Often people will feel intimidated to decorate a small apartment. Just because your space is small, it doesn’t mean it won’t look just as fabulous or even better than a large space.

Three things to keep in mind: less is more, colour has a major impact and storage is necessary.

Keep furniture and accessories to a minimum and if possible try to get furniture that also provides storage. Occasional chairs with either no arms or thin arms also make a space seem larger.

We’ve all heard our mothers tell us (and it is true) darker colours make a room look smaller. Opt for lighter colours for walls and try to add as much lighting as possible.

Add more storage solutions to your closets or add extra shelving. Put all small items in colourful and trendy boxes to keep the appearance of clutter to a minimum.

By keeping these three things in mind you’ll have an amazing space your friends will be jealous of.

Images: iStock Photo (June 22, 2010)

One of the most important things to remember when staging a bedroom is to make it as cozy as possible. Plush comforters and ample pillows will do wonders.

I noticed this bedroom online and just had to write about it. The thing I like the best isn’t the decor, it’s the wall. You’ll notice it’s wood paneling that’s been painted white, this is an excellent way to freshen up a room. I would have liked to see some artwork above the bed with the softened blues similar to the pillows.

Images: iStock Photo (June 19, 2010)

Choosing the perfect treatments for you windows can be difficult at times. I have a few personal favourite choices but today I would like to write about the Roman style. There are many different textures available for roman shades including woven weaves, metals, sheer fabrics, natural fabrics and fabrics with prints, stripes, and textures. You can choose from a corded system, cordless system or the top down / bottom up system (this is where the top is controllable as well as the bottom). You can even split a large window in half with two blinds on one headrail.

Pricing can depend on the size and quality of the shade. They are more expensive than a typical curtain system but they look fabulous. You can go high quality with a blind specialty store or you can source prices at your local hardware store.

Image: iStock Photo (May 21, 2010)

Imagine a classy hotel like the Ritz-Carlton or a Holland America Line cruise, this is where you will find the formal style. As with the traditional style, classic, symmetry and balance are key.

Furniture arrangement in a formal room is always on a straight axis and is finely crafted, tailored with unique details, crisp pleats and straight to gently curved lines. The rooms themselves will boast highly polished woods, glistening mirrors, luxurious fabrics and highly polished brass window and door hardware, high ceilings, large and tall windows, and architectural features such as a large fireplace mantle or beautifully paneled walls. Lighting usually includes crystal chandeliers or wall sconces.

Accessories are arranged in balanced symmetry and exhibit imported Oriental rugs, lush floral arrangements, plants, original framed prints, leather bound books and antique vases, china, glassware and silverware. In dining rooms, elegant tablecloths or attractive fabric place mats are included in the table setting. Classic solid colours, floral, plaids and stripes are found on luxurious silk and velvet fabrics. Tailored window treatments include roman shades, pleated panels, loosely draped swags trimmed with tassels and fringe. Traditional neutrals, deep luxurious shades, or soft pastels are common colour palettes, with the ceiling often a soothing white. Wall designs may include floral or strong geometric patterns.

References: About.com: Interior Decorating (Apr 6, 2010),
HGTV. (2004). Sensible Chic Smart Style on Any Budget (First Edition). Des Moins, Iowa: Meredith Publishing Group

Images: iStock Photo (Apr 6, 2010)