeup
and cotton swabs in clear containers so you can easily find things. To make your bathroom
seem bigger, use light colors and accessorize with a soft colorful rug and bright prints on
the walls.
SPARE ROOM
If you have a spare room, ensure it serves a dual purpose -- like an office/guest room. To
save space, use a daybed for guests. Get a desk that has plenty of drawers for storage. Install
a closet system to serve as storage for everything that doesn’t have a home. If your spare
room is your child’s room, keep it simple yet whimsical. Add pops of color with painted
furniture, rugs, and wall art. Use bookshelves that are low to the ground for easy access.
Store toys in wire baskets so it’s easy for your child to find exactly what they need. Donate
toys on a monthly basis to clear clutter or make room for new items. If your children are
sharing the room, use smaller beds, bunk beds, or a trundle bed to save space.
36 l VILLE l PEOPLE ISSUE