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Small spaces are great to indulge your style

Small spaces can be fun to decorate, but can also be daunting because of their limited scale. When challenged with the design of a small entry hall, vestibule or powder room, most people shrug their shoulders and wonder where to start.

Some are stumped because of the size, and others find it hard to navigate through an unconventional architectural feature such as slanted ceilings or an inconvenient, off-center window. Yet it is sometimes these stamp-sized spaces that offer the biggest design punch.

Small spaces do have their tricks. Really think about the placement of items and make sure they work.

There is only so much you can do with a small space. You're going to need to consolidate and use storage wisely in order to be effective. Make sure your furniture is multifunctional. This ensures that you have space for many activities. For example, a futon can double as a sofa and a bed, and a storage chest as a cocktail table.

The goal should be to expand your apartment visually so that you maximize open space, minimize clutter and decorate strategically for the greatest impact. In addition, try mirroring a wall - this will visually expand your room. If your budget doesn't allow for an entire mirrored wall, opt for a collection of framed mirrors.

A somewhat offbeat color can be perfect for a small space. Add depth to a small room by painting one wall a deep, rich color like green or brown and painting the other walls a paler color.

Go big. Include some overscale items like a chandelier for that WOW effect, or hang a large piece of art on one wall to add personality.

A monochromatic color scheme can help a space seem larger. Keeping all the furniture the same color pushes the furniture to the background.

Glass partitions for walls or doors help a small space feel bigger and lighter. You could also divide your space on a whim by hanging drapery panels from rods on the ceiling, allowing you to create a room within a room. Sheer fabrics or woven, lace-like fabrics are lovely room dividers.

Empty space under beds, tables and chairs, as well as overhead space in closets, are perfect for storage.

Don't be afraid to shelve things on up to the sky. Shelves are helpful for organization and can also be part of the decoration or design of the space.

Small spaces should be just as stylish as any other room in your home. There should be no shortage of drama or elegance when designing small spaces.

Minimalism can be yet another way to decorate small spaces. One or two beautiful pieces and basta!

Because the spaces are small, you can indulge in some more expensive materials because you will only need a very small amount. There are the places to go all out and set the tone for the rest of your home.

• Joseph Pubillones is the owner of Joseph Pubillones Interiors, an award-winning interior design firm based in Palm Beach, Florida.

© 2015, Creators.com

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