5 Ways To Make Small Spaces Look Elegant

Achieving a high-end looking home can be a challenge, especially if you have limited room to style. However, just because there are a few decorating speed bumps, it doesn't mean it's impossible to get your tiny home looking expensive. If you're ready to upgrade your space, here are some ideas you can start with: 

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1. Use multifunctional furniture. 

"Halimbawa, pwede mo siyang gamiting accent—pwede mo siyang gamitin na side table, at syempre, yung furniture na nagdo-double as storage pieces," advises Allen. 

2. Know what you're storing. 

"Kailangan alam mo beforehand kung ano ang mga ilalagay mo para ma-compute kung ano ang mga necessary dimensions. Important 'yun." shares Allen. 

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3. Break the rules occasionally. 

"Pwede kang maglagay ng malalaking items sa small space," says Allen." For example, if you have an oversized two- seater, you can balance it with other textured or colored pieces so it ties in with the rest of the space. 

4. Use dark colors to make a space interesting. 

"Sometimes, kailangan mo piliin yung visual interest over yung appearance na mukhang malaki ang space," says Allen. If you have white as your base, you can play with larger accessories in deeper colors to achieve a unique look. 

IMAGE Dairy Darilag

5. Bring in greens. 

"Pag nagde-design ako, may papasok palagi na halaman. Their presence brightens and softens up the space dahil organic ang shapes ng mga halaman, nakakabawas yun sa formal lines ng bahay," adds Allen. When using plants to decorate your space, it doesn't always have to look like an entire garden—try filling the home with small succulents in interesting pots instead. 

The original article ("Tiny Bliss") appeared in the August 2013 issue of Real Living Magazine.