WE WANT THE EYE TO THINK THE SPACE IS LARGER, SO HAVE THE SAME FLOORING FLOW THROUGHOUT.
IRWIN HOMES — Bloom & Timber Condominiums
“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
Cont’d on page 54
Parade of Homes fall 2019 27
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