Small Spaces Don't have to be Crowded Spaces

Small spaces are a challenge for anyone when it comes to not only decorating them but making them functional as well as pretty.  

If you're a renter, you can't really grab a sledgehammer and start knocking out walls....well...you can, but your landlord will probably not be happy.

Dining rooms seem to be the most sacrificed when builders construct houses and/or apartments.  You don't really get an actual dining room, you get a dining nook or corner.

This month's post will be full of tips and pictorials to give you a few idea's on how to make your dining area both functional and pretty.  

My very favorite thing to do in a small dining nook is banquets.  If you're wood working savvy, then go all out with it.  But, if you're not, then you can either build a simple box design or you can purchase a few benches and throw some comfy cushions on them.  

Trust me folks, this is a simple and easy design.  All you have to do is built a box out of sturdy lumber that you can have the big box store cut to your measurements.  Once you get it home, nail it together and slap it in place.  Add a small table and some cushions and you have a great, comfy dining nook.

Better Homes & Gardens had this great idea.  Get a couple of kitchen cabinets that match the rest of your cabinets.  Cut some plywood to fit on the top, nail it down, add cushions, a small table, a couple of small chairs and you're ready to eat.

Notice that this is monochromatic?  The color uniformity will trick the eye into believing there's more room than there is.

The key to making your nook feel larger than it is?  Minimize the number of colors and textures.  The more colors and textures, the more it clutters the eye.  It doesn't have to be ugly to be spare.

If you don't have an actual nook, try putting a small table and a couple of chairs beneath the windows.

Notice in this nook they've kept the walls white and added pops of color here and there?  It looks inviting but clean.

Now that you've been introduced to banquets, go out and try it!  I promise, it's not expensive and it's not hard.  

As always, enjoy your space!