Small Space Living: Tips From Top Designers

Small space translates differently to different people. While size matters, what you do with the space you have matters more. In our summer 2017 issue of Elliman Magazine , writer Kathleen Hackett highlights the expected space-saving tactics most urbanites know so well while introducing several sophisticated tips for the savvy small space dweller.   BE BOLD, FLOOD YOUR SPACE WITH LIGHT IN INVENTIVE WAYS, AND OPT FOR CUSTOM-BUILT FURNITURE.   Credit: Pia Ulin Credit: Pia Ulin   Brooklyn-based architects Anshu Bangia and William Agostinho transformed a pair of classrooms into a 1,600-square-foot modern log cabin. Blocks of color add definition to the spaces and mounted sleek custom cabinetry, built-ins and bookshelves add storage. “The color wraps, encloses and emphasizes space and function. The furniture [is] done in the same visual language as the fixed elements in the apartment,” says Bangia.   CHOOSE A HANDFUL OF LARGER PIECES OVER AN ARRAY OF SMALLER PIECES, AND KEEP YOUR FLOOR OPEN. Credit: Loupe ImagesAnna Williams In her 600-square-foot studio apartment in Manhattan’s Murray Hill, garden designer Lindsey Taylor bathed most of the walls in a warm white, then opted to “erase” the tiny kitchen, positioned at the entrance to the space, by painting it in Farrow & Ball’s Railings.   MAXIMIZE SPACE THROUGH HIDDEN TREASURES OR FEATURES THAT CAN BE STORED. Credit: Mikiko Kikuyama Credit: Mikiko Kikuyama   Credit: Mikko Kikuyama   Pulltab Design principals Melissa Baker and Jon Handley managed to design a dining room for four, as well as a proper kitchen, breakfast bar, home office, and livingmedia room in a 650-square-foot city apartment by deploying one of their signature moves: a pull-down table.   Browse our most sought-after  studio and one-bedroom condos  and start your own design story.