Style Spotlight: The Littlest Space
A Start Toward Reimagining the Tiny House Concept
At a time when a curiously diverse group of people are choosing to downsize, ideas for living on a smaller scale become a source of intrigue. Between seniors craving a maintenance-free abode, environmental advocates hoping for a smaller carbon footprint, and younger people priced out of both the housing and rental markets, the drift toward Tiny Homes and other micro structures could be one of the most fascinating trends in history.
Smaller spaces require smaller and more proportional décor and furnishings. Whether a dedicated market will rise to fill those needs is anyone’s guess. In the meantime, here are a few ideas for how to deck out your little slice of heaven with appropriate and comfortable surroundings.
The most notable way to increase actual space in a mini-unit is stacking. Layering. Keeping in mind that a second story accessible through stairs only might be physically challenging, you’ve likely accepted that before making the decision to downsize. Curved staircases and angled elements in lofts create an exceptional visual impact, such as this example in a tiny space dedicated website. This diminutive abode gives off a far more spacious look with its fresh, light palette, use of natural wood, and geometric accenting.
Other considerations for making a tiny space work for you are:
COLOR
Using specific tones to make tiny spaces look bigger is no new development. But when the main living area of a micro-home needs attention, it’s important to remember that a neutral color palette works best. You don’t have to lean warm or boring; fresh grays and whites are fabulous for making little rooms look not so little. Beiges are perfect for those with a more nature-inspired goal.TEXTURE
A careful use of textured surfaces and flooring can add visual enlargement of a space that’s actually quite small. Limit texture to slender cabinetry, trim, and stationary seating such as benches. This directs the eye to that area only and creates an artificial sense of separation, which always increases the optical perspective.ACCENTS
Go simple and small with accent décor, choosing basic shapes in coordinating colors. Avoid excessively exotic fanfare. And resist the urge to not decorate, as that has the same negative impact.EFFICIENCY
Any time you can adopt an overlap of accessories and implements, let alone seating and functional space, you win in a tiny house setting. This is equally useful in a converted school bus, RV, or any compact setting. Find convertible items such as cutting boards that turn into burner pads, end tables that scoot under seating units for serving, and decorative stair pieces that serve as portable stools for utility.DOORS
A sliding barn door (with texture!) creates not just a more roomy feel, but provides privacy for sleeping spaces, storage areas, and bathrooms. Their decorative bonus is obvious and already in use for trending farmhouse style interiors.
Whether you settle on a conventional tiny house, rehab a vintage school bus, or choose to permanently camp out in a recreational vehicle, you should think smart and visualize a livable space with the help of talented designers accustomed to tackling all sorts of challenges in massive or microscopic living areas. Start with a page like this for tips.