[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]By Decorium, as shown in COLLECTIONS by Harvey Kalles Real Estate

A casual stroll through the city centre reveals more condominium activity than at any other time in Toronto’s history. With more homeowners moving “up­ in the world,” we’re seeing a growing trend toward the embracing of smaller spaces. Certainly, this can present a design challenge as we strive to make the most of our comfier quarters. To help you take full advantage of your surroundings, here are our designer’s top five tips for ­small spaces.

Paint Colour
When it comes to paint colours for a small space, white is not your only option! Although most people have a fear of painting with dark colours, they are actually great for small spaces. Dark colours camouflage the fact that it’s a small space, give a perception of depth and help give the overall illusion that it is a bigger space.

Mirrors, Glass, Lucite, and Acrylic
Almost everyone knows that the use of mirrors in small spaces can definitely make a space appear larger. Oversized mirrors that can just lean up against a wall give the illusion a room is larger and that it continues on. Also choosing furniture pieces that are made with glass, Lucite or acrylic are great for areas where space is tight. The ability to see through the piece can open up a space. Many of these materials can be found in accent tables, coffee tables, dining tables, and consoles.

Double Duty Furniture
When buying furniture for small spaces you want to look for furniture that has more than one function. A convertible love seat is great for living rooms or a spare room. Instead of the traditional sofabed, these pieces can be designed so that the seat backs recline and sides fold flat to make for an extra bed.

Create Hidden Storage
Storage is almost always an issue, especially in small spaces, but it doesn’t have to be. At Decorium, we offer tables that can actually serve four functions: Low-seated casual dining table, cocktail table, four mini ottomans and four hidden storage facilities, with each ottoman concealing a storage space underneath the leather seat. So be sure to look for versatility when selecting your furnishings.

Use all Available Space
When you think about small spaces it’s not only the floor space that you should be considering. Think about the vertical height you need to take advantage of. Besides bookshelves or tall cabinets, there are buffets that are great for more storage. Nesting tables are great space saving items. You can pull them out when you need more surfaces when entertaining and be pushed away when you’re not.

For more design tips and product ideas, visit www.decorium.com[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]