When it comes to decorating your place, the small space and smaller budget you’re working with doesn’t excuse the souvenir shot glass collection motif you’re still rocking from college. Deck out your digs like a grown-up instead with these wallet-friendly tips from local interior design pros. –Gwendolyn Purdom
Multipurpose pieces
In a small space, something like an ottoman that can double as seating, a table and open up for easy storage is going to be a much more efficient choice than trying to squeeze in all four items, said Tara Shade, creative director at Nate Berkus Associates.
Hunt for treasure
Dig around Craigslist, thrift shops and antique stores for inexpensive and unique finds. Even Mom and Dad’s attic can prove to be a trove of unexpected riches, said Dean Renaud, lead designer at Homepolish Chicago. “Every time I go back home [to my parents’ house,] I’m like, ‘Wow, this has been in my house my whole life and I never realized how cool it was!'”
Get crafty
For the artistically inclined, DIY projects can add a personal touch without breaking the bank. Try framing sheets of decorative paper from a paper store and creating a tiled look in your front hall, or swapping out a boring light fixture with a funky paper lantern for a fresh feel, Renaud said.
Play with scale
“Just because it’s a small space doesn’t mean you need to use small furniture. Choose regular size pieces so that the scale feels right,” said Nate Berkus, who has a home decor line at Target and a new show on NBC (“American Dream Builders”) in addition to his Chicago-based design firm. “Commit to a full-size sofa. That way you’ll have one comfortable place for you and your guests to sit.” Small rugs are one of the most common missteps, the experts agreed. Filling your small space with an oversized rug and even artwork will add drama and balance. “If you have at a least one large piece that really makes a statement in the room, that’s going to make a big visual difference,” Shade said.
Use color
Never underestimate the power of a coat of paint. White walls can make sun-drenched rooms feel airy, but don’t be afraid to go dark, especially in rooms that are unusually shaped or look out onto the building next door, leaving them without much natural light (a widespread Chicago issue). The bold color can make the space feel cozy or even bigger, according to Richar of Richar Interiors. “When you do a rental and there’s a lack of interest in terms of architecture, what does it is always color,” he said.
Trick the eye
Something as simple as hanging curtains above your windows–Renaud suggests about four inches from the ceiling–instead of flush with the frame pulls the eyes up and makes the room feel taller.
Lighten up
Focused lighting can open a room, said Afiya H. Kumar of AHA Designs. Bold lamps are also great smaller pieces that can create a big style impact.
Stay organized
“In a small space, you’re not going to have a formal foyer or a big mudroom in the back door, so you need some place to be able to put hats, coats, especially in the winter time, where you’re not tripping over shoes,” said Kumar. Organization and smart storage in general will keep your apartment from feeling cluttered or claustrophobic.
Don’t settle
If you don’t throw many dinner parties, then why bother with a formal dining set? Don’t let the pressure to have everything you’re supposed to have get to you. “People feel really rushed to get their space finished, and when you have a budget, it’s not possible,” said Renaud. “Sometimes, if you can just wait six months, maybe you’ll have more money or maybe you’ll happen to find that amazing yard sale piece for $100. I think people feel so pressured often they’ll be like ‘Well, here’s something at Ikea that’s $100, I’m just going to get that.’ If you can wait and you can continue to look, you’ll find that piece that’s awesome and you’ll love it forever.”
