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In Seattle apartment and condo living offers many locations and styles. One thing most of the units share is a small space, often 600 square feet or less. As an interior designer I have ideas and tips to make small spaces feel larger and spacious. Here are some suggestions from Faith Sheridan Interior Design.

• Increase the height of your room by adding curtain or drapery panels floor to ceiling. Hang them outside the window or even where they are no windows. Plus they add softness to the standard-issue shades that come with the units.
• Tables and chairs of Lucite or glass communicate openness and are also functional.

Drapery panels and Lucite tables

• When you add multiple sources of light, your space seems to grow. Use several lamps to cast a warm glow. Up-lights placed behind a plant or corner grouping will create a focal point and some drama. Dimmers allow you to set the mood when friends arrive.
• Fit the furniture to the space. Over sized furniture shrinks space while moderate sized pieces add to it. Balance the furniture to one another, e.g. keep the lamps and tables in proportion to the sofa and chairs. A glass coffee table expands space visually.
• Because most apartments and condos are boxy and rectangular, it’s effective to use round tables or chairs with curves. Or add a rug that’s oval or round with a pattern that continues the rounded shapes.

Foreign Accents

• Use wall space effectively with floating shelves. When you place shelves horizontally the eye moves the same way. Place and store functional items on the shelves but also accessories like candles, boxes and a few collectibles. Always edit to avoid clutter.

Tags: apartment, condos, decorating, Faith Sheridan, Seattle, small spaces
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