The Best Tricks for Small Spaces

Tips for Creating Openness
In the living room, a comfortable sofa and one armchair provide seating. Both items have exposed legs which give the illusion of more floorspace. The furniture's neutral tones blend well with the wall color, a simple trick to open up the space.

The coffee table is another example of visual trickery. The glass top has plenty of room for magazines or flowers, but the top disappears with minimal accessories, allowing a view of the hardwood floors below.

It's better to have fewer items on display when there's limited room to showcase them. Ask yourself if a piece adds beauty to your home or if it just adds clutter. Instead of hanging an assortment of random frames here and there, hang an oversize painting, like Katie did between the dining room and kitchen.

Character Counts
Although she wanted to update her Vieux Carre digs, Katie didn't want them to lose their personality. If you have a small home, make the most of it by preserving elements that add panache. Then your itty-bitty space will shine.

Sources:
Construction by Paul Badeaux, CB Construction, New Orleans; carpentry by Joe Calderon; painting by David Harouni, www.harouni.com; wall color is Bone White by Benjamin Moore; trim and cabinet color is Navajo White by Benjamin Moore.