Small Space, Big Ideas

The Living Room

• Max out vertical details. Amy's elaborate window valance, Baroque-framed mirror, and '50s Italian glass chandelier create a real sense of grandeur. They also draw the eye up, making the ceiling feel much higher than its actual eight feet, two inches.
  
• Don't sacrifice comfort. For her six-foot-tall client, designer Lauren "felt committed to having real-size furniture." But Lauren and her partner, Alexandra, limited themselves to three bold (and practical) pieces. The custom 84-inch sofa folds out into a bed, and the two chairs spin around, allowing for flexible conversation areas at parties.