How to Downsize and Make Your New Space Multi-Purpose

Posted in Accessories, Art, Color, Decluttering, Feng Shui, Furniture, Interior Design, Residential Design on November 28, 2018

Have you decided to downsize? If so, I have a few helpful tips to make your smaller space work for you. A client I recently worked with named Jeannine decided she was ready to downsize into a single-family home in a new development in Victoria, Minnesota. She hired me to pick out new furniture and accents, re-use some of her current furnishings, and make the most of her artwork. “Julie Ann has gotten to know me now; we’ve worked together for years. She listens to what you like and your style. She guides me through the process and it always turns out perfect,” said Jeannine.

Jeannine’s style is simple and uncluttered – the perfect companion to Feng Shui design principals. I worked with two colors in the whole house; a main color on the walls and accent color to bring color and life to the home (see photo below). I found light gray fabric barstools and used Jeannine’s existing art for the walls in the dining room, which really tied the room together. Tip: Vinyl flooring is more durable than real wood; this particular type is top-quality – it’s scratch-resistant and easy to care for.

 

 

 

 

 

In the living room, I found a smaller sectional that better fit the space and added the rug, end table, and pillows as affordable accents. Jeannine said she gets many compliments on the couches that I chose for her home. Tip: Use round tables and mirrored tops to make the space flow.

 

 

 

 

 

The sunroom in Jeannine’s home is connected to the living room, so to create continuity, I chose the same rug for both rooms but in different sizes – this makes the space appear larger and conjoined. Jeannine’s favorite part of the project is the rugs, which she felt the other furnishings and accessories were inspired by. “They made the whole house,” she said. The wood tone leather ottoman is the perfect place to relax. Tip: Angle your area rugs for added interest.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

To accommodate Jeannine’s no-fuss style, I found a simple and very comfortable sofa for the den, and then accented it with new pillows for color. Some additional design recommendations would be to add some art and decorative window treatments to pull the look together. Tip: Reuse your favorite items in a new way. Margie Kampf of Metro Interiors took the client’s beloved bench and brought it into the den as an ottoman. The tray adds a fun touch for drinks and snacks.

 

 

 

 

 

 

On the other side of the den, I created a workstation that converts easily to a relaxing TV-watching space. This is the perfect example of a multi-purpose room! I added fun accents, such as art above the desk and the red vase and silk orchid on the shelf. Jeannine added her own meaningful art and photos to the shelving units. Tip: Adding faux or real plants always livens up a space.

 

 

 

 

 

If you need help downsizing and decluttering, I can help. Contact me for a design consultation today.

 

Warm Regards,

Julie Ann