Photo: Julian Wass

Elevate lights. "Table lamps would have required furniture that we didn't have space for," Arbour points out, so the couple mounted bubble-like fixtures that appear to float above their heads.

Put beds to work. Looking for more storage? Don't forget the head of the bed. Cernuschi built a hollow headboard with cubbies and an easy-to-use, lift-up top, and constructed a matching mattress frame to boot. The nifty additions eliminate the need for side tables or a linen closet.

Prioritize comfort. Thanks to their ingenious setup, Arbour and Cernuschi were able to indulge in a king-size bed.