Advice on furnishing a small room

[babysham]

So I'm moving into a small room in a condo. It's roughtly a 10x10 room I need some advice/tips on furnishing it so that I can maximize the space.

I was thinking of just putting a futon in there instead of a bed. That way I can open it up in the night time when I am going to bed. Also, I don't really need a desk, because I am using a laptop.

What other suggestions would you recommend to furnish the place without making it too cluttered?

[cipher]

http://apartments.about.com/cs/smallspace/

Also look up Feng Shui to avoid clutter.

[me!]

there are some really good books on how to effectively utilize space in small rooms. I even think there is a mag. about this and a show too.

Stowaway and hideaway storage is very useful.

[markreda]

When you don't have a lot of floor space you'll need to optimize your wall-space.
Use tall book cases to store your stuff/books/etc.

Visit an IKEA to get ideas for furnishing your room, you can actually sit in the room and get a feel for how to set things up.

For storage it might be a good idea store things under the bed/futon, Rubbermaid makes plastic bins for under bed stoage with wheels (a great idea for small spaces).

[daisyville]

This months issue of Canadian House and Home features some small space ideas.

As another member suggested, HGTV has a show called "This Small Space" which airs frequently, and is Canadian in content.

The futon is a good idea. Also, try and use light and airy objects rather than dark. For instance, there are lucite chairs and end/coffee tables available (Caban, among others) which provide the function of an occasional table, yet the visual space around and through it.

Again, use height rather than floor space where possible. Use practical shelving units to store things like books and televisions and any additional audio-visual equipment.

I can't say enough about editing. Peopl tend to collect things, and far too often, they don't get rid of old things that aren't functional or practical anymore. This goes for closets, shoes, books, knick-knacks, furnishings, etc.

I know TONS of people who have too much stuff, and largely because (a) somebody gave me this thing, or (b) it was a great deal I couldn't leave it in the store, or (c) it was my great-grandmothers, or (d) it just needs a little fixing up and it will be working again, or (e) I might need it some day.

All of these rationalizations should come out of your vocabulary if you have a small space, and if you like to live clutter free. Shops like the Salvation Army, Goodwill and Value Village will gladly accept the things which aren't suitable for your space anymore. In some communities, community organizations will even come to your door to pick up donations.

Additionally in a small space, it's difficult to find the right scale of furnishings. Even in a larger space, many rooms are small and putting in a big sofa with overstuffed cushions in a small seating area looks ridiculous and robs you of precious space.

In terms of colour, try and use a consistent light tone throughout. You can change up the hue of a colour, but a uniform colour scheme will add a sense of space to your dwelling. Punch it up with a few toss cushions or accessories that compliment your overall colour scheme.

Finally, mirrors are magical in small spaces. They will expand your living quarters visually and make it appear as if you have more room and light than you actually do. I've used them strategically in my own home.

Good luck,
Tracy

[UrbanPoet]

use shelving units that are practical. Simple rows with the unit being 6 feet tall should be sufficient. Itll effectively use space.

Beds with built in drawers, and taller dressers would work best.

[markreda]

The 2 Year Rule!

Chances are....
If you haven't used it or worn it in 2 years you probably won't use/wear it again.

I actually strech it out to 3 years.

[careener]

Ikea has alot of small room sized stuff. You may want to start there.