"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 begin thinking how they'd like to decorate their new home. Your condo is beautiful but feels cramped; this is when the pleasure of being a homeowner becomes replaced by the headaches of furnishing it. Will you be able decorate the way you want too and turn this house into the home you envisioned? Can you do all of this and still maximize on space and stay within your space limitations and tight budget?
You definitely can! The average size of a condo is about 600 - 750sqft but having a smaller space doesn't mean you have a lack of space. Condo living means the ability to live smarter with furniture that works for your space and not against it. With the right steps and preparation decorating your condo will be a breeze.
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). Once you've done your measurements you should know the amount of space you have, where you plan on putting your basic furniture pieces and what areas you can maximize on or that are unchangeable. If you are a visual person this would be a good time to create or request a floor plan (if you're condo offers this). Be prepared before you start shopping and save yourself time and stress; I cannot tell you how many times people have come into our store saying they purchased a sofa and they had to return it because it was too big for the living room or it didn't even fit through the door.2. CHOOSE YOUR STORE CAREFULLY
Stores such as Modern Sensibilityoffer smaller sized furniture that will fit with the space restrictions of a smaller condo. Don't waste time going to the big box stores, do some research and visit stores that target condo owners. 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 shopping 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).
3. GET THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS
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| Multi-Functional 'Smarter Furniture |
When you’re working with a small space multifunctional or "smarter furniture" will be your homes best friend. For example why take up valuable square footage on a huge dining table that you'll use 3 times a year - if that - use that area for something else, or expanding your living room and opt for a coffee table that pulls out into a dining room table at your convenience. If you can every item you bring into your home should have a dual function. A sofa bed that doubles as your daily sofa but is also easily transformed to a bed when you have guests and has hideaway storage is always a bonus. Look for pieces that offer 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, lounge or extra storage.
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. Try to stick with light neutral colours for your walls and furniture if you want to add colour let your accessories to the talking by choosing bolder colours to dress up your home. Another trick to make the room appear larger is to place a large mirror in the front hall or living room; this works because as the light reflects off the mirrors and into the room it gives the illusion of an open 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 further the problem of your home feeling and look cramped. Choosing a sofa with slim or 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. In fact with all the cool items they have for condo shopping is actually quiet fun! 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 single girl or guy, 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.
TELL US YOUR TIPS FOR LIVING LARGE IN YOUR SMALL SPACE
