I often showcase glamorous homes that are full of lush grounds and beautifully designed rooms, but if you live in the city like me, you are aware that is just not a reality. A great apartment with decent square footage is not easy to find. However, just because your space is small doesn’t mean that the personality of your home should be as well.
I always look forward to the House Beautiful issue that showcases fantastically designed rooms in small spaces. For all my high-rise living friends and small home owners, I implore you to find last month’s issue and get inspired by all that your small space has to offer. My best advice is to maximize every bit of furniture, cabinet space, and potential hidden storage areas. Quality over quantity should matter most, right?
If you don’t believe me, look at this 800 square foot (yes, you read that right) apartment designed by Ashely Whittaker for her 30 year old, single in the city client. It is feminine, flirty, and full of personality. Following, look at the 725 square foot elegant apartment designed by Kelly Giesen.
Photos of Ashley Whittaker’s design are by Thomas Loof for House Beautiful.
Photos of Kelly Giesen’s design are by Peter Murdock for House Beautiful.
800 Square Feet
Designed by Ashley Whittaker
Incredible entry with Osborne & Little wallpaper in a bold pattern and a Ballard Designs side table. A common misconception about small spaces is that people feel they need to go neutral. Be bold with pattern, print, and texture. Have some fun!
A fabulously feminine living room. You can see the entry to the right and the kitchen to the left. This is a tiny space. The gray walls open up the room, while the pink and lavender add soft color.
A lovely corner of the living area holds a desk, bench for extra seating, and a bar cart for entertaining. The large framed art and bold accent patterns make the space come alive.
A light and cheerful kitchen- how all small kitchens should be! There is nothing worse than a kitchen that is small, dark, and incredibly unhandsome.
Quadrille wallpaper in a lime green lines the hallway. The bedroom has custom shades to add a soft and sophisticated touch.
725 Square Feet
Designed by Kelly Giesen
Giesen added the closets on each side of the door to create a foyer effect. Also, the mirrored paneling makes the room seem larger. As you can see, when you enter you walk straight into the kitchen.
The marble and rich looking cabinetry give a high-end appeal to the apartment.
A glamorous accent of blue pattern. The molding in this apartment is truly stunning. Notice again how there are more mirrored-window effects in this room.
The lovely bathroom right off of the kitchen and entry. The whole space is very reflective.
A lovely blue wall with some silver wallpaper imprints. I love the calming and elegant simplicity of this room. The chandelier can be purchased through the designer, Kelly Giesen.
To see more images of these apartments visit House Beautiful: Ashley Whittaker & Kelly Giesen