While this month’s BC Home + Garden Show, February 21st to 25th at BC Place Stadium, will feature design ideas for home and rooms of every shape and size, one main stage speaker in particular, Canada’s DIY queen Denise Wild, will be sharing her best tips and tricks for small spaces in particular. Here, she gives us an exclusive preview into some of her top tiny hacks (be sure to read to the end to find out how you could win a jam-packed BC Home + Garden prize pack)! —Noa Nichol
Hi Denise! What does "small space design" mean, in a nutshell?
Small space design is more than just making a small space look good. It’s creating the illusion that your space (no matter how big or small) is larger than it really is.
What are the top principles to keep in mind when designing/decorating/furnishing a small space?
Because you’ve got limited space, you want to look for pieces that are multi-functional. Also focus on maximizing your vertical space. Build, design, and store vertically, and incorporate furniture pieces that leave your floors clear and uncluttered to really open up the room. To make your space feel bigger than it is, decorate using light colours—they’ll reflect light and make the room feel more spacious. Select light paint colours with cool undertones for your walls, which create the illusion of more space by making walls appear farther away than they really are. Decorate with soft textures and simple patterns, and incorporate glass and mirrored surfaces into your space to help create the illusion of spaciousness.
What are your top two or three apartment hacks?
Invest in multi-purpose furniture pieces like an ottoman that can also function as a coffee table, blanket storage, and even extra seating for guests. Next, consider custom cabinetry, whether it’s shelving, closets, or entertainment units. You’ll add storage while maximizing your space. And, finally, stock your apartment with baskets and containers. They’re great for storage and they stack easily (so you’re making the most of that vertical space).
And your top space-saving tricks?
Hang pocket shoe organizers behind your doors, and fill each compartment with goodies. You’ll keep organized while saving space. In a bathroom, you can store beauty products, tools, and accessories, and in a kid’s bedroom, they’ll have quick access to clothing, toys, and crafts. In the kitchen, store cleaning or cooking supplies, and at the front closet, store accessories, keys, and incoming mail. Also, make use of the space under your bed with a selection of storage boxes. Look for decorative varieties that accentuate your decor while keeping seasonal clothing and extra bedding out of sight.
How is DIY conducive to small space design/decor specifically?
Since DIY projects are all about customization, they’re perfect for small spaces. As the maker or DIY-er, you’ve got all the power, so you can choose items, accessories, and materials to fit the space you’re working with.
Your favourite DIY projects specific to small spaces?
I love creating storage wherever possible and breathing new life into unexpected things. I attached a colouring-book-inspired tabletop on an old TV stand to create a work space for my three-year-old that now has built-in storage underneath. I also flipped an old bookcase on its back, added legs, and turned it into a toy cubby. If you’re looking for a quick project that’ll dress up your space while helping you get organized, turn to cork. Create a custom cork board by adding store-bought rolled cork to an ornate, oversized frame or a rustic barn board cut to the size of your work space. Pin inspiration images to create your own mood board, use it as a family messaging centre, or display costume jewellery or your daughter’s hair accessories. The possibilities are endless!
Win! A BC Home + Garden Show Prize Pack!
We have a winner! Congratulations Janet W. of Vancouver!
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