In a compact space, choosing just-right furnishings can make
all the difference between your home feeling cramped or comfortable. From
practically invisible acrylic chairs to shelving that flexes with the needs of
your space, these 10 furniture pieces should be on any small-space-dweller’s
must-have list.
1. Pedestal table. A round table with a slender pedestal
base tucks into small spaces with ease. The round edge means no bumping into
sharp corners, and the (nearly) leg-free base makes it easier to squeeze one
more friend around the table.
2. Shelving that can go vertical or horizontal. Instead of
choosing the largest possible shelving unit that will fit your space, consider
picking up a few versatile cubby-like shelves that can stand upright or lie
flat. A pair can stand side by side on a big wall; be separated for use in
different rooms; or flank a sofa, as shown here. Positioned horizontally, a
sturdy shelf can even do double duty as a bench.
3. Stack of stools. Just because you don’t have room for
bulky armchairs and a giant sofa doesn’t mean you won’t have a need for ample
seating. One solution is to tuck a stack of stools in a corner — when extra
guests pop by, you can simply unstack the stools.
4. Big mirror. If you’re going to buy only a few items to
make the most of your small space, a great, big mirror should definitely top
the list. Hanging a large mirror instantly makes a small room feel bigger and
brighter. Position it across from a window for maximum light-boosting power.
Budget tip: To get the look of a big mirror without spending
a fortune, pick up two or three simple full-length mirrors and hang them side
by side. Back-to-school is a good time to find full-length mirrors on sale;
look for them in the dorm-decorating section.
5. Small-scale armchairs. Bulky armchairs may be cozy, but
they also take up a ton of floor space. In a compact living room, you can pack
more seating into the available space by choosing armless chairs, or armchairs
with an upright profile like the barrel chairs shown here. And if you move into
a larger space in the future, a pair of small-scale armchairs can round out a
larger seating arrangement, or flank a console table in a spacious entry hall.
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