5 Tiny Spaces That Give Us Serious Decorating Inspiration

Clever and affordable ways to add style—and increase available floor space—from the book Tiny Homes.

By Country Living

Photo: © Randy Mayor

Peg Rail

Peg rails originated in the living spaces of the Shaker community. The handcrafted railing often bordered an entire room at shoulder level for easy storage of chairs, baskets and the like. Today it's a stylish, streamlined way to wrangle clutter in foyers, mudrooms or hallways.

Photo: © Mali Azima

Unexpected Headboard

Pretty as they may be, burly headboards can zap square-footage—fast. For a slimmer profile but just as much style, anchor a bed with a hanging quilt or tapestry. Other savvy options: wallpaper panels, trompe l'oeil designs, flags and maps.

Photo: © Victoria Pearson

Barn Doors

Whether used on cabinetry, as shown here, or between adjoining rooms, this country icon isn't just super charming; it's also super functional. Why? Tract-hinged doors don't require the wide radius of their traditional counterparts, making them ideal for tight spaces or narrow hallways. Use a salvaged door or coat a new one with chalkboard paint to make an even smarter statement.

Photo: © Lisa Romerein

Layered Rugs

Layer rugs. And then layer some more. A wide-open floorplan is an efficient setup for a tiny home. But it can make rug placement tricky—and expensive! For an alternative to a single sprawling floor covering, try overlapping flatweave indoor/outdoor rugs. There are no fewer than 10 in this inviting living room.

Acrylic Accents

This crystal-clear, plastic-like material will streamline a small room by eliminating visual clutter. And don't stop at barstools: Acrylic coffee tables, consoles, trays and drawer pulls have the same effect.

Published 10/03/2018