Big ideas for small space

For small spaces, it is ideal to use furniture with simple and clean designs. PHOTOS BY: LEO SABANGAN

The main objective when designing a small space is to make it feel like a home.

A home, no matter the size, needs to be comfortable and must meet the basic needs of the homeowner. It should include a place to rest, eat and entertain. It must not feel cramped, despite the space limitation.

Thus, efficiency in its design is key.

When designing a small condominium unit, we always keep two things in mind: efficiency, and what our buyers need.

Here are few simple tips on how to make a home out of your space, no matter its size.

Small units require homeowners to utilize spaces more efficiently.

DO’S

Do try to utilize all spaces efficiently. This would include designing vertically by placing shelves and storage.

Do use glass sliding doors and small partitions which help separate each area without taking too much space.

Do use furniture with simple and clean designs. This helps make the room seem less cluttered and larger than it is.

DON’TS

Don’t purchase bulky furniture. A king-sized bed may feel comfortable but it will eat too much space.

Don’t think you are limited to conventional designs or furniture. Creativity is always best when designing small spaces.

Don’t overwhelm your room with too many patterns. Clean designs and neutral colors help brighten the space.

It is important to select pieces of furniture that are multifunctional.

Basic requirements

For 8990, we make sure that our units offer the basic needs of our homebuyers.

This would include areas where they can sleep, dine, cook and entertain. Given the limited space, we try to always ensure that each square meter will be utilized efficiently.

We recommend that unit owners buy space saving furniture. Beds, sofa, and tables should be proportional to the size of the room.

It is also important to select pieces of furniture that are multifunctional given the limited space available.

For small spaces, storage is always an issue. Thus, buying furniture with extra storage is a good way to have more space and, at the same time, keep the area clutter free.

Lighting is important too in transforming a room. Eye-catching fixtures on the ceiling help make the room feel larger. Installing bulbs with softer yellow light can make the unit owner feel more relaxed especially after a tiring day at work.

Another way to make a room seem larger would be through the use of large mirrors and floor length curtains. Mirrors give the appearance of more space while long, classic panel curtains make a room seem more spacious.

At the end of it all, the key to making a small space feel like home is for the unit owner to select furnishing and fixtures that would aptly reflect his personality, allowing him to imprint a bit of himself into his living space.
The author is the assistant general manager for South Luzon at 8990 Holdings Inc.

Clean designs and neutral colors help brighten a small space.