Living in a small house or apartment often means finding smart solutions that make the most of every square foot. From furniture choices to colour palettes and lighting, thoughtful design can make even the coziest spaces feel open and inviting. In this edition of Ask Brian, interior designer Brian Gluckstein shares his small space design tips to help you maximize storage, improve flow, and add style to every corner of your home.

Storage and Entryway Solutions

What are your storage tips for a small entrance?

I like to use a console table with drawers to keep small items like keys and gloves tucked away but still within easy reach. If space allows, add a bench underneath—perfect for putting on shoes and providing hidden storage with baskets or bins. A slim runner rug will also help define the entry while adding warmth.

What if I don’t have a linen closet?

I recommend storing bed linens in each bedroom’s closet for convenience. In the bathroom, double towel bars, wall-mounted shelves, or even a compact bathroom vanity with extra drawers can free up much-needed space. It’s also worth editing down your old linens so you’re only keeping what you truly use.

Furniture for Small Spaces

What type of coffee table works in a small space?

I usually suggest a lighter, more open style. Nesting tables are particularly useful because you can pull them out when you need more surface area and tuck them away when you don’t.

Can I use a sectional or chaise in a small living room?

Absolutely—sectionals can be incredibly practical for small spaces. The key is to choose one with scaled-down proportions and streamlined arms so it doesn’t overpower the room.

What are alternatives to a bulky dresser?

Storage beds are one of my favourite small space design tips. They often hold more than a dresser and work well for storing off-season clothing, bedding, and towels.

Colour, Drapery, and Wall Treatments

What colours work best in a small home?

Light, neutral tones tend to make spaces feel larger, but consistency is the real secret. Using the same palette throughout the home creates better flow and a sense of openness.

In a small living room with shutters, will drapes make the room look smaller?

No. In fact, drapery can add softness and height when hung correctly. I suggest full-length drapery panels in a colour similar to the walls so they blend seamlessly, and mounting the drapery hardware high above the window to create the illusion of taller ceilings.

Can wallpaper work in a small space?

Yes—wallpaper can add personality and depth. I often recommend a subtle textured-look pattern for a single feature wall, which adds interest without overwhelming the room.

Lighting and Ambience

What kind of lighting works best in a small room?

Layered lighting is essential. Use a mix of overhead fixtures, sconces, and table lamps to create a warm, balanced glow. In a compact space, wall sconces free up table surfaces and make the room feel less cluttered. Adjustable lighting helps adapt the mood from day to night.

Can lighting help a small space feel larger?

Definitely. One of my go-to small space design tips is using mirrors to reflect both natural and artificial light. Placing a mirror opposite a window or light source instantly brightens and visually expands the room.

Work-From-Home and Multi-Use Spaces

How can I make the most of a small office for two people?

Position desks at opposite ends of the room so you’re back-to-back. This reduces distraction and gives each person their own work zone. Leggy, lighter desks keep the room feeling open, and a shared shelving unit in the centre can store office essentials for both.

How can I create a sound barrier in a townhome for a quieter work-from-home space?

Reducing noise is all about adding materials that absorb sound. A plush area rug, lined drapery panels, and a solid door will all help dampen noise. You could also consider a cork wall painted to match the rest of the room. It not only improves acoustics but also doubles as a pinboard for notes and inspiration.

What should I do if I don’t have a separate playroom for the kids?

Opt for furniture with built-in storage so toys can be quickly put away. Cabinets, dressers, and even ottomans with hidden compartments keep things organized and help the room function for both play and everyday living.

With the right approach, small homes can be just as comfortable and stylish as larger ones. These small space design tips from Brian Gluckstein show how strategic choices in lighting, drapery, furniture, and finishes can make a big impact. Whether you’re planning a full refresh or just a few updates, thoughtful design will help you get the most from every inch of your home. Have more small space questions? Follow @glucksteinhome to submit yours for the next Ask Brian feature.

Photography by A Plus (1) and Stacey Brandford (2, 3)