Inspiration Monday: Small Space Design

Whenever I read through home and garden magazines, I’m always envious of homes large enough for a locker room style mudroom or a laundry room with folding station. But the truth is, small spaces can be fabulous too, and you don’t need to sacrifice style when furnishing them. Here’s a little inspiration from around the interweb for all you non McMansioners (um, and me too!)

I love open shelving for small kitchens. Removing the heaviness of upper cabinets makes the room feel bright and open. Plus, it discourages clutter-the enemy of all spaces large and small!

Image courtesy of A Country Farmhouse and HGTV

Open shelving works in all areas of the home, try floating shelves for books and knick knacks instead of bulky bookcases in the living room or office. Get bonus function from furniture that does double duty- like a storage ottoman or a sleeper sofa.

Image courtesy HGTV.com

Small bathrooms can be challenging- no matter the size, you still need essentials like a toilet, sink, and bath/shower. Try stealing space from the walls themselves- built in medicine cabinets add much needed storage.

Image courtesy of Better Homes & Gardens

Or, try a leggy antique table-turned-vanity for a more open feel.

Image courtesy of Better Homes & Gardens

As for sleeping- murphy beds are back and better than ever.

Image courtesy of HGTV.com

Bunk beds can be a stylish space saving solution for a kid’s room (don’t forget about bunkie boards for extra support and safety). With so many varieties (twin over twin, twin over full, etc), there’s a configuration that will work in any room.

Image courtesy Decor*Pad

Image courtesy Better Homes & Gardens

Or, you could just hire this guy to set you up in a sweet 160 sq ft airstream trailer and call it a day. Click here to view the full tour.

Image courtesy of Apartment Therapy

Do you really need to be asked twice? I think he’s taken, but let it be an inspiration to all that fabulous style can be achieved anywhere.

 

 

 

3 Responses

1. 

   Ashley@DesignBuildLove.co March 21, 2011

   I totally LOVE open shelving too! I have it in my dining room currently, and plan to do some in my kitchen as well! It’s a great storage solution and can look so attractive!

   I also love the Murphy bed idea! I have definitely thought about building one once our family grows and we need to start making the extra bedrooms more multi-functional!

   Thanks for sharing the Monday morning inspiration!

   Reply
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     Lovely Crafty Home March 21, 2011

     Can’t wait to see when you do your kitchen Ashley, I’m soooo scared to do it in mine even though I love the look LOL!

     Reply
2. 

   Furnish 123 San Antonio May 24, 2011

   It’s so true! You don’t need to sacrifice style with a small space, and these designs proove it. Mirrors, like the HUGE one over the antique table-vanity, really open up small spaces!

   Reply