The unstable economy has made many homeowners and renters think more closely about their mortgage and rental expenses. Many people, whether by choice or out of necessity, are downsizing their life and embracing life in a smaller home or apartment.
Small spaces definitely pose challenges, especially when it comes to furniture and decorating, but many renters and owners of tiny spaces find this lifestyle liberating and cozy. Many say they would never go back to living in a big home or apartment.
Here are some unique decorating ideas for how to make the most of life in a small home.
Multifunction Furniture: Sleeping and Sitting Options
If you live in a super-tiny apartment with very little square footage, it is almost a necessity to find decor and furniture that serves double duty. Inexpensive and easy to assemble, futons are a great choice for those with a small budget or a tiny space. With the flip of a switch or button, a futon can transform from a couch to a bed in seconds.
You and your guests will have a comfortable place to get together, and at night you can quickly convert your futon into a bed. Some futon mattresses can be uncomfortable, so having an extra microfiber or memory foam mattress stashed in the corner is a great idea. Futons look great in any contemporary-styled home.
Foldaway beds and convertible ottomans are other great multifunction furniture pieces to have in a small space. A large, convertible covered ottoman can easily serve as a coffee table and a foot rest by day. At night, lift off the cover and fold out your very own comfortable twin bed.
Convertible ottomans often feature cushioned mattresses and lots of support, which makes them just as supportive as a regular bed. Sofa beds are also a great choice for small spaces. Many sofa beds now come with deluxe airbed systems, ensuring you will sleep like a baby every night.
Functional and Stylish: Wall Mirrors Create Openness
One of the best, little-known designer secrets for creating an open, airy room is to add oval, square or round wall mirrors in your home. Aside from being functional, wall mirrors reflect the available light within your home. They create the illusion of taller ceilings and having more space. Wall mirrors are a great optical illusion, and they look handsome and sophisticated when blended in with virtually any type of decor.