5 tips for decorating your small living space

Photos and story by Nicholas Ferguson

Design enthusiast Corley Bowen has a unique gift for mixing diverse pieces to exquisite effect. Located in the Santa Fe Art District, this design was inspired by the challenge of living in a small space. In talking about small space design, Corley says “small spaces are less wasteful, more cost effective and they inspire creativity.” Here are 5 ways you can create an eclectic space of your own.

 1. Showcase what you love 

A diverse collection of fedora hats, mixed with vintage jewelry and art from a local gallery can be utilized to create impactful wall décor. A room will begin to feel unique when you selectively display personal items. When you are feeling like you need to make a change to a space, you can try rotating out these pieces to gain a fresh perspective on the space.

 2. Create a balance between modern & ornate 

If you fill a space with only ornate objects, you may find yourself living in a room that resembles a flea market. Balance these ornate items by devoting some space for something modern. Corley has created this look by adding the two mid-mod sofas that provide a stable modern concept to the room.

 3. Fewer pieces make a bigger statement 

Choose a few pieces that make an impact to the space, and minimize items that are just being used to fill the space. An eclectic design can still feel deliberate if you are selective in the home décor you are displaying. Too many items in one room and you will start to look like an episode of Hoarders.

 4. Go boldly where no designer has gone before 

Don’t be afraid to combine various styles, blend pieces throughout the house, and pick bold colors or materials. Corley used her bold creativity to reupholster a vintage Barcelona chair, combine materials to create a built murphy bed, and even repurposed a vintage Bordeaux wine jug as a drop pendant light. Eclectic design offers you a chance to create a look that no one can imitate.

 5. Create a focal point 

This can take the design from fun to fabulous! The focal point in the room should make you stop in your tracks and immediately take notice. Since our eyes generally will follow the lines in a room, the furniture and activity in a room will usually revolve around the focal point. This can be a fabulous view of the fireplace, or a beautiful piece of art. Creating a great focal point can also assist you with taking the attention away from less favorable features in the space.