Small space design is about using less to achieve more.
In many of today's homes, living and dining rooms are doubled up to form one large area where most activities take place. With a little creativity and a few decorating tips, you can make the most of your living space. Just remember that every detail counts.
An important basic rule is that similar colours make spaces look larger... while too many colours have the opposite effect. With this in mind, it's wise to decorate in similar shades. Choose the same shade -- or a closely related one -- for walls, rugs and major items of furniture. This will help to create an uninterrupted, harmonious flow throughout your living area, while allowing you to use your furniture in different rooms.
Don't be afraid to use colour. Even if you are partial to green walls, your ideas will work in a small space as long as you have a similar coloured sofa. The key is to use a limited palette of colours. You can introduce a wider array of colours with smaller accents such as pillows and dining room chair coverings.
Another basic rule in smaller spaces: keep your furnishings to a minimum. Furniture such as chests can do double duty as coffee tables, while providing storage space. A credenza makes the ideal entertainment unit. And when company arrives, simply pull dining room chairs over to the living room area for additional seating.
Take advantage of nature's gifts and borrow space from the outside whenever possible. Views from large windows should be the focal point of any room... so make sure you arrange your furniture to leave window space unobstructed. This will help to create the illusion that the floor space continues on to the outside.
When the final touches have been completed, put up your feet and rest assured that you have maximized your living space, while making it uniquely yours. And after all, that's a large part of what living is all about.
http://www.concordpacific.com/livingmagazine/living6/creativespaces.html
