Small Homes & Studios

The top trends are multifunctional furniture, a focus on biophilic design, and a move towards "color drenching" where a single rich color is used on walls, trim, and ceilings to create a unified, expansive feel. There's also a strong emphasis on smart, integrated storage solutions.

Light-colored flooring like a natural wood or light-toned luxury vinyl plank is best. Using large-format tiles with minimal grout lines also creates an uninterrupted visual flow, which makes the space seem more expansive.

Use surfaces to create visual separation without walls. A large area rug can anchor the living area, while a different flooring material like terracotta or concrete tile can define the kitchen or entryway. A slatted wood divider can separate a bedroom from the living space.

The trend is for vertical and hidden storage. Think floor-to-ceiling custom cabinetry, modular wall shelving systems, under-bed storage, and multifunctional furniture with integrated drawers or compartments.

Yes, mirrors are an excellent tool for making a small space feel larger. Place a large mirror on a wall facing a window to reflect natural light and create an illusion of depth and openness.

Quartz and solid-surface countertops are ideal. Their sleek, non-porous surfaces are easy to clean and their consistent color patterns create a streamlined look. Lighter colors help a small kitchen feel more open.

The best furniture is multifunctional and space-saving. Look for sofas that convert into beds, coffee tables with hidden storage, and nesting tables that can be pulled apart for different uses. Modular sofas are also popular for their ability to be reconfigured.

Use layered lighting to create depth. Combine a main overhead light with accent lighting (like a floor lamp or wall sconces) and task lighting (like a desk lamp). This prevents shadows and makes the room feel brighter and more spacious.

The trend is to use textured wall panels, decorative wood slats, or a bold "color drenching" technique to add personality without clutter. This creates visual interest and can make a small space feel more intentional and cohesive.

Yes, when used correctly. Instead of painting all walls a dark color, use a single, rich hue on one accent wall or practice "color drenching" where a bold color is applied to the walls, trim, and ceiling. This creates a cozy, immersive feel without making the room seem smaller.

A Murphy bed or a fold-down wall bed is the most efficient way to hide a bed. Other options include using a tall bookcase or a slatted wood screen as a divider to separate the sleeping area from the main living space.

A rug should be large enough to at least have the front legs of all key furniture pieces on it. This creates a cohesive "zone" and prevents the space from feeling disjointed. Choose a rug with a low pile for a clean look.

Yes, open shelving can make a small kitchen feel less cluttered than heavy wall cabinets. They provide a space to display curated items while freeing up the visual space on the walls.

Create a dedicated home office nook using a small, floating desk or a custom built-in unit. Use a comfortable but compact chair, and ensure the space has its own dedicated lighting to define it as a separate zone.

A floating desk is mounted directly to the wall and has no legs. This design creates a minimalist look, frees up valuable floor space, and is perfect for creating a designated work area in a tight space.

Minimize flooring transitions by using the same flooring material throughout the entire space. This creates a clean, continuous flow that makes the home feel more spacious and less compartmentalized.

Use large-format tile on the floors and walls to reduce grout lines. A frameless glass shower door also helps create a seamless look, while light-colored, reflective finishes on tile and countertops make the space feel brighter.

Biophilic design in a small space focuses on bringing in natural elements. Use wood flooring, live-edge wood desks, stone accents, and plenty of plants to create a calming, organic feel that connects you to nature.

Hidden storage is key. Use furniture with built-in drawers, decorative baskets on shelves, and storage ottomans. A "one-in, one-out" rule for new purchases can also help keep the space from getting overwhelmed.

A sensorial design for a small home is one that appeals to all five senses. It uses a mix of soft, touchable textures, warm and adjustable lighting, sound-absorbing surfaces, and natural scents to create a deeply personal and comfortable environment that feels bigger and more inviting than it is.