Think Outside The Shoebox!

It's no secret that large living spaces in big cities are hard to come by. So comes the challenge of maximizing your living space! Don't feel inhibited because you're short on square footage.  You can still entertain and do all the things you would otherwise do. Think outside the box moment: Design your space for how you live not for the space you live in.  I know, it may not seem like a major revelation but it is. If you design for how you live you'll find design solutions that will maximize the use of your space.  If you design based on your lack of space, you'll start nixing things, ideas, whatever, before you even get started. You love to garden, but have no terrace, patio, etc. Design your space so you can incorporate a container garden. You like bike riding but don't want to forfeit precious floor space. Mount that baby on the wall and wah-la, storage and art at the same time!

Take a look at this space I designed for a woman who lives in an L-shaped studio and loves entertaining and having dinner parties. It's 319 square feet but it sure doesn't feel like it. There are designated areas that address all her living requirements. If a small space is well designed you may find it hard to leave when the opportunity for a larger space is presented.  So make the most out of your shoebox no matter what size your foot-age is!!  :)



This is a studio but their is certainly room enough to entertain a dinner party of six and then have great conversation afterwards. You should never feel like you have to skimp on style because you're short on space.  I don't really like to break up space with screens and things because it tends to compartmentalize the space and make it feel smaller. This studio is very elegant and effectively suits the needs of its owner. Brava!