Condos in Calgary are a popular investment for those looking to rent out their properties on a short-term basis. They range from beachfront vacation homes, to high-rises in big cities. Condos are attractive investments because they offer many advantages, such as lower purchase prices compared to larger properties. However, condos have a major problem: a lack in space.
You’ve found the right place if you’re tired of the small space in your condo, and you want to maximize it without sacrificing style. Our local interior designers have some great ideas for decorating your Calgary condo that will save you space.
Small Calgary Condo Decorating Tips: How to Maximize Space in a Calgary Condo
1. Select a Light, Neutral Color Scheme
creating an illusion of space is a simple process that begins with choosing the right colors for your walls and furniture.
Light, neutral shades — such as white, beige or light gray — and soft pastels are the best choices for large furniture and walls in your Calgary condo. White cabinets in the kitchen can be combined with a beige couch in the living area, or a cream fluffy comforter for the bedroom. Add small pops of color to the decor by using accessories and decor.
2. Vertical Space Saving Solutions
Although the layout of your condo may not provide much space for moving furniture “out”, that doesn’t stop you from moving “up!”. Vertical space is important in a small apartment. Not only will vertical pieces make the room appear bigger, they will also maximize storage.
Vertical space-saving ideas include floating shelves in bedrooms, tall bookcases that reach the ceiling, and cabinets mounted on the wall above the toilet in bathrooms. You can stack appliances like washer-dryer sets in a cabinet for laundry and use tall and slim appliances like refrigerators and microwaves to maximize your kitchen space.
3. Include Multifunctional Furniture Pieces
Selecting multifunctional pieces, in addition to tall, thin furniture, is a great way to save room in a small apartment.
Consider a lift-top table with storage in the living room or bedroom, a couch which can be turned into a bed for more people to sleep, an ottoman with storage in the bedroom or the living room or a loft-style bed with space underneath for a desk or dresser.
4. Increase Natural Light Sources
Condos usually have only a few small windows, as they share walls with adjacent units. It is important to maximize the natural light that comes from the few windows available in your condo. Interior designers use natural light to make smaller spaces seem larger, especially in sunny places like Calgary.
Consider using light, gauzy window coverings instead of heavy, dark drapes and shades. This will allow sunlight to pass through the windows, eliminating the need for artificial illumination. Sheer curtains provide privacy without limiting your condo’s natural light sources.
5. Reflective mirrors can add decorative depth to your walls
What is the secret of interior decorators to make small spaces seem larger? Mirrors!
Mirrors are reflective surfaces that can be strategically placed opposite windows to create an illusion of space. Hang a large, reflective mirror above a bed or sofa as a statement or make a collage of mirrors and artwork. A mirrored end table, coffee table or dresser can make your Calgary bedroom or living room appear bigger.
6. Open up your floor plan
It may not be possible to remove existing walls from your Calgary condo. However, an open-concept layout instead of “closing” rooms using bulky furniture can help you to gain more space in a cramped condo.
A subtle way to create a floor plan with an open concept is to use the same flooring throughout your condo, and define rooms using rugs or furniture instead. The living room, for example, can be clearly separated from the dining and kitchen space by a thin couch and armchair placed around a sleek table and a patterned carpet underneath. No walls are required!
7. Choose Furniture Made of Natural Materials
Decorating a Calgary condo using natural materials will highlight the natural beauty of the state. Many natural furniture items are durable and sustainable.
Consider using fabrics such as cotton or linen on your sofas, bedspreads and window treatments. You can also decorate with wood furniture, like pine, cypress or bamboo. Natural materials are often neutral in color, which can make a small condominium appear bigger.
8. Use coastal decor and art to enhance your home
No matter the size of your condominium, you can let your creativity show by adding beautiful furnishings and sophisticated artwork to the design. Decor items can include indoor plants, decorative pillows and nautical or ocean-inspired accents. You will choose the decorative pieces based on your desired look and feel for your Calgary condo.
This list of modern Calgary Interior Design Ideas has been curated by a team of Calgary Decorators to give you some decorating ideas for your Calgary condo!
Leave a reply