If you’ve been following me on Instagram, I’m sure you know Spencer and I purchased our first home this past year! The whole experience of searching, buying, moving and decorating has been an absolute rollercoaster, but we’ve loved every minute of it. Okay, I’VE LOVED every minute of it. Spencer might say different…despite me catching him watching HGTV alone a time or two!

If you watch my IG stories regularly it will come as no surprise that I love a good home DIY project, even if it doesn’t always turn out quite as planned (or as seen on pinterest). This made receiving a collaboration request from the Edmonton Fall Home Show all the more sweeter. I love how owning a home and having a space to make my own has opened up so many doors to my creativity.

Recently I had the opportunity to sit down with the lovely Jennifer from Turquoise Chair, an interior design firm in Edmonton, AB to chat all things design, small spaces and upcoming projects! If there is one thing I love about living in #YEG, it’s the creative community! I love having any chance to meet insta-friends IRL who are passionate in the pursuit of their craft. Not only is it always a great conversation, but it leaves me feeling so inspired!

Even though I now have a space to call my own, it’s important to note that it’s not very big and it doesn’t have the best storage options on the main floor. Despite living in a tiny loft prior to this, we still haven’t mastered the art of ‘no clutter.’ Now that we’ve moved, I’m more motivated to be innovative in the ways that we decorate. since we’ll be living here for awhile! Recently I’ve hit a few roadblocks on how to make the smaller spaces more stylish and functional. Thankfully, Jennifer shared some “big” Inspo with me that I can’t wait to pass on to you.

INTRODUCING 3 TIPS TO CONQUERING SMALL SPACES!

1. Minimalism is Mandatory
There has been quite a bit of chatter on the net around minimalism as a sort of spirituality, but that is not where I’m going with this. Being a minimalist with respect to my home means prioritizing physical possessions at the bottom of the totem pole. This is tough for me (because I love stuff!), but is exactly why it is my first tip to conquer a small space. What I have found to be most important is seeking pieces with multiple functions or are easily movable. So as Jen reminded me, keep it simple. Don’t clutter your home with more storage solutions. Purge first. Minimal furniture is always nice too. If you’re like me, IKEA is where it’s at.! Budget friendly, with clean and modern lines.

2. Think Different
No, this isn’t an iPhone ad. Don’t be afraid to do interesting things in your space that make sense for you! Just keep practicality and longevity in mind. Think pull out storage bed and look up for space! You’ll be surprised what you can build to add more storage above you! Cute boxes are everything. Jennifer reminded me that finding cool, thoughtful and personal pieces can make all the difference. She suggested taking a look through an antique store or thrifting to find pieces that make the space interesting! If you’re in Edmonton, I recommend checking out FIND or the Old Strathcona Antique Mall. Every small addition will become a part of the art in your home, and tell your unique story.

3. Colour Changes Everything
White walls keep everything bright and open. And before you ask for white paint recommendations, Jen spilled the tea on one of her favourites: Standard White by Cloverdale Paint (CA025). Lighter paint colours will give the illusion of a bigger space. However, there is nothing wrong with adding a little drama to a room with a bold colour choice! You can do this by experimenting with wallpaper or a pop of colour in the bedroom. These features can really draw the eye in. Another pro tip is colour blocking, which Jennifer introduced me to. I had no idea what it was, but after looking through Pinterest, I’m absolutely convinced it’s a design element I’ll have to add to our downstairs bathroom!

Thank you Jen for taking the time to meet with, share these tips and encourage me to be a little more innovative in my spaces! No need for fear, it’s just a space. We can always change it up! You can check out Turquoise Chair‘s Small Space, Big Living 600sq/ft feature at The Edmonton Fall Home Show featuring sleek designs with multi-purpose furniture – you’ll be sure to walk away charmed and inspired with tons of design inspiration and space-saving ideas. Or even better, follow her on the ol’ gram!

I hope to see you there! In the meantime, do you have any tips for small spaces? I’d love for you to share them below!