NG THE MOST OF

A PACES

ANOOP PARIKH

ANOOP PARIKH trained a s an interior dP\Iq tlt t, Inti A new approach to small
space living, incorporat-
went on to a career as a fa shion and lnt(lrlor~ \ lyll' t
ing up-to-the-minute
for magazines. H e was Cosmopolitan \ drt wollnu design ideas .
editor for several years, and now wril o~ 0 11 IIIP\Iylt
Practical advice on how
and design for a wide rang e of publica tion\
to plan , design and deco-
rate small spaces, from
city apartments to coun-
try hideaways.
Packed with ingenious
space saving ideas,
including foldaway
tables, concealed beds,
mirrored walls, and gal-
leried living areas .
Each chapter includes
checklists featuring
invaluable tips for deco-
rating on a tight budget .
Front jacket photograph by
Paul Ryan /International Interiors (Marilyn Phipp'>)
Back jacket photograph by
Nadia Mackenzie (Designer: David Benson-Bunch)
ISBN G-8478- 1801-2
l{ llZO LI INTERNATIONAL PUBLICATIONS, INC.
100 Pork Avenue South, N ew York, New York I 00 I 0 ,..
m
z
lll,ttlbutcd by St. Martin's Press
.' 9
l'tlllltd In Singapore
$18.95
$24.50 Ca nada
~7'
NG THE MOST OF MAKING THE MOST OF SMALL SPACES is the
essential guide to planning, enlarging, and decorat-
S PA C E S
A il~i~=
z
G)
ing small spaces. It provides answers and inspiration
for city dwellers and young people, cottagers and
-i
I suburbanites, for whom small living spaces ore a
m
necessary result of high real estate and rental costs,
~
0 or who simply want to better organize cluttered
~ rooms.
0
"T1 Author Anoop Parikh presents up-to-the-minute
design ideas including state of the art kitchen equip-
ment and storage solutions, hundreds of ingenious
space-saving ideas such as foldaway tables, con-
cealed beds, mirrored walls, and galleried living
areas, and gives decorating tips on color, pattern,
and texture, as well as cost-saving ideas fo r anyone
on a tight budget.
More than 80 fu ll-color photographs and four
case-study floor plans show a variety of small-space
styles, from chic bedrooms to minimal living rooms,
country style kitchens to colorful bathrooms, includ-
ing an entire chapter devoted to one-room living.
Throughout the book, chapter checklists help the
)>
z reader to pinpoint ideas for immediate reference.
0 MAKING THE MOST OF SMALL SPACES will
0
\J inspire even the most reca lcitrant small -space
~ dweller to transform their approach to home design
:::0
and create on environment that is compact but cosy,
A
I tiny but tasteful, and above a ll, a pleasure to live in.
\
51 9 9 5>
ANOOP PARIKH
ANOOP PARIKH
FOR MY FAMILY, AND DAVID

First published in the United States of America in 1994 by

RIZZOLIINTERNATIONAL PUBLICATIONS, INC.
300 Park Avenue South, New York, NY10010

First published in Great Britain in 1994 by

Conran Octopus Limited
CONTENTS
Project Editor Joanna Bradshaw
Art Editor Helen Lewis BASICS
Designer Christine Wood
7
Picture Research Jessica Walton
Production Mana Mylvaganam
Illustrator Sarah John
ONE-ROOM LIVING

21
Text copyright 1994 Anoop Parikh
Design and layout copyright
1994 Conran Octopus Limited KITCHENS

The right of Anoop Parikh to be identified as author of this work 41

has been granted to him in accordance with the Copyright

Designs and Patents Ad of 1988
LIVING ROOMS AND WORKSPACES
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced,
49
stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by
any means, electronic, electrostatic, magnetic tape, mechanical,
photocopying, recording or othervvise, without the prior
BEDROOMS AND BATHROOMS
permission in writing of the publisher.
63
LC No: 93-87090

ISBN 0-8478-1801-2 INDEX and ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Printed in Singapore by Star Standard Pte Ltd 78

fullctloa ef M FOOIII or tu1i ,,, ,

arrangellltlltS for exa111p1L f6li-CIIIdfl?'l ..

make It ll'Ptr larpr, t11rollll1. deftf -:;;.J

choice of flll'lllture.
PL ANNING FIRS T THINGS FIRS T C O O L A N D SI MPLE

If you have ever spent time in a beach

Draw up scale plans of your home
For the vast majority of people, small living spaces are interesting as someone pronouncing that "pink is always hut (opposite) or on a boat, you will
and decide whether any structural
the norm, the inevitable consequence of sky-high land fabulous in a south-facing room". But there is nothing know that small spaces have a charm all
alterations are appropriate.
values and a strong demand for individual living units. less fabulous than a room whose use is ill defined. Better of their own.
Are there any original features that
It is possible to create stylish small spaces, but it is not to decide in advance, for example, that you are going to Most of us would abandon any
you want to keep or replace, such
always easy to feel inspired by a room or apartment that combine the living room and bedroom, so that you can thought of decorating and using a room
as fireplaces, built-In cabinets or
is the size of your average broom closet. The hardest have a kitchen that is large enough to entertain in. Or, to of this size. However, it has taken only
plasterwork7
part is knowing where to begin. Ask yourself "What do I realize from the outset that there is no need for a sepa one or two interesting textures and a
Think about how much time and
really want?" Think about rate study because you are sentimental approach to furnishing to
money you have at your disposal.
how y o u r home fits i n t o much happier working on turn this seaside hut into a welcoming
Are you a keen or reluctant home
your lifestyle; if it helps, the kitchen table. retreat.
decorator?
make a checklist of each Take a c r i t i c a l look at A lack of space often prompts us to
Check the condition of walls, floors,
r o o m's main features to your present arrangements. come up with wonderfully creative
ceilings, and windows.
establish your priorities. Are you hanging on to bulky design solutions: A console table in this
Decide whether you want to empha
If your home is the place furniture simply because it sleekly furnished studio (left) doubles
size or minimize the view.
where you both live a n d was cheap and it is still in as a dressing table, and an etched glass
Work out at what time of the day
work, your n e e d s w i l l b e one piece? If you never eat screen lets light dance around the room,
each room gets the sun and for
different from those of breakfast, do you really need while maintaining a sense of enclosure
how long.
someone who uses theirs as a toaster? To edit the con in the living area.
Work out your space priorities by
a crash pad. Similarly, if you tents of your home costs An aerial view of a simply furnished
deciding which of the following are
live alone, you will have the nothing, and it may be all open-plan studio (previous page, left)
most Important to you: a work and
l u x u r y of only h a v i n g t o you need to create additional shows a successful combination of plain
hobbles space; a private refuge; all
please yourself. A couple o r a family will have further and more efficient living space in a small area. color and natural materials in a small
purpose family rooms; a space In
demands to make on a limited living area, so tailor your Decorating is not just about planning and organizing space.
which to entertain; separate rooms
plans accordingly. rooms, it is also about creating the right atmosphere by In a minimal interior (previous page,
for each occupant; or more than one
However small a living space, your first step should be making the best use of color, pattern, light, and texture. right), bold and simple storage units
bathroom.
to draw up scale plans of your home. This gives you a This is where other people's efforts come into their own. attached t.o the wall are both practical

useful map of the area, allows you to plan your decora Successful small spaces that have been carefully designed and decorative.

tive campaign, and helps to highlight any potential are the most potent source of inspiration for anyone

blackspots or awkward corners. wishing to plan their own home, so sift through maga

This all sounds deeply analytical, and nowhere near as zines and books for ideas to suit your individual needs.

B A SIC S 9
8 B A SIC S
 HIDDEN ASSETS
A G OOD USE OF
SPA CE A simple archway (right) frames the

view into a minimally-furnished

Place your furniture according to

sleeping area, while a sweep of

where it makes the most economical
drapery provides a dramatic and
and creative use of space.
space-efficient alternative to double
Do not automatically exclude large

doors. Archways, like screens, help to

items of furniture from a tiny space.
define and separate spaces. They can
An oversized, attractive piece can be
also add elegance to a room that has
an excellent focal point in a small,
less than perfect proportions.
enclosed room.
Architectural features are best kept
Consider using "enlarging devices"

simple in small spaces, as ornate

such as mirrors and monochrome
designs can easily overwhelm a room.
color schemes. A minimal approach
Besides, it is seldom possible to stand
to furniture and soft furnishings will
back and appreciate them.
also make a room seem larger.
Sleeping areas can be hidden from
In small houses, consider converting

view by placing them above eye level

the basement or attic, or adding
(left). The addition of a platform at one
onto the back of the building to
end of this high-ceilinged room effec
extend the living area.
tively creates two more rooms: a small
Th i n k about your storage require

bathroom below, and a cosy bedroom

ments and how best to incorporate
above. The framework supporting the
them into your overall plan. Do not
platform also incorporates plenty of
forget that even shallow recesses
useful built-in cabinets.
and awkward corners can be put to
In tight spaces, ladders conserve
good use. Fit them out with shelves
more space than staircases. As well as
to provide storage and display space.
being more compact, they are much
Why waste the space above your

cheaper, and can easily be stored in a

head? A narrow shelf at picture rail
corner when not in use. However, high
height can be used to display decora
level areas that are in constant use are
tive items or collections.
best reached by fixed stairs.

1 0 . B A SIC S
LET T HE SPACE SPEAK USING COLOR
with tongue-and-groove paneling to

echo the closet's original lining. This Daytime rooms look best painted in
A dramatic triple-height space makes it

difficult to believe that the total floor kind of paneling is especially suitable light, airy colors, to make them

area of this one-bedroom house (left) is for traditional bathrooms. Additional look bigger.

shelf space can be created by providing If you are lucky enough to have sun
only 540 square feet. On the first floor,

a narrow 4-inch ledge on top of the for much of the day, a color scheme
a folding wall provides useful screening
boarding. Wooden surrounds like this based on blue and green is a fresh
in the living area, where the kitchen

should always be sealed with several looking option.

space extends right under the stairs.

coats of yacht varnish after painting to If a room looks gray and dingy,
The second level houses the bathroom,

which receives daylight via a translu counteract the effects of water and perhaps because it faces north, use

steam. a warm color such as soft yellow, or

cent panel. The landing can be used as

a study area thanks to a built-in desk, a shot of lime green.

while the floor above contains a Night-time rooms are a good place

compact double bedroom, complete to try out strong, dark colors. They

with built-in closets. make a room seem more formal, but

To compensate for the lack of space, are better suited to the warm glow

high-quality finishes and fittings have of candles and electric light.

To "lower" a high ceiling, try

been used. In small homes, minor

elements, such as taps and handrails, painting it two or three shades

are much more visible, and therefore darker than the walls. To "raise" a

have more impact, so choose the best low ceiling, use a pale, cool color.

quality fittings you can afford. They Painting the end wall of a narrow

will make a big difference. room in a strong color will make it

The opposite is true of this bathroom appear wider and nearer.

(right) which was once a closet. A rich Color can be used to create

yellow wall, cosy and bright, is separate areas within a room. You

perfectly counterpointed by a frame of can define and anchor" the living

midnight-blue woodwork,the vivid area with a colorful rug or, to

colors helping to mask basic fittings make spaces flow smoothly into one

and less than perfect finishing. The tiny another, use similar intensities of

floor area provides just enough space color in adjoining areas.

for a traditional bath, which is boxed in

B A SIC S . 1 3
G E O METRIC G L A M O UR

Blocks of color and a square motif

provide a strong yet simple theme for

this 310 square foot second-floor

studio, while an elegantly curved wall

dispels the boxy feeling so often expe-

rienced in,small spaces.

The wall was designed to ensure

that the kitchen and bathroom (right)

occupied a tiny amount of floor space.

Much of the kitchen is hidden behind

sliding doors when not in use, and the

sm.all area that remains permanently on

show has been decorated to blend in

with its surroundings. Lighting is

curved wall stops well below the The blue ceiling brings the outside
provided by pivoting low-voltage
ceiling. This makes it less obtrusive, in, and provides a dramatic contrast to
halogen spots. They produce a whiter
and enables the top to be used for the white walls and neutral floor.
light than conventional bulbs, which
storage (right). As the platform gets Additionally, it ensures that the apart
makes them eminently suitable for
only occasional use, a folding step ment stands out from its neighbors
lighting large expanses of color.
ladder is used to gain access. when seen from the outside.
By placing the bathroom next to the
Built-in storage is provided by
kitchen, ugly runs of plumbing are kept
shelves hidden behind huge doors
to a minimum. Where there is no room
(above right). For lightness, these are
even for a shower tray, as here, it is a
made from artists' canvas stretched
good idea to fix the shower unit to the
--. over wooden frames.
wall and insert a drainage hole in the , ..

floor. Marble and mosaic tiles work

If In the living area (above left),

shutters provide a crisp alternative to

especially well, as they are decorative
draperies. A sheet trimmed at one end
as well as hardwearing. They are also a
to make a decorative pelmet softens
relatively cheap flooring solution for a
the mood in the sleeping area. It also
small area.
helps to screen an ugly view.
Unlike an ordinary partition wall, the

1 4 B A SIC S B A SIC S 15
LESS IS MORE

In this tiny one-bedroom apartment, a

lack of architectural detail has been

turned into a positive feature by the

adoption of a pared-down approach to

decoration. Two boxy rooms were

opened up to create one large living

area (right and opposite), leaving just

enough space for a double bedroom

(far right).

Modern chairs, abstract art, and

plain ceramics are a natural choice for

such a rectilinear space. The tiled floor Lighting is equally streamlined:

makes the room feel wider, while Background light is provided by low

blocks of bold color act as focal points. voltage fittings behind a wooden fin.

16 . B A SIC S
T HE L AYERED LOOK

A surprising number of distinct spaces

have been shoehorned into this apart

ment, thanks to the owner's ingenious

use of half-levels and steps.

The full height of the space can be

seen in the living area (left), with its

symmetrically-placed sofas and dining

furniture, all on castors. A desire for

symmetry also determined the position

of the kitchen, which lines up with the

entrance stairs. It is emphasized by a

pair of monumental steps, which double

up as kitchen drawers (right).

The drawers, together with most of

the woodwork, are colorwashed to

create a subtle striped effect that tones

with the fabric used throughout for

screening and soft furnishings. It also

raises" the low ceilings.

Elsewhere, the space is divided hori

zontally into several levels. The main

sleeping area was created by building a

platform over the stairs and galley. A

second bedroom and bath (center

right) have been slotted into one of the

rooms that leads off the main space, yourself on the lower bed in the narrow

while the area under the bed and the room (above). There is just enough

steps leading up to the bath have been room to clamber onto the floor on the

used to create extra storage. other side, and from here it is but a

If you were to climb the steps next short climb up the ladder into a

to the bath, you would suddenly find nautical-style box bed.

B AS I C S . 1 9
ONE
Ll
ALL IN ONE OPEN HOUSE

A change in level turns one room into

the most o f one o r two good design ideas. These can be several separate spaces in this bright

practical, such as a wall of cabinets that even includes studio apartment (right). Open stairs
1,....-
the kitchen sink, or decorative - practically every surface lead to a galleried sleeping and study

in the studio on page 20,for example, is covered in a rich area (left), and structural elements are

emerald green fabric, a wonderfully grand way of left exposed to create a simple,

excluding the outside world. stripped-back-to-basics feel. Much of

It also helps to restrict your color palette, perhaps to this room's charm derives from being

several closely related tones of the same color. You are able to see from one area to another.

less likely to tire of restful and neutral schemes, and it is Painting everything white gives the

very easy to introduce small amounts of a stronger or space an enviable freshness, but there

contrasting color as an accent. This could be in the form are plenty of small, and not-so-small,

of cushions, throws, or vases of flowers. patches of bright color for the eye to

While wall and floor surfaces should be tough alight upon.

enough to cope with around-the-clock use, they should Where there is a greater sense of

also provide a suitably plain backdrop for furniture, rugs, enclosure, as in a galleried studio

and pictures. (previous page, right), wood tones

In theory at least, life in a studio or a small apartment In addition, floors need to feel warm and comfort focus your attention on the architecture

has much to recommend it. Small spaces are cheap to able underfoot. and they should be easy to clean. and furniture. In another studio

buy or rent, heating bills are low, they take less time to However, your first task is to organize the space. The (previous page, left), rich colors and

clean, and, with a bit of careful thought, you can even room's shape will help you do this, especially if there are fabrics help to create a glamorous and

end up with a truly labor-saving home. changes of level, perhaps in the form of a gallery, and sophisticated mood.

Plenty of single people, couples, and even families fixed points of interest, such as windows or a fireplace.

live, sleep, eat, and entertain in just one room; in several The position of the kitchen may well be determined by

of the world's major cities, there is simply no other the location of the existing water supply, and the need

option. However, few would deny that it takes some to site extractor fans near an outside wall.

planning. And many are overwhelmed, if not thoroughly Even if you are starting from scratch, it is a good idea

defeated, by the challenge of creating a stylish, as well to incorporate changes of level in the design, because

as practical, small home. this is the best way to define each area in a room.

So how do you do it? You keep it simple, that's how. Alternatively, position large pieces of furniture so that

The best-looking studios are invariably those that make they create a sense of separation without blocking the

22 . ONE-ROOM L I V ING
view. Screens and arches are a more elegant way of

doing much the same thing.

The largest and most important pieces of furniture in

any studio are those that you sit and sleep on. In many

cases, of course, these are one and the same; most studio

dwellers opt for some form of sofa bed or foldaway. The

room's layout should make the switch from living room

to bedroom, and back again, as effortless as possible; this

means keeping the area in front of the sofa or folding

bed clear, and providing storage for bedlinen. If all this

sounds too much like hard work, some form of daybed

may well be the answer.

Whatever you choose to sleep on, make sure it is built

to provide adequate back support. Sofa beds made from

blocks of foam are not suitable for much more than

occasional use. Instead, look for a sofa bed mechanism

that has a slatted base and a pocket-sprung mattress. The

best types ensure that the mattress will fold without

exerting undue pressure at the point of the fold. Futons,

which contain layers of cotton wadding, are equally suit

able; in fact, many people prefer their solid feel, and they

are available in an increasing variety of designs.

The number and size of windows in a room will also

influence the layout. If you have a wonderful view, it

makes sense to position the furniture so that you can

enjoy it at all times. Even if the room does not benefit

from a view, windows are best left clear; this helps to

make the most of natural light, and makes closing the

draperies or blinds much easier. However, there are times

when you can't avoid placing furniture in front of the

windows. If this is the case, try to keep it as low and

unobtrusive as you possibly can.

L-S HAPED LIVIN G

Custom-built cooking, sleeping. dining,

and living areas slot into this L-shaped

room with enviable precision (left). One

branch of the "L" has been divided hor

izontally in two by a sleeping platform.

But it looks anything but cramped,

because your eye is swept up by the

oven and an ingenious sink (left and
lines of the built-in storage that runs
above). This has the advantage of being
from floor to ceiling. The shelves below
much less obtrusive than conventional
the sleeping platform are used for
units. However, serious cooks should
display, while the cabinets above help
remember that a miniature sink or a
to hide pillows and other bedlinen.
low-level oven, like these, can soon
Only the neatly rolled futon remains on
become an irritant.
permanent show.
In direct contrast to the dramatic
A platform can be hung on brackets,
shapes and hard surfaces used else
as here, or it can be cantilevered off
where, the living space has a simple,
the walls, or supported on columns.
restful feel. The whole area is raised
These veneered columns are more
slightly, and squashy cushions are
decorative than structural, however.
propped up against the walls to create
One forms part of the ladder up to the
comfortable, casual seating. The all
bed, and helps to disguise an ugly
white scheme is softened by a back
pillar; the other one is used as a wine
ground wash of blue light ploduced by
rack and coat closet.
fittings concealed in the columns. To
Extra chairs and accent lighting are
make reading easier, a pool of clear
hung on the wall as a neat storage
light is provided by a pendant fitting
solution. This leaves valuable table and
which also acts as a focal point.
floor space as clear as possible.
Clutter often jars in simply
In the kitchen area, steel framing
decorated rooms, so books are kept
and toughened glass have been used to
hidden, and dust-free, behind tailor
make a multipurpose yet sculptural
made shutter-style cabinet doors.
island unit, complete with microwave

ONE-ROOM L I V ING . 27
DIVIDIN G SPACE

A low wall neatly solves the problem of

making one room perform several

functions. The owners of this studio

badly needed to create more space in

the bathroom, which occupies the area

beyond th tinted glass door. But they

were reluctant to move the existing

wall, partly because their budget would

not allow it, but also because it would

have cut across the room's best

features- namely the run of full-length

widows and the gently vaulted ceiling.

The solution was to build a low wall

or screen to section off part of the

living room, and to hide the sink and

towels behind it. This created more

space in the bathroom, and made the

morning rush a little easier to handle.

The lines of the windows and ceiling

remain unbroken and the seating area

feels more welcoming.

The new addition was positioned to

allow for plenty of movement around

the bathroom door. It also follows the

line of the built-in closets, which helps

to integrate it into the existing layout

of the room.

28 ONE-ROOM L IV I N G . 29
 MAN AG IN G C LUTTER DISPL AY STORAGE

Mirrors and a pale, neutral color Find a space for favorite items and

scheme will make a room look bigger, keep them there. Objects of the

but they are much less effective if the same type, be they books, pictures,

place is untidy. Well-planned storage is or china, make more of an impact

-

"' a must in any small space, and some when gathered in one place. In

''"'
"
quantity, books also provide heat
! form of built-in unit could be the

y;:.,, answer. Tailored shelves and drawers and noise insulation.

\ , ,,
"
I -II

. I .,,..
,. J,

. I I '. ' make excellent use of a large alcove Storage can become a decorative

(left); they extend right across the feature in its own right. Hang light

space to include even the window chairs and cabinets on a wall, or off

recess. However, care has been taken a Shakerstyle peg rail. Or, store a

to ensure that the unit looks like a television or hifi in a redundant

piece of furniture. The shelves are fireplace.

encased in a frame, and the central Which is better, freestanding or

section made deeper to create a break- built-in shelving? Freestanding

front effect. This provides sufficient examples can be moved at a later

depth for the television, and lends the date, and are often attractive

unit greater charm. objects, but they may not fit a

There are, however, more casual space exactly.

ways of displaying collected treasures. Built-in shelves make the best use of

Massed pictures and marketfinds jostle space, especially in awkward corners

for space with rich textiles and antique and in the space above doors and

furniture in this Parisian apartment windows.

(right). At first glance, the space seems If the wall behind open shelves is

merely chaotic, but the owner's talent lined with mirror, it will make the

for creating interesting groups of objects placed on the shelves look

objects lends it a coherent unity. more impressive. A mirror will also

give the impression that the room

continues behind it.

Store delicate objects away from

kitchen grease and steam.

ONE-ROOM LIV I N G . 31
 CONCEA LED STORAGE

Try to find furniture that "disap Fit recesses such a s alcoves with

pears" when not in use but make adjustable shelves, hooks, and rails.

sure it is easy to operate. Built-in storage blends easily into its

Keep a large linen or log basket surroundings. Treat tailored units in

handy for instant tidy-ups when you the same way as adjacent walls to

have unexpected visitors. make them seem less prominent.

32 ONE-ROOM LIVING
B LUE BOX

There are times when lining furniture

up against the walls can make your

home look like a doctor's waiting room,

but in certain circumstances this

arrangement makes the best use of

space. In this boxy 215 square foot

studio, each wall is dominated by one

large item of furniture: namely

cabinets, a sofa bed, and a dining table

that seats ten people.

Smaller items have been chosen for

their lightness and flexibility. The low

table and rattan armchair can easily be

pushed out of the way when it is time

for bed. And the perforated metal

screen usefully hides kitchen mess

during dinner parties.

Fresh blue walls give the space an

ethereal quality, and provide a subtle

tint for white surfaces such as the

ceiling and curtains. They also contrast

well with the warm wood tones, and

the tough, polished surface of the

concrete floor and steel lockers. The

square lockers are particularly useful

for storing clothes, as each can be used

for different items. Their taller counter

parts, meanwhile, are fitted with extra

shelves to contain the hifi and books.

35

BEN C H M ARK
This wooden settle (right) serves
several purposes. It mixes colors and
textures in a sophisticated yet
welcoming way and, with the aid of a
thin mattress and scatter cushions, sits
three people for dinner in comfort.
Once the table and dining chairs
have been cleared away (the table top
lifts easily from the base), it reverts to
being an elegant, if slightly formal,
sofa. It might be difficult to relax
completely on such a rigid structure,
but a sofa like this is an option worth
considering if you entertain lots of
guests regularly. This solution also
works well in a lobby or hall.
Like many wooden objects, the
settle enriches the simple, warm color
scheme, and its clean lines let it blend
well with more contemporary pieces.
Splinters can sometimes be a problem
with old wooden furniture, but it is
possible to remove them with medium
grade sandpaper.
If you simply cannot face the
thought of making and unmaking the
bed twice a day, a cunningly disguised
divan bed (opposite) is a good alterna
tive. During the day, a simple cover in
a hardwearing fabric hides the bed
linen, while bolsters, pillows, and
36 . ONE-R OOM
MULTI-PURPOSE
scatter cushions transform i t into an FURNIT URE
extra-deep and inviting sofa. This
Sofas are not the only items of furni
arrangement suits casual and cluttered
ture that can be used as beds; it is
rooms best of all; it works less well in
also possible to buy upholstered
formal or minimal interiors.
footstools and ottomans containing
Since you are aiming to make life
sofa bed mechanisms. On some, the
easier, use fitted sheets and a quilt so
top lifts off to reveal a coffee table.
that the bed can be made instantly. If
Daybeds can be used for both seating
there are drawers in the base, use
and sleeping, and while they were
them to store the quilt and extra linen.
designed to be placed against a wall,
Also, turn the mattress regularly to
they work equally well when placed
even out wear and tear.
in the center of a room.
Sometimes, rooms resist your best
A stool or chair that turns into steps
efforts to keep theiTi tidy, and the
is a necessary piece of furniture if
clutter simply takes on a life of its
you have tall bookshelves or high
own. Here, a collection of pictures and
level storage.
other mementoes has spread to cover
Trunks and blanket chests can double
most of the walls and table surfaces,
up as storage spaces and low tables.
and the room feels darker and more
A squab cushion placed on top will
cramped than it once was. But the
also provide occasional seating.
richness of the overall effect more
The space in bay windows and other
than makes up for any loss of light and
projecting windows works hardest
space, and it gives the room character.
when fitted with cabinets lopped
Occasionally it pays to bend the rules.
with a cushioned seat.
Consider buying a dining table that
can be lowered to coffee-table
height.
Use trolleys and butler's trays that
double up as side tables.
37
L I V ING
SCREEN STARS

The simple act of unfolding a screen

bestows a sense of order in a tiny

studio (left), and lends greater

intimacy to a dining area (below).

Screens have many practical uses

including concealing clutter, but they

are also extremely useful for adding

drama to small or boxy rooms. Mirrors

open up and extend spaces. In a dining

area (right), objects placed in front of

the mirror strengthen the impression

of a room "beyond".
K ITCHENS
Most kitchens are subject to a wide

variety of uses, and the contemporary

kitchen, in addition to looking good and

being the place for regular food prepara

tion, may also serve as a laundry, an

office, and an entertainment area. If

there is somewhere to sit, the room will

quickly become the heart of your home.

However, if you never cook or eat at

home, a conventional kitchen is a waste

of space; a closet with a built-in

refrigerator, rangetop, and microwave

oven would make much more sense.

PL ANNING
A well-planned kitchen, whatever its size, is one in which

the food preparation areas, cooking facilities, and stor

age zones are all close at hand.

Professional planners begin by positioning the sink,

range, and refrigerator so that the distances between

them are kept to a minimum; these three points create

what is known as the working triangle. Worktop space

should be provided next to each point of the triangle, so

that there is always somewhere to put food and utensils

when you are cooking and preparing food.

The next step should be to analyze how you shop for,

prepare, and serve your food. If you shop infrequently

and seldom cook for more than one or two people, the

design of your kitchen should reflect this, with plenty of

space devoted to a pantry and a large freezer, and less

room given over to pans and dishes. If, on the other

hand, you entertain frequently and can shop every day,

you will need plenty of counterspace and storage for shoulder and hip height so as to avoid repeated bending

tableware and saucepans, and less in the way of long and stretching in a confined area.

term food storage. The insides of some built-in units make appalling use

As always, compromises will have to be made. You of space, but they can be improved by removing the

may have to do without a full range of appliances, so central shelf and replacing it with a set of baskets on

choose those that do the jobs you hate most. There may runners. If this is not possible, clip-on accessories, such as

not be room to store two sets of china, one for everyday racks for glasses, are a good alternative.

use and one for entertaining, so select a design that will As the worktop is the most accessible area in the

see you through every occasion. room, it should be home only to those items that are in

The subject of storage is often made needlessly com constant use, such as the coffee maker or knife blocks. It

plicated. The golden rule should be to store items near to should not be used for displaying decorative clutter

where they are most often used. In very small spaces, it is which can become extremely irritating if you need space

also a good idea to store as much as possible between for preparing an elaborate meal.

42 KITCHENS
HAN G IN G AROUN D STORAGE AND
DISPL AY
Open storage gives this galley kitchen

(left) a functional yet welcoming feel. In very tight spaces, MDF (medium

Although the owner's penchant for all density fiberboard) panels set in

things fishy creates a welcome touch of sliding door tracks can be used to

whimsy, the kitchen's greatest strength replace conventional cabinet doors.

is its layout; everything can be located, Alternatively, hide storage shelves

used, and returned to its proper place behind washable fabric drapes hung

with a minimum of fuss. on plastic-coated wire. Measure the

This area is also a thoroughfare, so width of the cabinet, and double the

fragile items are stored well back or figure to work out the amount of

high up to reduce the risk of being fabric needed.

knocked, and open shelves are made Short lengths of plastic-coated wire

more secure with the addition of thin can be fixed inside cabinet doors to

fabric rails. The whole area is painted a hold saucepan lids in place. This

dark color to disguise the fact that it makes them easier to find, and

consists of several units, and to help creates more space inside for larger

make a decorative feature of the items items.

displayed. Wall-mounted faucets leave Corner cabinets are often the worst

the sink area clear. culprits when it 'omes to wasted

In this 17 square foot kitchen (right), space, but they can be improved if

stainless steel, white tiling, and bright fitted with turntable baskets and

color provide an equally dramatic back shelves that swing out when the

drop. Hanging baskets and a suspended door is opened.

shelf are used to keep precious Open shelves for food and utensi Is

counterspace clear of clutter, while should be located away from steamy

delicate and heavy items are safely areas, such as the sink and range.

stored in pull-out cabinets or on low However, siting a plate rack near the

level shelves. sink can remove the need for a

draining board. A wall-mounted rack

fixed over the rangetop can be used

to warm plates and serving dishes.

KI T CHE NS 45
 Runs of narrow shelving in the space

between worktops and wall cabinets

are ideal for storing small cans and

packages.

Concealed fluorescent strips

beneath wall units keep work sur

faces shadow free; ceiling fittings

should be angled so that they clearly

illuminate the insides of wall

cabinets and shelves. Use shaded

spotlights for the best effect.

The door swing on large appliances

such as refrigerators and dish-

washers can create problems in tight

corners. Some manufacturers have

tried to overcome this by introduc-

ing pull-out models that operate

rather like large drawers.

T HIN K IN G S M A L L

Smaller-than-usual ovens are often

The ingenuity of kitchen designers
multi-purpose, incorporating a
knows no bounds. A rangetop, oven,
microwave, a conventional oven, and
and six-place-setting dishwasher have

a broiler. They can be built into wall

been shoehorned into an area no bigger
or base units, and would need only
than an ordinary stove (above). The
to be combined with a two-burner
table (left) simply glides into 'the wall
rangetop to cover all your cooking
when not in use. Sometimes, there is
options.
simply no room for a separate cooking
All major appliances are available
area, but there may be space for a
nowadays in compact or slimline
galley in a corridor (above left). If you
versions. However, their size limits
are able to accommodate a closet, you
their suitability for large families.
also have room for a kitchen-in-a-closet
To save space, invest in a waste
(opposite). Everything you are likely to
disposal unit and a trash compactor.
need is in it.

KITCHENS . 47
L IV IN R O OM
AND
W OR KS PACE S
Whether you are relaxing or working,

good seating and storage are the key to

successful living rooms. As well as being

the place where you spend most of your

waking hours, living rooms also act as a

buffer zone between the outside world

and the rest of your home, so they need

to be welcoming, flexible, and easy to

use. Do not be tempted to over- or

under-furnish this room.

Workspaces, on the other hand, can be

either cluttered or minimal, but they

must be designed with function in mind.

R 0 0 M F 0 R LIVING
Living rooms, whether large or small, are often put to When space is at a premium, it is well worth trying to

several uses, including watching television or listening to expand it. If there is an adjacent hall, how about

music. However, most of us eat, pursue hobbies, pay the replacing the wall between the two areas with decora

bills, and even work in here, too, so furnishings need to tive screens? This will make it feel less poky, while

be fairly hardwearing. And, as this is the most public part maintaining an all-important feeling of privacy. If the
'

of a home, where we entertain frequently, and some- room leads onto a terrace, try replacing an ordinary door

times accommodate guests for the night, it should also with French windows to make it feel bigger and brighter.

be comfortable and adaptable. Once you are happy with the shape and location of

Despite its many uses, the living room need not be the living room, it is time to sort out the contents. The

the biggest room in the house. For example, you may be most important of these is seating, as the room is pri

better off turning the main room into a combined marily a place for relaxation. While the number and

kitchen and general family area, and devoting a smaller shape of chairs is a matter of budget, taste, and personal

room to the hi-fi and television. Or, if you have more preference, a good starting point is to acquire at least

than one floor, why not site the living room on an upper one or two properly upholstered pieces. Two-seater sofas

level, where the availability of natural light and the view are a wiser choice than three-seaters, as they make it

from the window are likely to be much better? easier to experiment with the layout of the room.

50 . L I V ING R OOM S A ND WO R KS PA C E$
COL LECTIONS AWKWARD SPACES
Old dining chairs, floor cushions, and divans do not

W'"'rtver posslbJe, collections sholdd provide enough comfort and support for the average Pale yellow walls provide a neutral

back if you plan to sit in them for any length of time. backdrop for collected treasures, while

You are better off with wicker or director-style chairs, as maximizing the sense of space in this

these can also be used at the dining table. octagonal room whose diameter is only

You may find an upholstered footstool or ottoman 13'1> feet. A wicker sofa offers a lighter

useful, as it provides extra seating and storage, as well as alternative, both in visual and practical

a temporary home for newspapers and magazines. If terms, to traditional upholstery. And a

this, or any other kind of low table surface, is to be carefully positioned table lamp helps to

placed in front of a sofa or armchair, try to leave about light up the darkest corner of the room.

18 inches of legroom; any less will make the area Unusually shaped rooms have great

cramped and unwelcoming. charm, but they can be extremely

The dining table may have to double up as a desk difficult to furnish. The answer is to

and hobby area, so choose one that is stable and capable keep the walls plain and simple, and to

of withstanding regular knocks and spills. It should also draw the eye toward the center of the

make good use of space; a round table can be pushed room, by using inviting and colorful

into a corner when not in use, while rectangular trestle furnishings. Mirrors are a great help,

tables ideally suit hallways and narrow rooms. too; even an irregular room shape Is

Seating and storage should be combined wherever improved by a little reflected symmetry.

possible, but you will still need extra space for books,

compact discs, and the other detritus of modern living.

Freestanding storage can be used as a focal point or

space divider, and it has the advantage of being portable

when you move house. Built-in units, on the other hand,

make the best use of space, and they can be tailored to

suit your needs. However, they are also expensive, unless

you opt for simple forms of open shelving.

Lastly, keep an eye on decorative clutter, as it can all

too easily swamp a room. The secret is to organize it in

the form of displayed collections or themed groups and

to contain it in a limited area.

5 3
 CHARACTER P ARTS
G A L LERY LIVIN G

A careful choice of furnishings in a

A lowered ceiling and simple checked
living room is often all that is needed
furnishings create an air of cosy
to create the right mood. Here, a
seclusion in this comfortable living
cottage living room has been given a
room, while the gallery abbve provides
casual yet pulled-together look by
a touch of high drama.
using the same fabric in several color
Like all galleries, it acts as an
ways. All-over patterns such as this are
oversized shelf, perfect for housing
generally better suited to simple
overnight guests or temporarily
schemes. Informally-placed accessories
abandoned hobbies. A larger gallery
help to foster a mood of rustic calm.
might be used as a refuge or study.
Careful coordination is never the
Even where ceilings are not this high,
whole story, however: Successful
if may be possible to create a snug
rooms should also contain one or two
sleeping platform, with the space below
surprises. Here, a steeply vaulted and
it devoted to storage.
beamed ceiling contrasts dramatically
Galleries, like shelves, can be
with the cosy furnishings below; the
cantilevered off a wall, supported by .
striped effect makes the ceiling seem
beams and brackets, or suspended from
even higher, and gives the room added
the ceiling, as long as the loads are not
grandeur. And a patterned carpet
too great.
provides a pleasingly eccentric touch.

LIVING ROOM S AND WO R KS PA C ES . 55

 SC REENING
ORAN G E AID

Some form of screening behind a sofa

Simple decorative tricks are often the
is essential if it sits, as here, in the
most effective. Here, colorful furniture
middle of the room. But it does not
and a dramatic orange screen in a top
have to be permanent. Paneled
floor living room, focus attention on
screens, or even a table that is as
the lower half of the room. The screen
high and as wide as the sofa, would
draws theeye away from the low
work just as well.
ceiling and makes the room appear
Screens, whether movable or fixed,
more spacious, while the zingy color
should stop well short of the ceiling
scheme also helps to brighten up an
so that daylight can reach every
otherwise cool, dark room.
corner of the room, so as to prevent
The screen is made from a timber
a feeling of claustrophobia .
frame covered with plywood and its
In a living room or workspace, use a
shape both echoes the semi-circular
paneled screen to define the space.
window and allows as much daylight as
Around a dining table, a screen will
possible into the kltcnen. Set at an
create a sense of intimacy.
angle to the wall, the screen,p eates a
As an alternative to draperies, try
"dynamic", helping to bring the space
unfolding a screen in front of the
to life, while making the living area and
window at night. In an older house,
the kitchen feel more enclosed.
full length integral folding shutters

also are a good solution.

Lengths of fabric or blinds hung from

a ceiling make effective room

dividers, as they can be tied back

easily to open up the space. Use

plenty of fabric for a generous

effect, and make sure that the fabric

can be removed for cleaning.

56 57
EL.ECTRIC
CAN DLESTICK

A, simple candlestldt fitting provides

both task a.nd accent lighting In this

rustle living room (left). The shade

directs light downward to make reading

easier, and the pool of soft.llgllt It Cljfls

attracts the eye. When coupled With

lew-level baclcgrounJ ll9ht1ng. the

result Is wondwfully relaxlftg. Tile

LIG HTING
All living rooms, whatever their size, play host to a wide It therefore makes sense to invest in flexible fittings. Display lighting can emphasize specific

variety of activities, all with different lighting needs. Those with dimmer switches make it easy to alter the items (above left) as well as clraw

Moving around, holding conversations, and watching mood. Other designs have movable arms or shades, attention to architectural features.

television need only a low but safe level of background which allow you to bounce light off the walls or ceiling. White surfaces bounce daylight into

light; reading, writing, and hobbies are made easier by Position lights correctly: The middle of the room is a room to provide cool background

localized pools of task lighting; while collections of rarely the best place for a ceiling pendant fitting, as this lighting (above right), which feels calm

pictures should be highlighted. creates shadows in corners. To "move" the pendant and refreshing during the day. At night,

In addition, fittings need to be capable of creating without expensive rewiring, simply attach a longer length the atmosphere is warmed by recessed

several moods You may want them to add cheer on of cord. This will let you position it over a table, or close downlighters and a tall floor-standing

overcast days, or to create sparkling glamour for parties. to the wall. candle stick.

L I V ING R OOM S AN D WO R K SPAC E S . 59

 WORK IN G DAY

living rooms, kitchens, and bedrooms

:re the most obvious places to site

",.'
E+ wokspaces, but a stair landing (left) or

lob,by (right) will do just as well.

Anyone who plans to use their study

""'
regularly should also spend some time

selecting the right table and chair. The

latter should be reasonably compact

and portable, so that it can be used

elsewhere. And when you are seated, it

<should allow your feet to rest comfort-

ably on the floor, with your knees very

slightly lower than your hips.

The table or desktop should be

sufficiently high to allow your legs to

W O R K S PA C E S slip underneath. But it should still be

possible to rest your hands on the top,

We all need somewhere to store papers, bills, or an with your arms relaxed by your sides,

answering machine. Some of us can make do with a an<! your elbows bent at 90 degrees.

spare shelf or drawer, while others need much more SJrong, direct light, such as that
"

space, perhaps a separate room. However, the ideal for provided by Anglepoise lamps (far left),

most small-space dwellers is a table and chair in a is useful if you read or do close work

corner: a place to think, make decisions, and dream. for long periods of time. Otherwise, it

Your basic needs are a table or wall-mounted surface is best to use lights that shine sideways

that flaps down, plenty of shelves, and a folding chair. onto the working area.

But it always helps if the space can be closed off or If you use a personal computer, do

hidden in some way, so that work can be left o u t not place the screen in front of, or

overnight. This needn't involve expensive building work; facing, a light source or window, as this

folding screens can be used to hide the mess, or it may causes glare. Again, it is best to light

be possible to tidy away current work papers behind from above or from the side.

cabinet doors in an alcove.

60 L IVING ROOM S AND WO R K SPA C ES

B E DR O M S AND
B ATH O OM S
A bedroom is a private retreat, a place to

relax, shed outer layers, and dream. As

such, it can present complex planning

problems: As well as being the place

where you sleep and store your clothes,

it often doubles up as a study or second

living room. Sometimes an en-suite

bathroom may be needed to relieve

pressure on the rest of the house. Fear

not: All this, and more besides, is possi-

ble in a small bedroom. Size really does

not matter when you are creating and

decorating the room of your dreams.

W HITE MAG IC B E D R O O M S
The space-expanding properties of
Beds and chests of drawers are often the largest items in feel spacious; pale, soft colors and shades of white are
white are well-known, but many people
the house, so it is very easy for small bedrooms to seem the traditional choice in these circumstances, but an airy
tend not to create all-white interiors,
doubly cursed. But a lack of floor space can be an asset if yet comfortable atmosphere can also be created with
mainly because they have a reputation
you are aiming for a feeling of womb-like cosiness in the faded rich colors or warm, natural tones. The bedroom is
for being impractical. There is also an
bedroom, and nowadays it is easier than ever to buy a good place to experiment with large-scale patterns.
underlying fear that the results may
space-saving furniture. They create an air of cosy seclusion, but may be oppres
look too clinical.
The s i z e and position of the bed governs most sive in rooms that are also used during the day.
While it is true that all-white
schemes; it is, after all, the focal point of the room. But it Bedrooms call for a large amount of storage space in
schemes do not suit busy family rooms,
should not be chosen for its looks alone: The quality of which to house clothes and shoes, and many people
there is no reason why they should not
the mattress and base, if any, matter just as much. automatically opt to build fitted furniture.
be used elsewhere. This pretty bedroom
When planning the layout of a bedroom, you may The great advantage of this approach is that it makes
(ri!{ht) is decorated with several shades
well find that there is only one sensible place for the bed, great use of space, and creates a smart, streamlined
of white, ranging from pale putty on
against the wall. This can create a hemmed-in feeling and effect. But it is not a cheap alternative: All those acces
the floor to snowy gloss paintwork.
make the room look mean and cramped. But raising the sories, such as shoe racks and sock drawers, cost extra
Extra interest is provided by textural
bed, by siting it on a sleeping platform perhaps, makes a money. Units at the cheaper end of the market rarely fit
contrasts. A curvy upholstered chair is
big difference; it increases the amount of floor space, and exactly, and you may have to assemble them yourself.
silhouetted against a Venetian blind,
allows you to use the area below for storage. A cheaper, and often more satisfying, alternative is to
which in turn is softened by a loosely
Reducing the visual impact of the bed is also a good design and build your own storage; this works especially
draped pel met. like most of the fabric
idea in small rooms. The easiest way to do this is to use well in alcoves, and on the end walls of narrow rooms.
in the room, it can be removed easily
some kind of foldaway. Sofa beds are the most common, The entire surface can be covered with a tailor-made
for cleaning.
closely followed by futons. In addition, there are several combination of shelves and drawers. The end result can
Corner closets are unusual and
types of bed that will fold up and cleverly disappear into be covered with sliding panels or blinds; these take up
decorative, and they often seem less
closets during the daytime, among them the charmingly less space than ordinary closet doors and allow you a
intrusive in small bedrooms.
named Murphy bed. chance to experiment with color.
A low-level bed (previous page,
Alternatively, box beds can be built into a wall of cabi However, it is still worth including one or two free
left) helps to keep heads clear of the
nets for a neat, nautically-inspired look. Making a box bed standing pieces of furniture, such as a chest of drawers
dramatic roof in a galleried bedroom.
is a job for an experienced carpenter, but the end result or dressing table. Most of us like to move the furniture
In a tiny bathroom (previous page,
looks wonderfully warm and secure and is especially suit around once in a while, and a surface on which to
r.ight) a wall-mounted sink and mirror
able for children. d i s p l a y f a v o r i t e objec t s is a m u s t , e s p e c i a l l y in
put an awkward corner to good use.
C olor and decor play a large part in making bedrooms traditional schemes.

B ED R OOM S AND B ATH ROOM S . 65

6 4
BEDDI N G D O WN

You do not need to have lofty ceilings

in order to enjoy the extra space

created by raised beds. This studio

ceiling (above) is less than 1 0 feet high,

while the cabin (right) is on an even

smaller scale.

An air of other-worldly seclusion

fills this room (opposite), thanks to a

quirky use of polished metal panels and

rich fabrics.

66 . B ED R OO MS A ND B A TH ROO MS
MAG IC TRICKS STORAGE

Alcoves and recesses make good If there Is room at the foot of the

storage spaces as long as they are not bed, use a blanket box or ottoman

boxed in. Here (left), doors of any kind for storing out-of-seeson clothes and

would have looked clumsy, forming ugly bed-linen.

panels in the wall, and thereby jarring Bedside tables should Incorporate

with the room's elegant feel. storage wherever possible. The skirts

Draperies hung from a peg rail are an of a fabric-covered table (left) are

excellent way of screening alcoves, as capable of hiding an enormous

they give the wall a sense of unity, and amount of clutter. Small chests of

add a touch of softness to a crisp, drawers and filing cabinets are also

architectural scheme. Matching them to useful In bedroom settings.

the paintwork maintains the feeling of If floor space Is very tight, fix sturdy

simplicity and keeps their visual impact shelves or decorative brackets next

to a minimum. This soft, romantic and to the bed. They will look even

ethereal look is delightfully easy to better If your bedside lights are also

achieve, but it must be kept wall mounted. Remember to leave

scrupulously clean. enough room for moving the bed,

To make the most of natural light, a A few Items of clothing, such as hats

mirror is placed next to a window and shawls, will form 1 decorative

(right). If this is not possible, try display placed on a stand or on the

cutting and framing a mirror so that wall. A valet stand will help to keep

it echoes the shape of a window, and clothes off the floor, I S will a row of

hang it opposite to create a pleasing hooks hung discreetly belnd a door.

symmetry. Mirrors, like pictures, can be

grouped on a wall or table.

69
C LOT
HES STORAGE

Store rarely worn clothes elsewhere,

In an attic or landing closet perhaps,

then group the remaining Items In

your closet. accerdlng to type aad

111d dresses need 5 feet If

ltllllllll space, wbHe s111rts llld

Whld lf;re or drapes when Rot

ill\ ....

HUN G , STORED, AN D Q UARTERED

Open storage for clothes is often seen whole area by hanging a simple drape.

as an open invitation to dust, but it can A more sensible compromise might

make the most of limited space. be to mix open rails with drawers and

Recessed and builtin shelves such as boxes, as in this unit (above). Two sizes

these (left) often make a pleasing of willow basket keep clutter safely

pattern, and can therefore be left hidden from view. The only items left on

exposed. If you could never aspire to show are those which have a pleasing

this level of tidyness, then cover the shape or color.

B ED R OOM S A ND B A TH R OOM S . 71
 BOXIN G C LEVER UNDER- BED
STORAGE
Tongue-and-groove paneling adds a

neat, cottage-like charm to an attic Most divan bed bases have storage

bedroom (left below), but it also serves facilities, usually in the form of

several practical purposes. Imperfect drawers or cabinets with sliding

walls and ugly pipes are concealed; doors. Other types require you to lift

there is greater insulation against the mattress up at one end to gain

drafts and wind noise; and the bed has access to storage underneath. The

been incorporated into the overall former can be difficult to use in a

design - always a good idea in confined area, or if you have bedside

awkward spaces. tables. The latter are best for storing

In a roof-top bedroom (left), a simi rarely-used items.

lar approach helps to turn an ordinary You may be better off buying a

mattress into a multi-purpose piece of slatted or sprung bed frame and

furniture. The area underneath the bed organizing the area underneath with

is divided into three cupboards to lidded boxes or suitcases. Color

make for easy storage of smaller items, coding and labels make it easier to

while the lower part of the wall behind keep track of the contents.

is boxed-in to create a home for bulkier Very low beds, such as futons, are

items, such as bedlinen. With a few not so useful when it comes to

cushions propped against the cupboard providing extra storage space, but

doors, the bed becomes a sofa. And the there are bases that incorporate

narrow shelf created along the top of shallow drawers or space for storage

the cupboard acts as a bedside table. boxes.

If carpentry is not within your range Beds that incorporate storage can be

of skills, a similar effect can be heavy, so take steps to ensure that

achieved by resting the mattress on a there is minimum damage to the

platform made from modular storage carpet or floor. It may help to fit the

boxes (right). Other low items of furniture with castors. Drill holes in

furniture such as architectural plan the base to allow air to circulate

chests or metal filing cabinets could under the mattress.

also be used as bed supports.

7 2 . B ED R OOM S AND B ATH ROOM S 7 3

 C HROME W HITE
B AT H R O O M S
A row of aluminum-fronted cabinets

(below and right) keeps bathroom

Swimming pool-sized baths set in acres of pink marble
clutter in its place. Walls tiled in a
exist only in the pages of romantic fiction, and given that
similar color create a streamlined
they must take a small army of servants to maintain, it is
look. A small wall-mounted radiator
probably just as well. Those of us who live in the real
slots neatly under the sink, and helps
world generally have to make do with a great deal less
dry towels on a swing-out rail.
space; bathrooms in some apartments can be as small as

24 square feet.

A miniscule bathroom can also be transformed into a

luxurious retreat though. However, it does help if you

are starting from scratch; only then can you choose the

color of fittings and site them to make the best use of

space. Pulling off the same feat with inherited fittings is

more difficult (but by no means impossible). It just takes

planning and a willingness to be inventive with color.

Drawing up a scale plan is vital for the design of a

new bathroom. If you are unsure of your drafting skills,

use the planning guide from a manufacturer's brochure.

It c o nsists of sq uared paper and cut-out cardboard

Even if there is no room for a bath,
shapes representing the toilet, showers, and baths. After
there is always space for a shower. All
marking out your bathroom on paper, use the shapes to
you need is a tiled wall, a showerhead,
determine the layout.
and a hole in the floor (see page 14).
Although it is possible to move inherited fittings
Generally, however, shower trays are
around, the job takes skill and patience, and it is rarely
best sited in a corner (left), or built
the cheapest option. Instead, build cabinets under the
into a row of cabinets. Rigid enclosures
bath and sink. These will take up more space, but
look neater, and there is less risk of
provide extra storage.
spraying the rest of the room, but
A fresh coat of paint makes a huge difference to all
shower curtains allow you to maneuver
bathrooms (make sure that it is steam resistant, though).
in tight corners.
You can also distract the eye with murals and other dec

orative effects on the walls and ceiling.

7 4 . B ED R OOM S AND B ATH ROOM S

 RE F LECTED G LORY
PAIN TED MIN IATURE

A large mirror can work wonders in a

Every spare inch of this tiny bathroom
small bathroom. As well as stretching
is covered with painted murals and is a
the space, and turning small groups of
brilliant success. Most people would be
objects into impressive collections, it
nervous about making a strong decora
can be used by people of all ages. But
tive statement In such a small space,
there ar.e limits to the amount of mirror
but It actually makes perfect sense.
a bathroom can take: Full-frontal
After all, if the alternative is bare walls
reflections are not welcomed by all.
that close In on you, why not do some
Replacing some of the glass in a
thing that is really worth looking at?
window with mirrors will give you more
Fantasy decorative themes work well
privacy, but it greatly reduces the
in bathrooms as they are occupied for a
amount of daylight entering the room.
relatively brief period of time. And
Better to screen the window with
even the simplest of efforts make more
blinds, as here. Alternatively, fix glass
of an Impact In a small space.
shelves across the window, and use the
However, it Is Important that richly
space to display decorative objects or
decorated walls are clearly lit. Even in
steam-loving plants. Make sure that
such a small space, a single overhead
shelves can be removed for cleaning. If
pendant fitting would leave much of
you plan to store everyday items such
the room In shadow, as dark colors
as toiletries here, check that they are
absorb light. Here, the answer was to
within easy reach.
wash the walls with light from ceiling

mounted spots. White bathroom fittings

help to bounce it into the corners.

B ED R OOM S AND B ATH R OOM S . 77

76
I N D E X fluorescent, 47 bathrooms, 75 sideboards, 43 u
halogen, 7 4 kitchens, 42 sinks, chopping boards, 46 under-bed storage, 7 3
kitchens, 4 7 plate racks, 45 sinks, 7 5
Page numbers in italic refer to the c director-style chairs, 5 3 furniture:
living rooms, 59, 59 platforms, sleeping, 7 7, 7 8, 24, 26, sleeping areas, 7 7 v
illustrations candle sticks, electric, 58 dishwashers, 47, 47 bedrooms, 6 5
one-room living, 27 54, 65, 66, 66, 72 sleeping platforms, 7 1 , 7 8, 24, 26,
canopies, bed, 66 display lighting, 59 living rooms, 50-3 Venetian blinds, 33, 64
task lighting, 58, 59 postcards, 52 54, 6 5 , 66, 66, 72
A ceilings, 'lowering' and 'raising', 1 3 display storage, 3 1, 36, 52 multi-purpose, 37 ventilation, bathrooms, 7 5
workspaces, 6 1 printer's typecases, 5 2 sliding doors, 45
alcoves, storage, 3 2 , 6 5 , 68 chairs, 5 0 - 3 , 6 1 divan beds, 36, 5 3 , 7 3 one-room living, 22-5, 35
linen baskets, 3 2 sofa beds, 25, 37, 6 5 w
Anglepoise lamps, 60 chests, 37 doors, sliding, 45 storage, 32
living rooms, 27, 49-59, 49-59 Q sofas, 50, 5 7
appliances, kitchen, 46 chests of drawers, 43, 65, 69 downlighters, 59 futons, 2 5 , 26, 65, 73 walls, one-room living, 2 2
lobbies, 6 7 quilts, 3 6 space, using, 1 0
archways, 7 7, 2 5 chopping boards, 46 draining boards, 45 washing machines, 4 6
lockers, 35 splinters, wooden furniture, 3 6
attics, 1 0, 7 0 closets: draperies: G waste disposal units, 4 7
log baskets, 32 R spotlights, 47 , 76 white color schemes, 64
bathrooms, 74, 75 cupboards, 45 gadgets, 46
radiators, 75 steps, 3 7 wicker chairs, 53
B bedrooms, 65, 66, 70 screening alcoves, 69 galleries, 22, 22, 54
M rangetop, 4 1 , 47, 4 7 storage:
basements, 1 0 corner, 45, 5 2 , 64 showers, 7 5 galley kitchens, 44, 47 windows:
magnetic racks, 46 refrigerators, 4 7 bathrooms, 74, 75 bathrooms, 77
baskets, turntables, 45 kitchens, 42, 42, 44 drawers, under-bed, 36, 7 3 garment rack, 70, 7 7
mattresses, 2 5 , 36, 65, 66, 72 roof gardens, 1 0 bedrooms, 6 5 , 68, 69
baskets, 3 2 , 42, 45, 7 7 mirrored doors, 38 dresses, 7 0 bay windows, 37
microwave ovens, 46, 47 room dividers, 5 7 clothes, 70-1
bathrooms, 73, 28, 63, 63, 74-7, sliding doors, 4 5 dressing tables, 6 5 H French windows, 50
mirrors, 1 0, 3 1 , 3 7, 33, 38, 39, 53, see also screens kitchens, 42, 42, 44, 45 one-room living, 2 5
74-7 clothes: halls, 50
69, 7 5 , 77 living rooms, 53
baths, 74 displaying, 69 E halogen lighting, 7 4 screens, 5 7
monochrome color schemes, 1 0 s one-room living, 3 1 -2, 3 7
bay windows, 37 storage, 70-1 electricity, bathrooms, 7 5 headboards, 66 wooden furniture, 3 6
multi-purpose furniture, 3 7 saucepan lids, 45 under-bed, 73
bedlinen, 25, 36, 72 coats, 70 'enlarging devices', 1 0 heating, bathrooms, 75 workspaces, 4 9 , 49, 58, 60, 60- 1 .
murals, bathrooms, 7 6 scale plans, 8, 9, 74 workspaces, 60
bedrooms, 63-73, 63-73 coffee tables, 37 equipment, kitchen, 46 hooks, clothes, 69 worktops, 42
Murphy beds, 6 5 screens, 9 , 25, 35, 38, 38, 50, 56, see also cupboards
beds, 63, 65, 66 collections, displaying, 3 1 , 36, 5 2 extensions, 1 0
57, 60 stoves, 46
box beds, 6 5 color, 1 3 extractor fans, 22 K
0 settles, 36 studies see workspaces
daybeds, 2 5 , 3 7 bedrooms, 65 kitchens, 22, 2 5 , 26-7, 4 1 - 7 , 4 7 -7
offices, 49 shelving: studios, 8, 2 2 , 2 5 , 28, 33
divans, 3 6 , 53, 73 living rooms, 49 knives, 46
one-room living, 2 1 -38, 2 7 -39 across windows, 31, 77 sunken living areas, 24
sleeping platforms, 7 1 , 7 8, 24, monochrome schemes, 1 0 fabric, room dividers, 5 7
ottomans, 53, 69 bedrooms, 69
26, 54, 6 5 , 66, 66, 72 one-room living, 22 faucets, 7 5 L
ovens, 47, 47 clothes, 7 7 T
sofa beds, 2 5 , 6 5 computers, 61 filing cabinets, 6 9 , 7 2 L-shaped rooms, 2 6
displaying collections, 5 2 tables, 9, 3 7 , 47, 53, 57, 60, 6 1 , 69
under-bed storage, 7 3 corner closets, 45, 5 2 , 64 floors: ladders, 7 7 , 7 9 , 2 6
p kitchens, 45, 47 task lighting, 58, 59
bedside tables, 69 cushions, 37, 53 living rooms, 5 7 landings, 6 0 , 7 0
paneling, tongue-and-groove, 72 living rooms, 5 7 tiles, wall, 75
blanket boxes, 3 7 , 69 one-room living, 22 lighting:
parquet flooring, 5 7 at picture rail height, 1 0 toilets, 74, 7 5
blenders, 46 D fluorescent lighting, 4 7 background, 7 6
pendant lighting, 5 9 shirts, 7 0 tongue-and-groove paneling, 72
blinds, 33, 5 7 , 64, 6 5 , 77 daybeds, 2 5 , 3 7 focal points, 1 0, 24, 2 5 , 66 bathrooms, 75, 76
photographs, 52 shoe racks, 65, 7 0 trash compactors, 47
books, 3 1 desks, 58, 6 1 foldaway beds, 65 bedside, 69
pictures, 5 9 showers, 7 4 , 74, 7 5 trolleys, 3 7
box beds, 6 5 dimmer switches, 5 9 footstools, 53 displays, 59
plan chests, 72 shutters, 7 5, 5 7 trunks, 3 7
butcher's blocks, 43 dining chairs, 5 3 freezers, 46 downlighters, 59
planning, 8-9 side tables, 3 7
butler's trays, 3 7 dining tables, 3 7 , 5 3 , 5 7 French windows, 50 electric candlesticks, 58

7 8 . IND E X I ND E X . 79
P U B L I S H E R ' S A C K N O W L E D G M E N T S

We wou l d l i ke to t h a n k the fol lowi n g p hotog r a p h e rs a n d 52-53 IPC Magazines Ltd/Robert Harding Syndication; 54 R . C .
organizations for their permission t o reproduce t h e photographs Stradtmann/Camera Press; 55 IPC Magazines Ltd/Robert Harding
in this book: S y n d i ca t i o n ; 5 6 - 5 7 P a u l R y a n / I n te r n a t i o n a l I n t e r i o rs ;
5 8 C h ri sti a n S a rramon; 59 left Lars H a l l en ; 59 right P a u l
2 Mark Darley/Esto; 4-5 Simon Wheeler/E I I e Decoration; 6-7 Ryan/J . B . V i s u a l Press; 60 left O r n e l l a S a n cassan i/Ab itare;
Casa de Marie C la i re /P Planells; 8 Tom Miller/EIIe Decoration; 60 right Yves Du ronsoy; 61 Omelia Sancassani/Abitare; 62 R.C.
9 Scott/ M a ri e C i a i re M a i s o n ; 1 0 J e a n - P a u l B o n h o m m et; Stradtmann/Camera Press; 63 Trevor Richards; 66 above Aldo
11 Marie Claire Maison/Tosi/Ardouin; 12 Richard BryanVArcaid; Ballo; 66 below Bo AppeltoffVCamera Press; 67 Fritz von der
13 IPC Magazines Ltd/Robert Harding Syndication; 1 8- 1 9 Aldo S c h u l e n b u rg (J u l i ette M o l e ) ; 68 C a m e ra Press; 69 P a u l
Ballo; 20-2 1 David Parmiter (The London Studio of designer Ryan/International Interiors 7 1 Fritz v o n d e r S c h u l en b u rg
Martin Bass); 21 right Mark Darley/Esto; 22-23 Michel Fernin/Le (Richard Mudditt); 72 above Paul Ryan/J . B . Visual Press; 72 Dia
Journal de Ia Maison; 24-25 Mark Darley/Esto; 26-27 Graham Press; 73 Rene Stoeltie; 74 IPC Magazines Ltd/Robert Harding
Henderson/E lizabeth Whiting & Associates; 28-29 R i c h a rd Syndication; 76 Jeremy Cockayne/Arcaid; 7 7 David Parmiter
BryanVArc a i d ; 30 Paul Ryan/I nternational Interiors; 3 1 Yves (The London Studio of designer Martin Bass).

D u ronsoy; 3 2 - 3 Trevor R i c h a rd s ; 36 C a sa de M a r i e
Claire/Stylograph/P. Planells; 3 7 Rene Stoeltie; 38 above David
Parmiter (The London Sudio of designer Martin Bass); 38 below The following photographs were speci a l ly taken for C o n ra n

I a n t h e R u t h v e n ( N i c o l a W i n g ate - p r i ntroom a n d s c r e e n Octopus b y Nadia MacKenzie:

designer); 39 M a r k Darley/Esto; 41 David Parmiter (The London Courtesy of David Benson-Bunch 1 , 3, 1 4-5
Stu dio of designer Martin Bass); 42 Reiner B l u n c k/Abitare; Cou rtesy of Gary Kang 7, 1 4- 1 5, 40-4 1 , 45, 50, 5 1 , 64-65, 75
43 Simon Upton/Elizabeth Whiting & Associates; 44 Fritz von der Courtesy of Nato Welton and Dawn Williamson 34-34
Schulenburg (Juliette Mole); 46 Dia Press; 47 above left Abitare;
47 a b o ve right R os i e re s - C o n s e i l s ; 47 below O r n e l l a by Henry Bourne:

Sancassani/Abitare; 48-49 Scott Frances!Esto; 4 9 Henry Bourne; Courtesy of Johnson Naylor Design 1 6- 1 7, 70-71

A U T H O R ' S A C K N O W L E D G M E N T S

A large chunk of the five years I spent at British Cosmopolitan Benson-Bunch, Wendy G reenbury, Brian Johnson, Garry Kang,

magazine were taken up with finding small spaces such as these. Nato Welton, Dawn Williamson and all the other homeowners
My brief from editors Marcelle d' Argy Smith, Linda Kelsey and featured here.
Rachel S hattock was to search out i n s p i r i n g a nd accessible Thanks to Fiona Lindsay at Limelight Management for doing the
homes, a n d w h i le it was rarely easy, their enthusiasm for my deal. And, for turning recce snaps and occasionally incoherent

efforts made it all worthwhile. They too were inspiring and acces ramblings into a marketable product, many, many thanks to Jo

sible, and I owe them more than thanks. Bradshaw, Helen Lewis, Jess Walton, C hristine Wood and all at
For opening their doors so willingly, and proving that it is possible Conran Octopus. No control freak cum. author could wish for a
to live stylishly i n s m a l l spaces, thanks to Martin Bass, David better team .

80 . A C K N O W L ED G M ENTS