Design tips for small spaces

An arrangement of bold pillows or a rug can easily enhance your room.

It is a common problem faced by a unit owner with a limited square footage: how to fit everything in a space scarcely large enough for a bed, much less anything else.

Ideally, your home should be your sanctuaryóone that has enough room to store personal items while giving you a much needed space to relax, dream, and be most comfortable.

But when youíre faced with a limited space, creating an area that can allow you to do all these things can be challenging. At times, the need for storage and functionality overshadows oneís desire for style, and the result is a space that is cluttered and lackluster.

But donít panic. A small space shouldnít curtail your creative streak.

Always a personal touch to your room by decorating it with what makes you happy.

The design team of Crate and Barrel offers  here some useful tips on how you can make the most out of the limited space you call home.

Instead of using a bulky wooden bedside table paired with a table lamp, replace it with a stylish and slim floor lamp and glass top side table in brass. This creates a vertical line upward and opens the space below, making the room look lighter, uncluttered and even a bit more styled.

Creating a focal point also establishes a hierarchy so you donít see just a jumble. Many times, the focal point is the head of the bed, which you can amplify with an arrangement of bold pillows or a rug to enhance your room.

In a small space, your eye might also be attracted to the window. Rather than let these two strong elements compete for attention, place the bed in front of the window to meld cohesively.

You can also dress one elementóthe bed or the windowóneutrally so it recedes and the other can take center stage. Try layering shades and light, gauzy curtains for a window treatment that is cozy but not bulky.

Wall art also draws the eye up. This effect gives an illusion of greater volume inside a small room.

Remember to always seize opportunities in a small space and always make it personal. Decorate with what makes you happy.

Room styled by Crate and Barrel Philippines Design Team. All items available at Crate and Barrel Makati,

SM Aura and Mega Fashion Hall.

Wall art gives an illusion of greater volume inside a small room.