Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/35164
live at home Small Space, Big Style When design student (and BRAVA intern) Stephanie Carnes set out to design her downtown apartment, she didn’t let renting get in the way of creating a place to call home. “I’m always looking for new ways to make better use of small spaces and turn old things into new,” she says. With mid-century modern furnishings and sleek styling, she was able to transform a one-size-fi ts-all rental into a sophisticated space using ideas that work for the smallest apartment or the biggest home. Create Unique Displays The biggest décor damper is having too much stuff! When looking to add style in a small space, turn your favorite pieces or often- used items into artful displays— then hide the rest in drawers or stylish storage boxes. Bright and Balanced If lighting is what you lack, choose an oversized mirror to refl ect natural light and create a space that feels brighter and larger. Using fl oor-to-ceiling drap- ery along a wall softens the space while adding charm and balance to a room with off-centered windows. Find Furniture That Fits In a small room with multiple functions, choose furniture that fi ts. A shallow bookshelf turns piles of books into a display while a small ottoman doubles as a coffee table, making enough room to ease in for a good read or get to work. Add Color With Accessories Light walls don’t have to be boring. Create a tranquil room with muted hues by surrounding yourself with simple treasures such as books, fresh fl owers, colorful accessories and fabrics. 22 BRAVA Magazine June 2011 Photos by David King (top left) and Brittney Scharine (right) Styling and photos by Stephanie Carnes