How to Choose Furniture for a Small Space

by Mary Ann Romans | More from this Blogger

26 Feb 2009 03:19 PM

While the average home in America is upwards of 2.500 square feet, apartment dwellers usually don't have that same amount of space. In fact, in major cities, apartments can be quite tiny. I, myself, grew up in a small apartment and have learned a few things about small space living. Here are my tips.

Use small scale furnishing for your space. Many manufacturers specialize in furniture that is functional but made to a smaller scale than the average. Sleek profiles can give you more breathing space. Not only will it look as though your rooms are larger, but they will actually feel larger as well.

Choose furniture with hidden storage. Under the bed drawers, window boxes that double as seating or kitchen benches with storage will all give you the space you need. Save the closets, if you have any, for hanging and storing items that you use every day, such as clothing and even small appliances. Any time that you can, choose furniture containing storage over furniture that just takes up room or has hidden air space.

Furniture that can be reconfigured to suit different living arrangements is always a plus in a small space. Sectional pieces that can be taken apart and used separately or combined can give you the most flexibility when you want a change or need to take advantage of a small or strangely shaped spot in your room.

Don't choose too many tall pieces. While tall pieces can take advantage of high ceilings, they can also block windows which in a small space is easy to do. Windows can reduce the amount of wall space you have for furniture, so work with them rather than against them.

Furniture that serves more than one purpose is ideal for a small space. Day beds or couches that can serve for sleeping or tables that can serve as desks will mean that you need less furniture to fill the space.

Choose furniture that is clear to make it seem to disappear in the room, making the room appear larger. Mirrored surfaces can sometimes do the same thing.

Mary Ann Romans writes about everything related to saving money in the Frugal Blog, creating a home in the Home Blog, caring for little ones in the Baby Blog and now relationships in the Marriage Blog. You can read more of her articles by clicking here or subscribe to the blog using the subscription box on the right.

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Learn more about Mary Ann Romans

Mary Ann Romans is a freelance writer, wife and mother of three children. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, the kids and a 16-pound cat.

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