"Whenever we have a visual transition, the
space shrinks. Gone are the days where
we're putting carpet in the living room. We
want the eye to think the space is larger, so
have the same flooring flow throughout."
In terms of colour scheme, a neutral palette
is the way to go. Creams, beiges, greiges,
whites and greys are all solid hues for
creating an airy effect. Adding a pop of
colour is dandy, but limit it to less-committal
textiles like toss pillows, throws and drapes,
Kosman says. Artwork is another safe way to
add colour without overcrowding the place.
Mirrors are still a trusty way to trick the
eye into making a space feel larger than
it is. Same goes for lighting. Kosman
suggests layering fixtures like recessed
pot lights with pendants, lamps and under-
cabinet lighting to keep the wattage up
and the dreariness down.
As far as furniture goes, it's a matter of
finding pieces that are compact without
looking like they belong in a dorm room.
Look for couches with deep seating but
skinnier arms so they don't crowd the living
room. Coffee tables and shelving units
should be white and compact to avoid
looking clunky. You can even buy slim-line
recliner chairs that are just as comfy as the
oversized, overstuffed man-cave variety.
But a small home can't thrive on decor and
furniture alone — it has to be organized,
practically to the point of minimalism. This
especially goes for folks who have kids or
those who have recently downsized from
a house to a condo. Large wicker baskets
and storage solutions are must-haves for
toys, and sometimes you just have to be
willing to take things down a notch.
SIZE MATTERS
— Cont'd from page 25
WE WANT THE
EYE TO THINK
THE SPACE IS
LARGER, SO
HAVE THE SAME
FLOORING FLOW
THROUGHOUT.
Cont'd on page 54
IRWIN HOMES — Bloom & Timber Condominiums
Parade of Homes fall 2019 27
