Moving to Seattle means smaller apartments and higher rent. Sure, renters get a fitness center, rooftop herb garden, and basement wine cooler but that’s only to compensate for shoving us into a tuna can. From the moment I saw the size of my room, I knew it would be a battle. I’d be lying if I said the lack of closet space didn’t keep me up one night.
Phase 1: The room began as white walls and a futon. At this point, I could not even imagine fitting my bed, desk, and dresser into a 10×16’ room.
Phase 2: Finally my bed arrived! At this point, I had all my previous bedding and decor so the room started to feel like my own. When moving to a new and unfamiliar place, I realized the importance of feeling “at home.” The room looked good, but nothing more. Previously, my room had soft, pastel decor. But now, I wanted an extra punch of design. I envisioned the room giving me energy, clarity, and relaxation.
Phase 3: I wanted my room to exude vibrancy and style. Small spaces hold the ability to make a bold statement and even the tiniest of details can come to life.
A key part decorating in limited space is choosing a focal point. A focal point could be a large headboard, trendy throw pillows, or bold bedding. Choosing one focal point is important because a small room can become easily cluttered with too much decor. Make only one decorative statement and then build around it. I chose to make my back wall the focal point of my room.
I recently became infatuated with temporary wallpaper. After endless online searches, I purchased Devine Color ZigZag Wallpaper from Target. I purchased one roll for $25.99!
Applying the Wallpaper: The wallpaper is basically a giant sticker, apply slowly! I would suggest having someone help you, but it can be done by one person. The wallpaper covers about 24 square feet.
My second goal was to create a faux window drape. I purchased approximated 5 yards of fabric from JoAnns for $24. This silky floral fabric is even more beautiful in person and gave me the pop of color I wanted.
Applying the Curtain: I used nails to apply the curtain. Begin by choosing two points where the fabric is anchored, mine are in the top corners. After that, drape and pin where necessary.
I chose to apply the wallpaper and curtain to the ceiling, to appear that the window is much higher. This extension of the window makes the wall look taller and thus, the room appear larger. I applied the temporary wallpaper only where it is seen.
I only purchased the fabric and wallpaper for my room revamp which totaled to $49.99!
I love the print mix between the floral and chevron
Phase 4: Organization
Closet: To organize my clothing, I stored all summer apparel under my bed. Next, I implemented drawers, an over the door hanger, and folded my jeans on the shoe rack. Disclaimer: My shoes are in drawers in the hall closet.
*The easiest way to keep your clothes smelling fresh is to keep an open box of dryer sheets in your closet.
Desk: Having a small room and bathroom means one piece of furniture needs to work as multiple pieces. The Vittsjo Laptop Table from Ikea is the perfect vanity, desk, and t.v stand.
Picture Collage: Being in a small space means there is less room to hang decor. With a plan to keep the side walls free of distractions, I chose to display my photos all together in a large picture frame. This method allowed me to display all my favorite pictures without cluttering up my walls.
After a few weeks of settling in, I absolutely love coming home to my room. My room is a reflection of who I am and gives me a place to think, rest, and create. People, if I can compress my life into a tiny room then anyone can – plus the view isn’t too bad here either.
Beautifully done, I love it!