7 Big Ideas For Small Places
GOT A TEENY ROOM, an empty corner, or a bare wall? That’s a prime spot for a cozy nook or a little vignette. Whether you turn yours into a book-filled retreat, an intimate dining alcove, or a snug seating area, a “room within a room” feels instantly inviting. And as these Airbnbs show, it’s not hard to pull off — all you need are some smart styling strategies.
IDEA 1: READING AREA
Why It Works
A tone-on-tone scheme helps this space feel roomy and clutter-free, even when the shelves are stacked with a big mix of items (books, microwave, portraits), says designer Emily Henderson. “The pops of red add life,” she says. “For a quieter vibe, you could replace the chair with a navy velvet one.” Prefer to play up contrasts? “Swap out the rattan pendant for a sleek, industrial-style metal fixture,” suggests lifestyle blogger Will Taylor.
Get a similar look:Raleigh Green (walls); Goodwin Green (bookcase); each from $40 per gallon, benjaminmoore.com
IDEA 2: DINING NOOK
Why It Works
A big dose of symmetry (matching chairs, identical pillows) gives this corner its own distinctive look, says Taylor. “If you want to get a little less formal, just mix up the arrangement and assortment of throw pillows so they’re not so uniform.”
A cushioned banquette is a practical choice when space is tight, adds designer Vanessa De Vargas. “It gives you more seating and makes you want to plop down and hang out for a while.”
Get a similar look: Factory Light №4 rod pendant, from $269, schoolhouse.com
IDEA 3: COMMAND CENTER
Why It Works
Color blocking adds visual interest to a wall that has no molding or other architectural elements, says Henderson. “I also love that the seascapes here aren’t evenly spaced. When art is arranged haphazardly, it feels more natural and casual.” The different wood tones and textures warm up this little area, adds designer Sabrina Soto. “You could enhance that by adding an indoor plant in the basket.”
IDEA 4: STORY-TIME SPOT
Why It Works
Hanging books so you can easily see them is a genius display idea, says De Vargas. And the rack does double duty as a whimsical graphic element, Taylor points out. “I love the woven basket for collecting stray toys,” he adds, “but you could replace it with a small side table and lamp if you wanted a warmer look with more reading light.”
Get a similar look:Balance №2 limited edition print by Lindsay Stetson Thompson, from $47 (framed), minted.com
IDEA 5: VANITY CORNER
Why It Works
Nothing beats the versatility of a shelf, mirror, and framed print trio, says Griffin: The combo works not only as a getting-ready area but also as an instant foyer. In this bedroom version, the pairing of rustic (wood shelving) and refined (antique mirror) “is perfection,” says designer Amber Lewis. “If you didn’t want to use the space for seating, it would also look great to stack some books on the vintage stool.”
Get a similar look:Laurent mirror, $498, thebellacottage.com
IDEA 6: ALL-IN-ONE LOUNGE
Why It Works
When you’re limited on hangout space, a tight color palette, like the pink and neutral scheme in this studio alcove (top), can give the illusion of a larger room, says designer Elaine Griffin. Stick with streamlined furniture, too. “A non-bulky, armless fold-over sofa is a perfect pick for a tight space.”
If you’re lucky enough to have a picturesque view (above), spotlight it with a seating area by the window, says Lewis. This one is dressed up with plush textures and anchored with a cluster of wall art.
Get a similar look:Bumper large ottoman, $299, bludot.com
IDEA 7: GUEST BEDROOM
Why It Works
Floating shelves free up floor space, so they make the best bedside tables in cramped quarters, says Griffin. If the shelves are short, “consider adding another beneath each to rest a phone or water,” says Soto. With no room for lamps, over-the-bed lighting is a must, says Griffin. “Just be sure the sconce is high enough — or the bed is moved out from the wall — to avoid head bumps in the night.”
About the author: Betsy Goldberg is the deputy editor (Home) of Airbnb Magazine. Previously she was the deputy editor of Real Simple and HGTV Magazine, editorial content director at Bed Bath & Beyond, and an editor at UsWeekly, Modern Bride, and New York Magazine. She is co-author of BusinessWeek’s Guide to the Best Business Schools. Her writing has also appeared in Glamour, Health, Martha Stewart Weddings, and Money.
