5 Ideas To Maximize Style and Function for Your Small Space

Decorating / September 13, 2018

5 Ideas To Maximize Style and Function for Your Small Space

An entryway out of thin air.

We all dream of having a separate entryway, perhaps with moldings, an antique door and a transom above it, but for those of us who just have a little bit of wall space, and not much else, it’s possible to create a conceptually separate space by adding a long bench (perfect for taking shoes on and off), a basket for storage and, most importantly, a visual focal point on the wall. Just like in this inspiration image, three sconces running the length of the bench along with a small gallery wall can make a big design impact.

Light fixture featured: The Atwell Sconce in Aged Zinc, $249

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What about a “Girl Cave”?

Have an extra room that’s too small to be a guest bedroom? We think a Girl Cave would be a great use for that space – a place to dream up your next big idea, sip a glass of rosé with a friend or just get away from it all. Contrary to common practice, one large statement piece like this hanging rattan chair and some stylish, yet discreet lighting, can make a small room feel bigger. Look for lighter yet properly proportioned wall sconces to free up floor space.

Light fixture featured: The Denton Sconce in Industrial Iron, $135

Give cocktail hour a bit of swank.

Rituals give our daily routines a bit of meaning and zest. Even a small space can handle a bar area with a small-scale bar cart and bold wall sconce. Choose a lighting source that diffuses light (one with a shade, or a back-plate to reflect light) with a low-wattage and lower than 2700 kelvins (which means a very warm light) bulb.

Light fixture featured: The Boyer Sconce in Oil Rubbed Bronze, $139

Create interest even with little architectural charm.

If your entertaining spaces seems more “box” than “parlor,” wallpaper and the right pairing of décor can go a long way to disguise the lack of architectural charm. Mix a bold yet elegant pattern with lighting that has a traditional profile for a combination that will make a stylish impact. Remember to keep the rest of the room simple and clutter free to avoid overdoing it!

Light fixture featured: The Ascher Sconce in Brushed Caramel, $289

Your moment of zen.

Outdoor spaces can be just as personal as those that are indoors – any exterior square footage we have can be completely transformed to become our place to unwind or connect. It starts with a great color choice for your home’s exterior (we love shades of gray for this), a small amount of landscaping (this gravel feature gives interest and breaks up the visual surface area of the decking), and few but well-thought-out décor (who said outdoor lighting has to be basic?). We recommend keeping your color palette neutral for outdoors spaces to ensure that nature is the center focus, but if you are fan of bold tones, switch them in and out with dishware, pillows, and table linens.

Light fixture featured: The Compass Lantern in Oil Rubbed Bronze, $279

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Written by Victoria de la Camara

Images Courtesy of Hinkley Lighting

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History’s greatest designers have viewed constraints as the best canvas upon which to create. Limitations create focus and sharpen creativity. You may look at your small living room, half bedroom, or outdoor deck as a space without a lot of possibilities – perhaps that awkward corner really is an obstacle – but hopefully by the end of this article, you’ll come away with tips and inspiration to turn that lack-luster space into something you rave about. Let us bring a little designer’s imagination to your spatial conundrums by using the right lighting and other tricks. Click on our slideshow to begin!