"Our living space just doesn't meet our space requirements" Is the usual dilemma most condo owners face after they've signed on the dotted line for the first time and are taking the steps into furnishing their new humble abode. Your condo is beautiful but cramped, this is when the pleasure of owning a new room become replaced by the headaches of furnishing it. Will you be able to maximize on space, decorate the way you want too and turn this house into the home you envisioned? Can you do all of this within your space limitations and tight budget? This may seem like a daunting task but with the right steps and preparation decorating your condo should be a breeze.
TOP 5 TIPS TO CHOOSING FURNITURE FOR YOUR CONDO
1. KNOW WHAT YOU'RE WORKING WITH:
Before you go out shopping or even start looking at furniture take measurements of your entire living space (ie. Living room, bedroom, plus every corner and crevice). Know exactly what space you have, where you plan on putting your basic furniture pieces, areas that you can maximize on or that are unchangeable. If it helps create a visual by drawing out, or requesting a floor plan (if you're condo offers this). Be prepared before you start shopping to minimize the stress.
2. CHOOSE YOUR STORE CAREFULLY
Don't waste time going to the big box stores, do some research and visit locations that target condo owners. Stores such as Modern Sensibility offer smaller sized furniture that will fit with the space restrictions of a smaller condo. There are many stores that specialize in providing peace of mind to a new condo owner, find them! so you know that when you go you won't have to worry about falling in love with a piece that won't even fit through your front door. At condo targeted stores measurements are smaller. The length of a standard three seat sectional is 7.5 to 8ft long (96in) at a condo targeted store you will find smaller pieces starting at 5ft(60in) for the the real space deprived to an average 6ft to 7ft (72 to 86in).
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| The MAYA - Love seat with storage and fold down sofa bed. |
Look for pieces that offers you the best in style and function. Pick a piece that looks stylish (and fits your taste whether it is modern or traditional) but also offers some other type of functionality such as a bed or lounge transformation; storage is also a great option. A sofa bed that doubles as your daily sofa, but is also easily transformed to a bed when you have guests is always a bonus. If you're looking for a TV stand choose one that has hideaway drawers and ample storage space to be able to store more things than your TV and a couple of videos.
4. GO FOR THE LIGHTER HUES
Light colours give the illusion of a larger space, while darker colours make the room feel more closed in. Also, adding mirrors will help brighten up the space and give the feeling of a larger room because they reflect the light onto the surfaces and open up the space.
5. SAY NO TO THE BULK
Stay FAR away from bulkier sofa pieces, or traditional three piece sets. They take up unnecessary space and will look awkward in your smaller living room. This will only make your home feel and look cramped. Choosing a sofa with no arms is also a modern alternative that will also give the illusion of more space.
Purchasing furniture for your new condo doesn't have to be a hassle or a headache. Don't let the planning of how you're going to work with your smaller space take away from the experience of shopping for your new condo. Whether you’re a new young couple purchasing your first home, or an older couple downsizing from a larger home; all it takes is some strategic space planning, and choosing quality and functional pieces on a budget that works for you. Take all these things into consideration and you’ll have your home decorated with ease in no time. If you’re having trouble starting, start with tip 2 and come on down to Modern Sensibility where we guarantee as the “condo specialist” that we will have a piece that will meet the requirements and needs of your home.
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TELL US YOUR TIPS FOR CHOOSING CONDO SIZED FURNITURE?
