Home Gallery: Euro Flat

Take a lesson from the Europeans who have mastered the art of living large in tight quarters

Photography by Linea Press

White Out
An all-white palette always feels open, airy and fashionable.

Tip:
Layer white-on-white textures to create visual interest. Keep a few hits of black or grey for contrast.

Small-Space Solution: Play Up the Assets

• Make the most of an awkward layout with a few designer tricks.

• Minimize furniture and choose low-profile tables and sofas.

• Stick to one colour scheme for the whole place.

• Use mirrors in different sizes and shapes at key points around the room to make your space feel bigger.

Kitchen Cool

• Choose a single-bowl sink over a double and gain extra counter space.
  
  
• Layer sheets of clear glass over drywall instead of adding a tiled backsplash to keep things light.
  
  
• Skip window coverings and let in the natural light.
  
  
• Use open shelves and don’t fill every wall with closed cabinets. This will lend a sense of depth beyond your cupboards.

Half Circle

• Cut a round table surface in half and fit it to the inside of a windowsill with a single chrome leg for support.

• Opt for pedestal-leg stools and tables. Fewer legs mean less visual clutter.

• Include a table that can double as a second work surface.

It’s an Illusion
A glass-topped desk takes up very little visual space. Pair high-gloss white floors with white walls and a small room will instantly feel bigger.

Small-Space Solution: Sweet & Lowdown

• Place the bed away from the walls but close to the window so you can skip the headboard. Choose a bed that sits close to the floor to free up space at eye level.

• Skip the side tables and use the floor for mags and books.

• Install hanging lamps next to the bed to keep the floor clear and use a large standing lamp with a flat base for overhead lighting.

• Keep shoes in low, wall-mounted cabinets in a row along the wall. Choose barely there roller blinds instead of drapes.