NYC has inspired me to find creative solutions using every last square inch.   When people think NY, they conjure up images of shoe-box sized apartments.  Those who live in them likely despise them but I LOVE them.  They present challenges yes, but I enjoy a good design challenge so, bring it on.    Oh and did I mention that having a small space can be good because you can do nicer things as opposed to trying to fill a whole house.  Two of the biggest questions I get are 1. How do I find more room/make it feel larger and 2. How do I personalize it if it’s not mine?  Here comes some creative answers…

Not enough space:  You rarely have too little space; just too many favorite things.

• First, get organized.  This means everything needs a place.  If it doesn’t have a home, we all know it will likely lay out making the space cluttered and feeling all too small.  Hit the Container Store and find storage solutions for all those homeless items.  File away any paper goods or scan them to your computer for future reference.  Buy boxes and label them…because the insides don’t have to be pretty, just the outside.  Oh and don’t forget my new favorite gadget – the P-Touch for labeling everything.
• If you can afford it, build-in custom shelving and storage.  This is the ideal solution because you can design it to fit your space and special items.  It will free up so much space you’ll be surprised.
• If you think you are going to be in your apartment for awhile paint all the walls in a lacquer or high gloss.  This reflects and bounces the light around the room making it instantly feel larger. 
• Or if you don’t want to paint, add mirrors to reflect light. 
• Consider custom made furniture pieces that fit the room better than store bought ones.  Also if you customize it, you can make it multifunctional (think coffee table becomes dining table when you have guests). 

My space looks like a rental:  Only because it needs a little love and creative solutions.

• Use removable wallpaper or decal patterns to create an overall pattern.  I’ve even heard of people using masking tape to create patterns. 
• Paint the small rooms like a bathroom or entry.  These are less work to repaint when moving out. 
• While you rent is definitely the time to start acquiring your ”forever furniture.”  Begin buying items that you can keep forever even if you have to save up for a year…it will be worth it in the long run.  These pieces should have character to liven up the room.
• Add color or texture with a new area rug.
• Art – start collecting pieces that inspire you.  Check out the local art league for shows.  You can pick up some great works from up-and-coming artists at reasonable prices.
• Consider drapery because it finishes a space and adds that additional pop of color or pattern.  Even if you have to custom make it remember it can always be re-purposed into something else later if it doesn’t fit a new window.  Think:  pillows, duvet, window seat cover or even a shower curtain. 
• The best places to bring in your personality is in fabrics, art and accessories while renting.  Plus they all move with you when you’re ready. 

On May 14, 2010 Paradigm Interior Design and Nest Architectural Design were awarded first place for Primary Residence Under 3,500 SF by ASID.

Natural light floods this ranch style home located in Denver’s historic Bonnie Brae neighborhood.  The soft, neutral palette provide the perfect backdrop to the client’s extensive art collection while providing a relaxing atmosphere.

Paradigm assisted the client with paint selection, granite and tile selection, draperies, art and furniture placement and decorative lighting fixtures throughout the home. 

All pictures will be posted to the Paradigm’s ”Work” tab soon but here are some of the highlights.