Featured image from our interview with Brandy Joy Smith by Michelle Nash.

The Best Couches for Small Spaces

I’ve rounded up a variety of sofas that fit into every category you may be prioritizing. Are you ready to splurge? Save? Need a sleeper sofa? I’ve got you covered. The most important factor across the board with these couches is that they are all available in a smaller size, so you won’t have to worry about them being too large for your space. All of these sofas sit between about 60” and 80”, which means they comfortably seat two people—three if you’re in a pinch. Ready to dive in? Read on for all the deets!

Our top picks

1. Best Overall: Lido Sofa, Albany Park, $1244 
2. Best Budget: Oliver Sofa, West Elm, $699
3. Best Splurge: Gather Deep Leather Apartment Sofa, Crate and Barrel, $3,999
4. Best Sleeper: The MCM Sofa Bed, Benchmade Modern, $6,410
5. Best Slipcover: PB Comfort Roll Slipcover Sofa, Pottery Barn

1. Best Overall: Lido Sofa, Albany Park

Why We Love It: I love this little sofa. I have one in my home office and when I’m not working from my desk, I’m curled up on this couch. It’s the perfect size for a small space, it’s cozy and the stain-resistant basketweave is super easy to clean. Delivery and assemby was also a breeze! In short, I’m obsessed. 

Pros:

• Soft and comfortable
• Easy to clean
• Ideal size for a small living room or home office

Keep in mind: 

• This sofa requires two people to assemble

Specs: 

• Dimensions: 75″W x 32″H x 37.5″D
• Upholstery materials: Boucle, velvet, vegan leather, and stain-resistant basket weave
• Number of seats: 3  

Lido Sofa

$1,244 (reg. $1,509) at Albany Park

2. Best Budget: Oliver Sofa, West Elm

Why We Love It: The best couches for small spaces should be high quality, stylish, and comfortable—but adding budget-friendly is like a cherry on top of a sundae. West Elm delivers all four of these with the Oliver sofa. At 72” across, this is one of the best couches for small spaces, especially studio apartments. 

Pros:

• Under $1K
• Deep seated with optimal support
• Ideal for studios and small apartments

Keep in mind: 

• This is a firm couch. Skip it if you prefer a softer, plush feel!
• Only three fabric and color options are available

Specs: 

• Dimensions: 72″ W x 32″ D x 30″ H
• Upholstery materials: Chenille, twill and yarn dyed linen weave
• Number of seats: 2

Oliver Sofa

$699 at West Elm

3. Best Splurge: Gather Deep Leather Apartment Sofa, Crate and Barrel

Why We Love It: If you’re going to splurge, you might as well go for a deep-seated, ultra-plush leather sofa. This one from Crate and Barrel ticks all the boxes—it’s sized for small space living, made from high-quality leather, and comes with extra plush cushions. The deep seat is perfect for putting your feet up and curling up with a good book, too.

Pros:

• Compact and luxurious
• Cozy deep seating

Cons:

• One of the more expensive options

Keep in mind: 

• Slightly modern look might not be everyone’s style

Specs: 

• Dimensions: 77″W x 26″H x 43″D
• Upholstery materials: Leather
• Number of seats: 2

Gather Deep Leather Apartment Sofa

$3,999 at Crate and Barrel

4. Best Sleeper: The MCM Sofa Bed, Benchmade Modern

Why We Love It: The best couches for small spaces should absolutely include sofa bed options. You can still have guests even if you live in a tiny apartment! This cozy sofa bed from Benchmade Modern is highly customizable with lots of upholstery options, which is a huge plus. It’s small but mighty, as it pulls out into a queen-sized bed.

Pros:

• Wide range of fabrics
• Down alternative cushions available
• Cozy pull out bed

Keep in mind: 

• These sofas are hand-built and take four weeks to deliver

Specs: 

• Dimensions: 72″W x 40″D x 37″H
• Upholstery materials: Velvet, leather, performance weave
• Number of seats: 2

MCM Sofa Bed

$6,410 (reg. $7,541) at Benchmade Modern

5. Best Slipcover: PB Comfort Roll Slipcover Sofa, Pottery Barn

Why We Love It: If you want a small-space sofa that still feels plush and oversized, the PB comfort roll slipcover sofa is the couch for you. The generous proportions come in a compact package, so you can still enjoy a classic roll arm, a soft seat and the classic charm of a slipcover sofa, even in an apartment. This one looks a bit like the sofas in Nancy Meyer’s film Father of the Bride, don’t you think?

Pros:

• Deep seat and plush cushions. This sofa is made for comfort!
• Tons of fabric and color options
• Small space sizes range from 63” – 82”

Keep in mind: 

• Most fabric options deliver in 5+ weeks

Specs: 

• Dimensions: 76″ W x 38.5″ D x 37″ H
• Upholstery materials: Basketweave, boucle, everyday suede, linen, velvet, twill, chenille, plain weave, and pattern
• Number of seats: 2

PB Comfort Roll Slipcover Sofa

$2,399 (reg. $2,999) at Pottery Barn

6. Best Modular: Modular Performance 2-Seater Sectional, Anabei

Why We Love It: Finding a comfortable and compact modular sofa that works well for apartment living can be a bit of a challenge. Modular sofas are generally on the larger side, but this sectional by Anabei is one of the best couches for small spaces, for sure. This sofa includes machine washable covers, making clean up easier than ever. Since each piece is modular, you can easily switch up your layout whenever you want to make a change.

Pros:

• Machine washable, spill-resistant, and pet-friendly
• Each piece is modular, so you can rearrange your layout easily
• Covers are removable and interchangeable

Keep in mind: 

• The arms on this sofa are very thin
• Estimated time to ship is early September

Specs: 

• Dimensions: 68.5” W x 68.5” D x 36” H
• Upholstery materials: Plush weave, blended weave, heirloom velvet, luxury velvet, knit boucle, 

Number of seats: 2

Modular Performance 2-Seater Sectional

$1,294 (reg. $2,157) at Anabei

7. Most Comfortable: Sloan Sofa, Interior Define

Why We Love It: Interior Define’s Sloan sofa has so many options for comfort, it had to take the cake for the comfiest small-space sofa. You can upgrade the cushions for an extra soft seat, and you can opt for a deeper seat as well. On top of that, it’s available in both 75” and 79”—both fantastic options for small-space living. 

Pros:

• Truly customizable! Standard and deep seating is available, as well as different cushion fills. 
• Tons of fabric options
• Available in both 75” and 79”

Keep in mind: 

• There’s a $249 delivery fee

Specs: 

• Dimensions: 75″W x 35″H x 36″D
• Upholstery materials: Chenille, classic weave, brushed knit, heavy knit, pebble knit, velvet, tweed, boucle, and more
• Number of seats: 2

Sloan Sofa

$1,316 (reg. $1,645) at Interior Define

8. Best Leather: Sven Charm Sofa, Article

Why We Love It: A compact, comfortable, and affordable leather sofa had to make our best couches for small spaces list. The Sven sofa from Article is available in five different leather colorways and includes a tufted bench seat and two matching leather bolsters. Foam-padded, fiber- and feather-filled cushions make this a comfy seat, and the size is perfect for apartment living.

Pros:

• Includes two bolsters
• Not too firm, not too plush. Just right!
• Five colorways

Keep in mind: 

• Leather varies in color and shade—your sofa won’t look exactly like the photos.

Specs: 

• Dimensions: 72″ W x 38″ D x 34″ H
• Upholstery materials: Leather
• Number of seats: 2

Sven Charme Sofa

$1,599 at Article

9. Best Boucle Sofa: Gwyneth 68″ Boucle Loveseat By Goop

Why We Love It: Simply put, this loveseat is gorgeous. Boucle is having a moment, and this CB2 and Goop collab proves that sleek design can come in small packages. Available in both white and black boucle, this loveseat will look gorgeous in a living room or home office.

Pros:

• Chunky woven boucle is especially cozy
• Chic silhouette

Keep in mind: 

• Only available in one size and two colorways

Specs: 

• Dimensions: 68″W x 29″H x 36″D
• Upholstery materials: Boucle
• Number of seats: 2

Gwyneth Boucle Loveseat By Goop

$1,499 at CB2

10. Best Aesthetic Sofa: Josie Sofa, Pottery Barn

Why We Love It:  The Josie sofa from Pottery Barn has an understated beauty that makes it especially lovely. The slender roll arms are not only pretty to look at, but the streamlined shapes makes it great for small space living. Scale is important, and the details of this sofa won’t overwhelm a tiny living room or office. There are three size options available, ranging from 58” to 82”, and all of them are ideal for apartments and studios. 

Pros:

• Pretty details like slender arm rolls 
• Won’t overwhelm a small space
• All three sizes available are great for small space living

Keep in mind: 

• Not as plush as other sofa options
• Legs aren’t customizable and only available in Espresso

Specs: 

• Dimensions: 73″ W x 37″ D x 33.5″ H
• Upholstery materials: Basketweave, boucle, linen, velvet, chenille
• Number of seats: 2

Josie Sofa

$999 at Pottery Barn

The post 10 Gorgeous Small Couches for When You’re Short on Space appeared first on Camille Styles.

I think we can all agree that this summer more than ever we’re excited to take any and all activities outdoors with friends and family. So, if you’re lucky enough to have a small patio or outdoor space, take advantage of it! Even if it’s tiny, there are some simple small patio design ideas and styling tips you can employ to maximize your outdoor square footage. Yes, it is possible to create a stylish space with limited square footage.

Don’t believe me? Then keep reading to discover some of the decorating tips I leaned on to design this small patio space recently. You’ll see from the before and after photos below how a few throw pillows, pendant lights, and textural materials can really transform any space.

Scroll on for my top six small patio design ideas and then shop the look:

Tip 1: Survey Says!

Before you start designing, it’s important to take a minute to reflect on how you’ll use your patio space. Some people love a lounge area for an afternoon cocktail and others prefer a place to dine al fresco, or maybe you like a little bit of both?! Decide on your must-have features and start designing from there.

Tip 2: Create Zones

Creating zones in your space is especially important for small spaces. This will help your area to feel larger and more functional. I always like to opt for smaller furniture pieces rather than one large sofa or lounge chair. This will help give your patio zones a bit more variety.

Having a multi-functional outdoor patio can make you feel like you’ve gained an extra room and space for entertaining. I love making sure there’s a small food serving table, a round bistro table with two chairs (and two extra if needed!), and a small love seat or comfy chair for overflow. Choose furniture pieces that can double up as other items, too like storage.

Tip 3: Use different Textures

It’s time to ditch the cookie-cutter patio sets. When it comes to furniture pieces, don’t feel like you need to match every wood grain or couch cushion. It’s okay to switch it up! In fact, it will help to break up the space. If this seems challenging, stick to one overall color palette like teak browns or gray tones and weave in textures like rattan, cane, or even a metallic accent. I love using a mixture of indoor and outdoor furniture to make the space feel elevated.

Tip 4: Ground the area. 

Literally! An outdoor rug is a MUST. Adding a great throw rug will warm up the space and make it feel cohesive. A rug also adds an extra layer of coziness, personality and makes it feel like you’ve created an indoor space, outside.

Tip 5: Add Greenery

What’s an outdoor space without a bit of greenery? If you have an apartment patio or balcony, plants can give it that garden-like feel we all crave outside. I like to opt for a variety of herbs like mint, rosemary, and lavender that can double for cocktail garnishes and add flavor to a variety of summer dishes.

Tip 6: Create Personality

I love creating any space (indoor or outdoor) that has a bit of personality. You can add your own flair with throw pillow patterns, dishware, and lighting. If you want to take things to the next level consider items like an outdoor Bluetooth speaker or a wireless projector if you have a blank wall to use as the screen!

Shop My Favorite Small Patio Furniture:

Project 62 Kaufmann Wood Patio Loveseat

Hearth & Hand with Magnolia Upholstered Natural Wood Ottoman

Threshold Cloverly Chunky Knit Poof

Threshold with Studio McGee Composite Planter Hickory

Indoor/Outdoor Concrete Basket Planter – Hearth & Hand with Magnolia

Clear Glass Vase – Hearth & Hand with Magnolia

Blue Jardin De Millefleurs Indoor/Outdoor Area Rug

Takara Cutting Board

Lilas Bistro Chairs

Terrazza Bistro Table

Ooni Fyra 12 Wood Pellet Pizza Oven

Williams Sonoma Glass & Woven Salad Bowls

Viski Raye Angled Amaro Spritz Crystal Glasses Set of 2

10.5″ Melamine and Bamboo Dinner Plate Dark Blue – Threshold

25oz Melamine and Bamboo Cereal Bowl Dark Blue – Threshold

Sonos Move Speaker

LG Portable Full HD LED Smart Home Theater Projector

Linen Square Throw Pillow – Threshold

Shaker Accent Drink Table – Hearth & Hand with Magnolia

What are your top design tips for a small patio? Share them below.

The post Have a Small Patio? No Stress. These Decorating Tips Will Get You Ready for Outdoor Dining appeared first on Camille Styles.

This stylish couple’s approach to decorating is very similar to our own design M.O: a home should always evoke one’s personal style but also tell the story of the people who live there.

So when they started the decorating process, it was important to them that they honor the classic mid-century California architecture while also maximizing the home’s abundance of natural light. “I love a house that already has some charm and character that I can use as design inspiration,” notes Johanna. Ahead, we share the stunning home tour along with details on their design journey and links to shop the look.

Let your travels be your guide…

Johanna’s primary source of inspiration for this space was her travels—something we all miss since quarantine. “I’ve been lucky to have traveled a lot in my life and it’s a big part of what motivated me to start our global sourcing and design business,” she explains. “We love taking the magic of those places home with us where it can be enjoyed in everyday living.” Pro Tip: Sprinkle decorative items—shells, rugs, throws, art—you bought on vacation around your home to bring sentiment and soul to your space. “I’m a nature and travel lover so I’m always trying to bring the outdoors in and collect treasures that tell a story,” she continues.

Her favorite piece is their Saffron + Poe leather strap lounge chair in the living room which they found on their very first sourcing trip to Bali. “It’s a nice little sentimental reminder of that incredible adventure all those years ago right in the middle of our living space,” she recalls.

Layer your neutrals…

No matter the space, Johanna is a “neutral palette gal” for life. “The color scheme for me is always going to be soft-toned textiles, light natural wood, and tonal white walls,” she explains. If this sounds like you too, but you’re afraid it’ll look boring or bland, then follow Vente’s advice and add natural pops of color via art or throw pillows, and by incorporating plants into your design.

Find creative solutions to architectural problems…

While the airy and bright vibe of the house matched Johanna’s go-to style, the classic 60s A-Frame with slanted walls proved a unique challenge when designing the space. But that therein lies the beauty of design and an opportunity to think outside the box. Without the ability to hang art or wall décor, Johanna was forced to get creative when adding visual interest to the space. This looks like statement chairs in empty corners with stools repurposed as side tables topped with decorative objects and accents. Now, the master bedroom is her “absolute favorite part of our home.” She adds: “The towering triangle windows above our bed provide gorgeous views of the tree-covered Mill Valley hills and Mount Tamalpais. It’s honestly the dreamiest place to wake up every morning.”

Make it stylish but liveable…

While we don’t pay attention to design rules at Camille Styles HQ, there is one that Johanna mentioned we agree upon: living spaces need to be livable. “Look for pieces that provide form and function, style and comfort,” she explains. “No sacrificing comfort for beauty—save that for your skinny jeans and best pair of heels.”

Mix high and low…

One of our favorite things about this space is its nuanced, neutral approach throughout but how do you maintain a balance between timeless and trendy? Through mixing found treasures, vintage, and antiques with contemporary pieces, you keep things current yet timeless, always.

Don’t stop decorating…

While the basics like paint color and key furniture pieces come together quickly, as Johanna says “a designer’s home is never done!”—and we couldn’t agree more. “I’m always reimagining every little detail and finding new treasures that need to find their way into my design,” she points out. “Given the constraints of the cozy size and specific architecture of an A-frame, I’m not making big changes to the space (yet!) but I do switch up the art, lighting, rugs, etc.”

So take your time, decorate slowly, and see your space as an evolution—there really is no end date. Pro Tip: Apply the “one-in, one-out rule” to maintain balance and avoid clutter. “I’m always editing as I add, maintaining the balance as I go versus a big edit every once and a while,” she says. “If I add something new, another element may get tucked away or passed on to a friend.”

The devil is in the details…

If there’s one thing Johanna stressed to us during our interview it’s the power of textiles to create a home that’s minimal and modern yet still warm and inviting. Think pillows, throws, and rugs to add warmth and texture to a space while allowing you to keep things minimal and chic. Always pay attention to these smaller details because they really make a big difference to the overall mood and energy of your space.

Mix practical with pretty…

Since spending so much time at home, we’ve all gotten a little stir crazy, but it’s only made Johanna even more grateful for the space she has. “I genuinely love this house which is a really amazing feeling when it’s where you spend all your time,” she says. That said, they had to get creative to ensure their home was a functional yet aesthetically pleasing co-working space now that her husband was working from home too. “We’ve just added a narrow console that we use as a laptop desk to our guest room in front of a sunny window to provide a more private workspace for meetings,” she shares. “I never planned to make that room an office and guest space as we have other office nooks in the house but it has added more flexibility to our work-from-home dynamics and it really just works for the space.”

What is your favorite thing about this home? Share it with us below along with your top design tips.

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The post This Designer Couple Built the A-Frame of Our Dreams—Step Inside! appeared first on Camille Styles.

How do you feel when you’re handed a blank canvas? Does it light your creative soul on fire or does it evoke a knot-like feeling of dread in the pit of your stomach? Well, I feel both of them, equally. But here’s why I’ve learned to embrace it. When I first dipped my toes into the design world it was with great trepidation and self-sabotaging thoughts—I’m not a designer, who do I think I am?—but after about six years as a design editor and decorating my own apartment twice now (this was my first attempt), I’ve honed my eye and developed confidence around what I like and just as importantly, what I don’t. I’m very instinctive now—I know immediately when I see something if it will work in a space or not. And going back to my question earlier, I’ve really come to love both the excitement and the dread at the beginning of a new project because it’s that tension between the two that really drives me to create something special. Of course, this self-assuredness in my design decisions didn’t happen overnight (and I’m still learning) but, today I’m going to share some of the tips and small apartment decorating ideas I learned through my most recent makeover to help you in yours.

First of all, let me give you a quick background. Our little family—my husband, Troy, 12-year-old son, Neon, and 2-year-old Frenchie, Cosmo, and me—relocated from Australia to the hip Silver Lake neighborhood of Los Angeles around six years ago and we’ve been in our small apartment ever since. As soon as we laid eyes on the modern rental we knew it was meant to be. It was the perfect stage to flex my budding designer skills—white walls, concrete floors, and loads of natural light. The living/dining area amalgamates into one open-plan space with the kitchen measuring up to be about 350-square-feet. Yes, the small space definitely presented a challenge but I love to work within constraints—it pushes you to think outside the box! 

Not unlike millions of other Americans, I’ve been working from home since the onset of quarantine which means I spend all day at my dining table. So, for this recent redesign, I really thought about how I use this area and what I can do to create an inspiring space that truly fuels my creative process. My husband and I met backpacking in Nice, France around 20 years ago so that memory combined with the covid-induced travel ban drew me to European influences. This culminated in the form of sculptural pieces, gilded framed artwork, vintage vessels with timeworn patina, and handmade objects like our dining table with its unique knotted base, porcelain pendant lamp by Crosland Emmons, and custom birch bed frame.

So, keep reading to learn more about the design process along with some small apartment decorating ideas to help you create the home of your dreams, too.

Images by Jenna Peffley for Bed Threads. Styling by Brady Tolbert. 

Set a Budget

First things first, we had to set a budget. Of course, this is never the fun part of any project but outlining the maximum dollar amount you’re willing to spend decorating the space is critical. Thankfully, we already had most of the foundational pieces from our first makeover—dining table and chairs, sofa, rug, accent chairs, coffee tables—so this time we searched for decorative objects, artwork, vintage vessels and vases, and sculptures that would add warmth, depth, and texture while also tapping into that European old-world style we were hoping to achieve.

Our biggest budget allocation went to our master bedroom. This space had been left untouched since we moved in and was in desperate need of an overhaul. We knew we wanted a custom bed with luxury linen sheets (thanks, Bed Threads) and eventually decided on a custom bookshelf too after not being able to find one we liked—more on that later! The custom items ended up pushing us way over our budget but we knew these investment pieces would last forever so while the initial outlay stings, its value will continue to increase over time. 

Create a Design Dialogue

One of the many lessons I’ve learned from the incredible Athena Calderone of EyeSwoon is to create a design dialogue within your home. What does this mean exactly? Well, you want each piece in your home to have a voice so that when they’re all styled together, they sing—or at the very least, have an interesting conversation with each other. As an editor, I’m in the business of making stories come to life—storytelling is really at the heart of everything I do whether it’s in the literal sense of putting words down on a page or it’s in the physical realm telling stories through design. So, it makes sense that I would want every piece in this space to weave a narrative about our lives and who we are as people, and as a family right now.

On one of our many sourcing trips, we stumbled upon an antique store that was crammed with trinkets (both good and bad), and my husband and I were immediately drawn to this incredible painting. It had flaking paint from age, a tiny hole, and the gilded ornate frame had seen better days with cracks and chips but we both took one look at it and agreed unanimously that it had to come home with us (it’s rare for us to both agree on something like that!). When we hung it up in the dining room it changed everything about the space. It was truly transformative. I felt like it was the missing piece that really tied all of the others together—the room was singing!

Make It Personal

As I mentioned earlier, my husband and I are travelers at heart, and after meeting in the romantic city of Nice, France, and later falling in love in Venice, Italy we really wanted to bring that European sentiment into the space. But also, who wouldn’t want to feel like they’re in Italy while they’re working from home in Los Angeles? #amirite? My husband is also really big on bringing in pieces that have meaning or add context to the space based on travel or emotional connections. Essentially, they have to have a reason for being there and marry with the existing décor. So, this meant spending our weekends searching local antique stores or hours diving into Etsy and eBay keyword holes—more on that in my next tip! 

You want to design a space that feels instinctively you so that when someone walks into the room, they immediately get a sense of who you are, what you love, and what you stand for. Of course, when you love as many styles, eras, and designers as I do, narrowing down and editing your space can be challenging. I like to create mood boards on Pinterest along with saved folders on Instagram and collect as many images as possible. This helped me get clear on my direction because I could see patterns emerge around textures, tones, eras, and moods. 

Scour Resale Sites

A big part of making it personal is finding pieces that tell your story. That’s why I love vintage so much. From furniture to décor and even clothing, I love nothing more than diving down the rabbit hole of resale sites to find those one-of-a-kind pieces. In fact, Facebook Marketplace has become one of my favorite places to search for unique finds since my beloved flea markets have been closed during covid. It’s not featured in these photos because I found it afterward, but I scored the most incredible vintage teak ball for $100 there and a Greek-inspired plaster pedestal for $30. You just have to be willing to dig around and use multiple keyword variations to find the treasure.

After reading Athena Calderone’s tips on keywords, I have developed a mild obsession for sourcing clay, pottery, and terracotta vessels. In fact, both of the vintage vases on our table and next to our sofa are a $25 score from eBay. There’s nothing quite like the thrill of finding that perfect piece for a bargain price.

Consider Custom

Since we’re renting, I couldn’t make any major changes, although I’d love nothing more than to gut the kitchen and bathrooms, so instead, we focused on the decorative aspects and collaborated with local makers to create personal and unique touches. When I saw this timber bed it became the inspiration behind the design of our master bedroom and so we commissioned our friend Omar (he goes by @nymphobrainiac on Instagram) to make a beautiful birch timber bedroom suite, including a bed frame and bookshelf. It was definitely an investment but we’re so happy we did

Take It Slow

Good design takes time. It’s an old adage but when it comes to decorating your home, it rings true. So, resist the urge to rush, create your mood board, sit with the images and pieces you’ve collected, and really consider what moves you emotionally (and what doesn’t). This is especially crucial before making big investments. Every day we are bombarded with inspirational images on social media that can overwhelm our senses and cause confusion around what you love, and what is just a fad or a trend that feels of the moment—but ask yourself a few questions beforehand like will I still love this in five or 10 years? Does this beautiful piece also serve my practical needs? When you get really clear on these things, you can move forward with confidence and create a space that is truly your own.

Take Risks

Don’t be afraid to dive into the unknown and explore the unfamiliar. It’s in those moments, when you feel uncomfortable, that you are truly pushed to explore something new. It’s not always easy but inevitably you’ll tap into the magic and stumble upon something unexpected. I love those moments, even if it’s a painful process of push and pull to get there, that creative chasm is where everything happens. A well-designed room should have effortless ease and comfortability with a hint of tension and juxtaposition to keep things interesting. But above all, have fun!

What are the small apartment decorating ideas you’ve learned along the way? Share them with us below!

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The post I Live in a Rental—Here’s How I Transformed Our 350-Square-Foot Space Into the Apartment of Our Dreams appeared first on Camille Styles.

Short on space? Utilizing empty closets, vacant walls, or even nooks underneath the stairs, designers and DIY-ers alike are creating small office solutions that are both functional and chic.

It’s time re-assess that neglected area of your home, that with a little attention and creativity, might become your ideal workspace. Just take it from these 14 small offices – you do not need an empty room or even a ton of square footage to create a place where you love to get stuff done. Scroll on for small office ideas from some of our favorite instagrammers that are minimalist, practical, and cute.

 

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Transform an empty closet.

Meet the “cloffice,” aka the closet-office. Tucked away from the rest of your home with just enough room for a desk and simple storage, a vacant closet can actually be the perfect place to set up shop.

 

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Plan around a vacant wall in your bedroom.

Your bedroom might not be the first choice for a designated work spot, but sometime’s it’s the only space available. Set up a small desk on a vacant wall that can even double as a vanity or nightstand. There you have it: a low-key, yet functional workspace.

 

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Set up a window nook.

A dreamy window nook never disappoints. If you can, gravitate towards the natural light in your house or apartment when considering where to set up your workspace.

 

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Maximize your space.

Assess your surroundings and think about a quiet spot in your home that might have under-utilized space. A walk-in closet can sometimes be the best home office because it’s private and already built for storage.

 

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Opt for a built-in desk.

Built-ins are both clean and functional and give the space a defined purpose.

 

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Keep the decor simple.

When it comes to accessorizing your space, less is more. Small spaces can easily become cluttered, so be careful not to overcomplicate it!

 

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Don’t be afraid to set up in common areas.

If you have an open wall in your living room or kitchen, consider letting it serve “double duty” as your workspace. Just make sure to have noise-canceling headphones handy so that you can tune out and get in the zone.

 

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Have a way to close off the space when you’re not using it.

If you plan to transform a closet into your workspace, consider using a door or curtain to close it off from the room when you’re logging off for the day.

 

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Create a workspace under the stairs.

If you have an open staircase, experiment with the vacant space underneath for a unique and inspired work nook.

 

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Decorate with small plants.

Bring the outdoors in and spruce up your space with small plants or succulents.

 

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Pick a consistent color scheme.

Stick with colors and textures that feel calming and expansive. Think whites and light neturals – since it’s a small space, you want it to feel as spacious as possible.

 

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Find the right chair.

While your chair will be one of the main design accents in a small space, make sure your setup is also designed ergonomically – comfort is a MUST.

 

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Think tall.

Incorporate open shelving above your desk and storage down below so that you can have ample storage room for any supplies.

 

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Add your personal flair.

Your workspace should reflect who you are. Don’t be afraid to add a little personality with fun wallpaper or one or two bold accessories. Besides, there are no rules in a small space!

The post #Saved: Turns Out, the Best Small Office Ideas Are on Instagram appeared first on Camille Styles.

Finally, Thoa responded to my constant complaining with, “We’re redoing that back room, and I’m going to design a new office space for you.” I’ve always idolized Thoa’s style. As a production designer and art director with a myriad of talents, I knew she had a vast creative skillset, but I had no idea that would translate to interior design.

Now that it’s done, I can honestly say, I’ve never had a space I love this much. It feels like it wholly represents this chapter in my life in both a personal and professional sense.

Scroll down to see the home office before and after photos then keep reading for all my small home office ideas, tips, and sources to help you redecorate a workspace on a budget. I’ll let the pictures do the talking but first…

Brace yourself for the before:

Tip 1: It all started with light.

Initially, my desk stood against a wall. We situated the room so that the desk faced the windows. When working, it made the space feel brighter visually while also keeping other home distractions behind me and out of sight.

The space was built as an add-on decades ago so the ceilings are pretty low. We also live in Travis Heights, land of the oak trees, therefore the lighting in our house is naturally dim. Instead of investing in sconces and ceiling lights, we got creative with lamps, color, curtains, and a chandelier made of shells.

My sister demanded that I invest in an ergonomic chair for my health. So, I reluctantly put my favorite vintage chair in our living room and spent a good chunk of my budget on a Herman Miller. Though I don’t love it stylistically, let me tell you, it was worth it.

Shop the look:

Anthropologie Washed Wood Desk, Herman Miller Sayl Chair, Anthropologie Peach Hanging Basket, World Market Studio Day Sofa, CB2 Metal Wall Ledge Antique Brass, Urban Outfitters Knotted Window Curtains

Tip 2: Functionality first.

The room is a little strange as it’s in between our bedroom and our bathroom. Initially, it acted as a place to work (or not…), to get dressed, to store things, and more than anything: to walk through. It felt like a little closed-off transient room that was often left neglected.

Going forward, I wanted the room to be more private and to function solely as a studio. It housed random things like towels, purses, and my husband’s clothes which confused its function. We relocated all of those things to other commonsense areas of the home so that only studio-related items lived in the room.

I also wanted the room to feel meditative and serene—a space that would compel me to journal, plan, and daydream (which is why we kept the futon). Lastly, I wanted Jack and other family and friends to feel comfortable hanging out in the room, too. I didn’t want the space to feel exclusive.

Shop the look: 

IKEA Kallax, Anthropologie Katya Knobs, Vitruvi Stone Diffuser, Crate and Barrel Alina Table Lamp, Crate and Barrel Aosta Mirror, Jack and Jill Wall Tarp

Tip 3: Ask a lot of questions.

How do I want to spend my time in the studio?

Thoa asked me a ton of questions before we started the process so we could get really clear on the design direction. I recommend asking yourself these before you design any room. It was so helpful for me.

• How comfortable are you with color on a scale of 1-5? 1 being all neutrals and 5 being open to anything that feels right and looks good.
• Are there any color combinations you feel inspired by or into right now?
• What are some adjectives you would use to describe your dream studio? How does it make you feel?
• What are your must-haves and must not haves if any (i.e. keep the chandelier in the space, need plants, or no dark color walls, don’t get rid of the desk)?
• What is your budget? Very important.

I felt comfortable with a 2/3 on the color spectrum, similar to my personal style. The color needed to be purposeful and minimal, and I knew I wanted a warm room that felt like the sun. I love taupes, ivories, mustards, and reds. A mix of bohemian décor with some vintage flair (without it feeling too themed or curated) was in line with my vision. I thought elements of green would be thoughtful as I had heard that green reduces anxiety and eye strain. And, the idea of incorporating my brand’s colors (shades of ivory, brown, and goldenrod) was also appealing.

I described my dream new office space as eccentric, warm, inviting, nostalgic, quiet, artistic, studio-esque, and I wanted it to make me feel inspired, peaceful, comforted, fulfilled and elevated.

I wanted the space to tell me that I’ve come a long way but the environment also had to make me feel at ease.

Tip 5: Use mirrors to open up it up.

Tip 6: Make it personal.

The majority of the decorative items in the room hold a special story. As a storyteller myself, that element felt particularly important.

Final thoughts…

The post How I Turned 230-Square-Feet Into a Stylish Home Office on a Budget appeared first on Camille Styles.

And when it comes to design, Ashley’s spaces and unique sense of warm-minimalist style can be spotted from a mile away.

After leaving her content marketing office job in 2016, she jumped head first into the full-time blogging world and has since developed a platform that embodies the perfect mix of California-cool and Italian Riviera charm. 

In addition to her amazing eye and knack for finding all the best designer finds on sale, we love that she connects with her audience in a genuine way that makes you feel like you’re one text away from eating pizza on the couch together with a bottle of Pinot. She’s the cool big sister that gives great advice– it’s no wonder her cult-like audience coined the phase #Kaned and regularly share it on social when influenced or inspired. 

For anyone looking to channel a more intentional, ‘less is more’ kind of attitude, Ashley serves up an important lesson in living with what you love, and gives us a tour through her home that proves especially inspiring for those living in small spaces. Her apartment is filled with the same laid back simplicity with which she lives life — and a few personal touches that prove it’s a well-loved home.

Scroll on for a peek inside the chic designer’s Cow Hollow apartment, where 100 percent of the pieces are “so Ashley Kane.”

Tell us about your home.

I live in San Francisco with my husband Matt and our 4 year old labradoodle, Scout. We found our 1 bedroom Cow Hollow apartment on Craigslist 2.5 years ago. We really lucked out—the location and charm spoke to us, and having updated bathrooms/kitchen was some kind of magic—that doesn’t come often in this city!

Describe your space in 5 words or less:

Thoughtfully collected, charming, effortless, cozy.

shop the post: sofa, mirror, linen pillows, tan pillow, brown embroidered pillow, blue pillow, blanket: vintage zuzani (similar)

What’s your favorite spot in the apartment?

We spend the most time in our living room—it’s definitely the heart of our space.

What’s your favorite way to spend time at home?

My husband and I have a tradition of ordering pizza and opening a nice wine club bottle on Friday nights—we look forward to it every week!

I have an obsession with fresh flowers and greenery peppered throughout our home at all times (I cannot wait to have a garden someday!), candles lit in the evenings, and music on!

Pre-pandemic life, I loved hosting girlfriends over weekly (I miss that!). Our space is small but it definitely has *a vibe* and brings so much comfort and happiness!

What was the design inspiration for your space?

Since it’s small and we knew our next step would be to buy a home, we’ve carefully collected things that are beautiful, versatile, and know we will be excited to bring with us down the road when we move. I always lean more toward a neutral foundation and then bring it to life with the details; textiles, plants, collected treasures. I collect visually striking glassware (mainly vintage vases and little trays) and I have a major obsession with charming and unique lighting! I am essentially hoarding vintage lamps at this stage for our future home…

shop the post: coffee table, candle holder, seashell tray, vintage Fontana Arte ashtray (similar) vintage Orrefors ashtray (similar), Senufo stool (similar), rug, accent chair

How did San Francisco play into your design inspiration?

Since I can remember, I’ve always been strongly influenced by European interiors/architecture. I’m really drawn to french and mediterranean styles sitting happily alongside each other, so living in a victorian style space has given us room to build off of the vibe we hope to see in a future space. Our apartment has high ceilings, lush linen curtains that kiss our dark hardwood floors, an arch floor mirror to give the allusion of an archway (french archway doors through a home is my dream), and plaster lighting and accents. I have lived in a handful of apartments over the 11 years I’ve lived in the city and only opted to live in those with immense charm.

On another note, I recently bought a linen headboard with a fun shape, and after ordering it and waiting for its arrival, I kept noticing the same shape on so many entry facades in the city. So, I do think I subconsciously take style cues from San Francisco in that sense as well!

Who are your dream house guests? And, what are you eating, drinking, listening to?

Taylor Swift, Chrissy Tiegen, and Kristen Wiig—what a fun night that would be! My faves. Italian shared plates and delicious red wine would be on the menu with my garden party playlist in the background.

shop the post: bar cart, framed art, vintage lamp (similar), vintage candlestick holder (similar), wavy marble wine holder, cane bench

What has been your biggest design challenge for the space?

We have officially outgrown our storage capacity a year or so ago, so getting crafty with hiding odds and ends has been my biggest challenge. Clutter is not my jam!

shop the post: curtains, nightstand, vintage alabaster lamp (similar), marble pedestal tray, vintage green ashtray (similar), vintage wavy vase (similar), pressed glass dish, headboard

What’s your number one interior design tip?

It’s important to put things together slowly and well. I would rather one beautiful thing in a room than filling the space for the sake of it. Designing a home should be an always-evolving project… there’s no rush!

And on that same note, what are your top design tips for those that are living in apartments or small spaces? 

Carefully curate things you collect. Since we have no more room for additional furniture at this point, I like to get lost in the magic of each and every detail… even my q-tip holder makes me happy!

shop the post: wavy alabaster bowl, cookbook, vase

What are your favorite design resources?

I collect design books and subscribe to a few magazines (Architectural Digest Spain, Cabana, and World of Interiors give me life) that I look forward to sifting through on a regular basis. I always take away amazing ideas and tips from them, and learn about so many beautiful brands, architects, designers, and all kinds of makers. I reference them often when I am feeling inspired to refresh things around our home.

shop the post: vintage Barovier vases (similar) 

Favorite places to shop for furniture and decor:

1stDibs, Etsy, eBay, Live Auctioneers, Fehn Store, South Loop Loft, and estate sales for vintage and antique pieces. A few favorite brands off the top of my head: Nickey Kehoe, Armadillo & Co, One Kings Lane, Anyon Atelier, McGee & Co, fferrone design, and Louise Roe.

A well-designed home should be a reflection of what lights you up.

shop the post: artwork, dining table, dining chairs

What does the fall season look like at your apartment?

I like to up my ante a bit with ambiance and mood come fall. Way more candles lit, decadent blankets on display, autumnal blooms, and moody music on our record player.

Tell us about Ashley Kane — your site, IG, brand, etc. all have the most beautiful aesthetic!

Thank you! That’s so nice! I started blogging in high school as a creative outlet—it was a mixture of collecting inspiration while feeding my curiosities with graphic design and things going digital! It was a hobby that just stuck with me for more than half my life now.

To make living itself an art is my philosophy and how I describe my perpetual drive to live with intention. My content aims to be an inspiring reminder that life is about enjoyment.

I’ve always been a bit obsessed with great branding, so fine-tuning my own style and brand is a perpetual evolution. I am constantly honing in on and running with what drives and inspires me, which has led me to dial into my unique perspective and purpose.

What do you envision for the brand in the future? I can so perfectly envision an A Kane home shop on the horizon! 

I have big dreams and plans in the pipeline! My readers have encouraged a few ideas and I’m excited to continue to work towards bringing them to life.

One thing I can share now is that I love sourcing beautiful and unique vintage so down the road, one thing I have my heart set on is to open a studio/shop that serves as an office space for myself to meet with interior consulting clients, as well as a place people can come in and shop my finds.

As I said, your home should endlessly evolve and there’s just so much beauty in the world to discover/collect and that endlessly inspires me. I think that notion will stick with me forever.

The post Tour Ashley Kane’s Thoughtfully Collected San Francisco Apartment appeared first on Camille Styles.

Sure, our little guy might not appreciate it (yet,) but it sure does bring me joy when I look around at this beautiful nursery, and happy mom = happy baby.

That said, I am proud of all the ways we didn’t spend money on this space by repurposing furniture and decor we already owned, and even inheriting a crib from a cousin (thanks Liba!) The metal storage lockers came from the guest room, the dresser came from our bedroom, and the art pieces were filed away just waiting for the perfect home. I’m in love with the way it all came together. Keep reading to see it for yourself!

How perfect is this rug? It’s the Ipswich Natural Woven Jute Rug from the Mark D. Sikes x Annie Selke collection, and I thought it was just the right blend of classic, but a little bit unexpected and youthful for this space. It adds earthiness and balances the bamboo roller shades we put in the windows.

A classic Eames Lounge Chair has been on my bucket list for years, and leading up to baby’s arrival, we felt there was no time like the present to treat ourselves. It’s classic yet modern, and totally durable — well, at least while baby boy isn’t mobile! At that point it’ll likely be making its way to our bedroom.

And while we’re on the topic of things-that-wont-last-in-here, these gorgeous ceramic planters from Bloomist are another favorite. While they’re still out of reach, they’re the perfect vessels for displaying low maintenance plants.

I’m not sure what we’re calling the theme of this nursery — it’s a little bit country, and a little bit outer space. Space cowboy, maybe? Anyway, my advice is: there’s no reason to feel confined to a theme, especially when designing a child’s room, which is meant to be fun and whimsical. Sure, that stargazing pillow kicked off the vision, but this cowboy artwork by Minta Maria was practically made for a little boys’ room too, so onto the wall it went!

This bedding is from Pottery Barn Kids (one of a few different patterned crib sheets we have on rotation,) and the pillows are from one of my all time favorite shops, Bloomist. The crib is by Dwellstudio — modern yet timeless in every way!

We painted the walls, trim, and doors in Cromarty by Farrow and Ball. The hard to describe blue-green-gray is so serene and interesting, and still feels like a neutral to me.

Above the changing table I hung some sweet polaroids of our dog, and a photo of my pregnant belly taken by talented photographer friend Kate Zimmerman Turpin. Baby boy is already infatuated with staring at these while I change him!

The post Our Design Editor’s Nursery Is Minimalist Perfection appeared first on Camille Styles.

Whitney’s Tiny Canal Cottage in Venice is home to her husband Adam, three-year-old son West, and two beagles and her business – all in under 400 square feet.

Her blog and Instagram are full of exactly the type of home content those of us small-space dwellers are searching for, and they feel like a breath of fresh air to design lovers of all stripes. (And yes, she does share how she stores her vacuum.) From tips on decluttering (hint: don’t shop) to making more eco-friendly choices, today she’s gives us a peek into how living in such a small space has allowed her to lead a very full life. Get ready to take notes.

all photos by whitney leigh morris

When did you decide to start downsizing?

Twelve years ago I went through a major breakup. At the time, I was living in a large apartment in North Carolina. I packed everything I needed in my lil’ Honda Fit, leaving plenty of room for myself, my dog StanLee, and a close friend who accompanied me on the drive across country to California. I moved into a tiny studio apartment and was so content with just my necessities, my pup and my view of the Pacific. Since then, I’ve never had the desire to return to a larger residence.

How did you find your Tiny Canal Cottage?

I discovered it on Craigslist about 9 years ago. At the time, I’d probably visited 20 or so other properties, but the instant that Adam and I stepped onto the front stoop, we knew this was the place for us. We then got married on that same stoop 5 years later…

How did you make the home your own? 

The Cottage has been my full-time office since we moved in. Spending 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in/around the same place will make it your own REAL quick. But I will say that we took our time when decorating and renovating so we could truly understand what we actually needed from the space.

Describe your interiors style.

Simple, (multi)functional, and inspired by nature.

What has been the biggest challenge of living in such a small space?

It’s tough enough to juggle the realities of a live/work space regardless of square footage. Narrow the structure down to under 400 square feet and it becomes even more of a challenge to set boundaries with respect to time management. But I believe the pros greatly outweigh the cons, which is why we continue to use our home in such a versatile way.

How did you tackle it?

When the house needs to function strictly as a dedicated office, my husband and three-year-old go out on adventures to provide me with the space I need to do my job effectively. This works well for all of us, as it guarantees our son extra time outdoors, and introduces him to places of interest throughout our neighborhood and city.

What is your biggest win in your home?

Natural light. Our home is tiny, and yet we have two skylights, 2 sets of windowed doors, a windowed Dutch door, a windowed headboard, and additional traditional windows. That’s a lot of light for any space, let alone one that’s this compact!

Where are your favorite places to shop for small-space solutions? 

Etsy or our local vintage shops are my go-to for home decor. Instead of looking for a specific item, I look for anything that’s the right size and shape with similar functionality. For example, instead of looking for a plastic file box to contain the documents we need to keep on-hand, I’ll look for vintage suitcases and picnic baskets, which help us reduce our use of plastic and gives new life to items currently in the waste stream while simultaneously making our home more interesting.

What advice do you have for someone trying to live with less? Where can they start?

Start by pumping the breaks on new purchases. It does you no good to declutter your home while you continue to bring fresh purchases through your door. And if/when you do bring something new into your home, immediately donate at least two items in its place.

And for someone wanting to live more sustainably?

Start by tackling one element of your routine or home, such as your cleaning supplies or bath + body regimen. All of these can be conducted in a zero or low waste manner without having to sacrifice quality or convenience. A secondary perk of employing reusable goods is that suddenly you’ll find yourself shopping far less, which means that you’re less likely to make impulse purchases. Going green can not only help the planet— it can help your home remain uncluttered, it can save you shocking amounts of time, and it can save you money.

Has having a child in your small space changed the way you approach it?

Our space hasn’t changed too wildly since we had our son. (Although for the first year we had a closet nursery, which we loved and miss.) When you don’t own much, you don’t have to change much! We are just a bit more flexible with the space, adapting it gently over time as our son’s needs and interests evolve. Most of our furnishings are built-in, so that inspires us to get extra creative since there’s very little we can modify without construction.

How do you resist the pressure to shop (for more toys for West, clothes, home decor, etc.)?

I flat-out dislike shopping. I wasn’t always this way. But I now know how much time is freed up by not shopping, and I’ve experienced all the wonderful activities we can do with that liberated time. Plus having fewer toys and fewer garments means we spend less time looking for things, tending to them, and organizing them. I simply get to BE with my family, and that feeling is more fulfilling than any purchase could ever be.

What are your top entertaining tips for a small space?

First, remember that you not only have to accommodate your guests— you need to accommodate their belongings, too. Make space for bags and coats in clever ways that won’t consume your valuable surface and seating inches.

Secondly, get creative with serving and hosting tools. You don’t have to buy and store a gravy boat for the one day of the year when you’d use it, nor do you need serving utensils and plates if you can make do with other items you already have on-hand. (And you don’t need to go with disposables!)

Can your cutting board be a serving board when topped with a bit of reusable beeswax wrap? Can your desk become a buffet? Can the exterior of your closet become the coat drop with the help of hooks? Can you ask everyone to bring their own cup (or whatever!) to help you cut back on waste? I find that this sort of thing only adds to the charm of hosting a party in a small space.

What is your single favorite thing about your home?

Our family derives so much joy from this space for a myriad of reasons. I love that we’ve grown within it, rather than fooling ourselves into thinking that we’ve grown out of it. We started out here as a couple with one dog. We progressed to a married couple with two dogs. We’re now married business partners with two dogs and a three-year-old. This house has given us the gift of experiencing more by owning less.

The post You Won’t Believe this Venice Beach Family Home is Less Than 400 Square Feet appeared first on Camille Styles.

Oh how I love the feeling of walking into a house that’s fully decorated for the holidays. Give me the towering trees, the twinkling lights, and the completely decked-out mantels!

But when, like me, you live in a 600-square-foot apartment with minimal storage, a significant other, and a dog, an obsession with all things festive can pose a bit of a problem. And for that matter, most Christmas decorations don’t lend themselves well to homes without garages, attics or basements to store them in for the remaining 11 months of the year.

That’s where these small-space holiday decoration ideas come in. Each packs a festive punch without threatening to take over your entire space, and come January 2, will be easy enough to store in even the tiniest of spaces. Now that’s what we call a Christmas miracle.

photo by kirsten kilpatrick

photo by apartment 34

Festive Bunting

A bare corner becomes full of holiday magic thanks to a load of small-scale metallic bunting. The green-and-metallic color palette here makes for a modern twist on Christmas classics, but this idea could work with a whole range of colors and patterns layered over each other. An added bonus? If you don’t have room to store ornaments, wrapping a tree with sparkling bunting is a great way to mimic the same look and feel.

photo by sarah sherman samuel

Deck Your Shelves

Sweet and small decorations make for a big impact when used to lend your bookcase (or any set of shelves really) some festive flair. The key here is to focus on one central piece of décor – in this case a minimal wreath – and then let the rest of your decorations play a supporting role. Trying to pack in too much will just make everything look cluttered (and will be harder to store once the holiday season is over).

photo by iheart organizing

Snowflakes, Reimagined

Who knew an elementary school craft could make for such chic holiday décor? The beauty of these snowflakes is threefold – they’re incredibly easy to store, affordable, and fun to make. (What more could you want?!) We love the idea of clustering them down a hallway like this, but soft white and icy blue snowflakes could look equally good hanging from the ceiling of your living room or acting as a mock-chandelier above your dining table

photo by from nicole franzen

No Mantel, No Problem

Just because you don’t have a fireplace doesn’t mean you have to skip out on stockings! Hanging them from a blanket ladder is a festive-yet-minimal way to incorporate a bit of flair into your existing décor. You could also hang them from any set of shelves that could use a bit of holiday cheer.

photo by @jamiedanahairstylist

Go Scandi

If you haven’t picked up on the overarching theme of our tips yet, here it is: when it comes to small space holiday decorations, simplicity is often key. So with that in mind, take a cue from this Scandi setup by draping your mirrors with green garlands and adding in small festive touches that fall in line with your existing interiors. For something you’ll be able to keep up long past Christmas, go for a garland of Eucalyptus — you can also add it in with any existing flower arrangements you have peppered around your space for another wintery touch.

photo by @melissa.brookes

Grab a Garland

Like we mentioned in our last tip, garlands are a really easy way to make virtually any room of your small space feel holiday ready. Drape one over your headboard, around your TV stand or down the center of your dining room table if you don’t have room for a full-size tree (we’d suggest amping up the festive vibes by scattering a few colorful ornaments throughout). Or, add one above a kitchen window to inject a bit of Christmas magic into an area that doesn’t usually see much decorating. The best part? You can usually pick up real pine garlands on the cheap from anywhere that sells Christmas trees, and you’ll have nothing to pack away once the season is over.

photo by david prince    

Display Your Way

If you don’t have any spare surfaces to decorate with a garland or display your Christmas cards, consider making creative use of your home’s vertical space. Making your walls do double-duty is a tried-and-true trick of small space living, and this innovative way to hang cards does just that. This DIY works best with a wintery green branch (again, see if you can swipe one from your local Christmas tree farm) and neutral ribbon to attach your cards to, and would look especially good hanging in an entryway.

Got other small-space decorating tips? Tag us on Instagram @camillestyles to show off how you decorate your home for the holidays!

The post 7 Genius Ways to Decorate Your Small Space for the Holidays appeared first on Camille Styles.

So when we discovered a decaying garage in the backyard of a Central Austin bungalow, rather than seeing red flags, we saw possibility.

After closing, the first call we made was to my good friend and wildly talented architect Scott Parks. This was a job for a professional, and with Scott’s plans and guidance, we were fearless in gutting the 400 square foot structure. Five months later, the project is complete (hallelujah!), and we are the proud hosts of a fully operational, totally gorgeous guest house. Read on for all the details and resources, or better yet, come see it for yourself!

When looking into the best system for the front door of our guest house, I struggled to find hardware that was beautiful but also “smart” enough to allow guests to check themselves in easily. In the end, the Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt was the winner — it has all the high tech functionality we need and looks great too.

You guys would never believe the “before” photos of this space (here’s one for ya.) It had been used as a recording studio several homeowners ago, but since then, it was totally neglected. When we bought the house, this place was smelly, dark, scary, and raccoon infested! It needed to be dealt with. Halfway through our renovation we made the call to vault the ceilings, which made such an enormous impact, and it’s now virtually unrecognizable — in a really good way.

The space was outfitted with a combination of thrifted pieces, items from my old place (remember the rug?), and beautiful new furniture from Room & Board.

Until now, I’ve only ever furnished with Craigslist finds and vintage scores, and supplemented with basics from Ikea. While that kind of decorating certainly inspired some creativity, there’s something to be said for bringing really high quality, handmade furniture into your space. Room & Board’s customer service and delivery process alone were a total game changer, and I know this furniture will stand the test of time — both in style and durability. Pictured above is the Braden Custom Sofa in Destin Grey, the Oskar Lounge Chair and the Reclaimed Fir Timber Stool.

On the other side of those french doors is a stone patio, which is so lovely on a beautiful day. Blindsgalore was another fantastic company we got to partner with, and their custom sheers on rings are light, airy, and just thick enough to offer guests privacy from our shared backyard space.

We wanted this space to be bright and minimalist to always give a sense of cleanliness, but still cozy enough to feel like home for our guests. Lots of natural texture and neutral colors helped warm up the all-white interiors.

I knew I wanted a really simple, streamlined platform bed for our guest house, and the Core Bed from Room & Board was exactly what I was looking for. Plus it comes in 15 colors! I topped it with the Norwich Blanket in Blush, the Surrey Down Blanket, and pillows from Therapedic which are designed to stay cool all night long.

Pictured above is the Mills Wood Nightstand and Monarch Table Lamp in White. Below, some favorite light reads to better acquaint our guests with Austin — the Austin City Guide by Wildsam, and El Arroyo’s Big Book of Signs.

This door! Out of the entire renovation, this door is totally my pride and joy. Our contractor gave us the dimensions of the door opening, and so we went to the Habitat for Humanity Restore here in Austin in hopes to find something that would fit it. My husband spotted this beauty, which was painted off-white at the time, and it was the perfect size. We had it sanded and stained, and then added a pretty matte black lever from Schlage for the hardware.

Wait, did I say the door was my pride and joy? I meant this bathroom is. Scott designed the most adorable layout for the tiny space — because who doesn’t love a pony wall ledge — and all it took was a few special finish outs, like simple Daltile 2×2 tiles in Arctic White, to take it to the next level.

The vanity was a custom design by Scott, and we topped it with Caesarstone in Intense White. All the beautiful brass faucets and fixtures came from Delta Faucet, and I’m in love with how they look.

Pictured is the Trinsic Lavatory Faucet, the Trinsic Shower Trim, the Trinsic 24″ Towel Bar, and the Foundations Toilet with the Trinsic Tank Lever.

Below, the Saco Soap Tray and the Saco Tumbler (not pictured) are the perfect little bathroom accessories.

We originally planned to just put a kitchenette in the guest house, but when we realized we had the space, we went ahead and outfitted a complete kitchen.

Scott designed the a-mazing cabinets, and our contractor worked his magic to bring our vision to life. Once again, the Caesarstone in Intense White looks modern and clean, and it has a very cool textured matte finish as well.

Is it just me, or is everyone always on the hunt for woven bamboo-style roman shades? The windows in this space aren’t all standard sizes, so I searched for nearly two weeks before I finally came across this perfect customizable style from Blindsgalore. The team there is so nice, you guys, and the product arrived exactly how I wanted it. Highly recommended.

The Trinsic Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet from Delta Faucets has me feeling some type of way. Seriously, couldn’t be happier with this choice.

I was feeling totally stumped by this large blank wall in the kitchen before I discovered ArtStartArt, which is a new online marketplace where college level artists can sell their work. The collection changes each month, which is why I was glad I could get my hands on this piece by Miranda Terry before it was gone. It’s such a great way to both support young artists and get your hands on original work at affordable prices — I can’t wait to frame this beauty.

Click here to book a stay at our guest house!

The post Chanel’s Bright and Modern Guest House Renovation appeared first on Camille Styles.

Knowing that she’s the talented shutterbug responsible for so many of our favorite features on the blog, we knew what to expect from Kelly: something bright, well-designed, friendly. And that’s exactly what we got. Keep reading for all the thoughtful details that make up Kelly and Canaan’s 300 square foot home.

We’re loving the idea of simple living. Tell us about your tiny house. 

We started building our home in mid-July of 2016 and moved in that October. Our home is 312 square feet and we currently have it parked on a beautiful piece of family property in the piney woods about 80 miles east of Dallas.

So why a tiny home, and how has it changed your lifestyle?

A few years ago we lived in a pretty big house with our roommate and had accumulated a lot of “stuff.” It made us feel a little weighed down. We started to feel that urge to downsize, not only our material possessions, but also our carbon footprint and the amount of money thrown away on rent and bills each month.

We started the downsizing process by selling a bunch of our things and moving into a 700 square foot apartment. This was a good way to test out tiny living before we went all in. We felt like we could definitely go smaller, so we did!

How would you describe your interior design style?

My husband Canaan and I are both strongly opinionated about interior design and our interior tastes have slowly evolved together. We both love bright, open, and clean spaces that still feel very cozy, warm, and eclectic. We got to design our house from the ground up and chose every little detail. It was so fun and such a learning experience.

Have you experienced any design challenges in this home?

We are still figuring out ways to make better use of our storage spaces. I’m actually really happy with our layout and the amount of cabinets and closets we have. Although, if an extra shoe cabinet magically appeared, I wouldn’t complain!

One thing that I used to do that’s impossible in a tiny home is rearrange furniture. I would get the urge to move everything around for a fresh perspective a few times a year, but now, nothing moves. Each thing is where it was designed to be. To combat these urges, I still move little things around like plants and art.

Is there anything you miss about “normal-sized” living?

Though the space is smaller than what most people are used to, you quickly adapt to living with less if you’re open to it. To us, living in a tiny house hasn’t taken away anything from our life. It has given us more freedom, less financial obligation, and a more environmentally conscious outlook.

How sustainable is your home? Do you have solar panels or a rainwater system?

No, but that would be awesome. Solar panels cost a lot and our electric bills do not. We couldn’t justify the cost right now but we would love to have them someday. We’d also love to have a rainwater system, but that can get tricky with dry Texas summers.

We can’t help but ask… how much did all of this cost?

I’m totally fine sharing this information because it’s the second most asked question I receive. Our budget was $65,000 and we stuck to it very well. We took what we had in our savings and added it to what we would spend in rent over the next 3 years and that was our magic number. Now we spend the same amount paying back our loan per month as we did paying rent. However, the house will be completely paid off within the next 3 years. Cue happy dance!

Has living in a tiny house affected your relationship?

Nothing has changed in that regard. If anything, I think my husband and I are even closer. We’ve always been best friends and very happy sharing a small space together. Both of our families and all of our friends love coming over to visit.

If you could describe this house in one word, what would it be?

Happy. That’s the first word that comes to mind. When someone new comes over they always say our home has a good energy. Our friends and their kids love coming over to hang out. We always have a good time here.

Can you share some of the sources you used when building and decorating your home?

Our house was custom built by American Tiny House. We got our couch, barstools, and media cabinet from IKEA. Our living room rug and outdoor swings are from Joss & Main. Almost everything else was thrifted or found at estate sales.

Your favorite thing about your house, go!

I really love our living room. We love watching movies together and it’s so cozy, especially at night if it’s storming. The sound of rain on our tin roof is amazing. The couch we chose has a section hidden underneath that we can pop out so we can put our feet up.

Shop Kelly’s Grand Canyon print here

And your least favorite thing?

There isn’t really anything that I don’t love about our home. It does make me a little sad to think about how we will outgrow it at some point. We won’t always live here, but I hope we will always have it nearby for guests.

Shop Kelly’s favorite candle here

What’s the next big change or addition you want to make to your home?

We’ve actually finished most of the home projects that were on our list. Since our home was custom built, then moved to this property, not much had to be done inside except decorate. Pretty much all of our projects had to do with the outside area and making it inviting. We love entertaining our friends and family so we wanted our outside space to be really fun.

Any tips or words of wisdom for someone interested in living in a tiny house?

I would advise not to jump straight in overnight. It’s easy to get caught up looking at all the cute homes online without actually picturing your daily life in a smaller space. Downsize slowly so you don’t regret your decision. We really took our time with it and I’m so glad we did. About a year and a half passed from the moment we first considered it to when we actually moved in.

The post An Inside Look at This Photographer’s Impeccably Designed Tiny House appeared first on Camille Styles.

The perfect marriage of form and function, an Airstream is a solid investment if you’re looking to downsize, travel, and live a life that doesn’t keep you in one place for too long.

I think the best part about owning an Airstream is what sets it apart from vintage RVs and VW busses: the option to unhitch. With an Airstream, if you find somewhere you’d like to live and stay awhile, you can. And when you’ve had your fix, you can pack up and head out just as quickly as you arrived. Although tiny living certainly isn’t cut out for everyone, I can’t help but admire those who make the bold move to sell everything they own and opt for a simpler life on the road.

From a kitschy trailer in Marfa to an Airstream in Malibu with 360 views of the Pacific Ocean, here are 10 of the raddest Airstreams that have taken a piece of Americana to the next level.

image by everyday pursuits

‘Isla’ Airstream by The Modern Caravan

‘Mavis 2.0’ Airstream by Sheena Armstrong

El Cosmico Trailers in Marfa, TX

Autocamp Airstreams in Sonoma, CA

‘Josephine’ the Airstream by Arrows & Bow

‘Malibu Dream’ Airstream in Malibu, CA

Hotel Daniel Trailer in Vienna, Austria

‘Good Thyme Farm’ Airstream by Bailey McCarthy

‘The Foxes’ Airstream by Gabi & Brandon Fox

‘Joshua Tree Acres’ Airstream in Joshua Tree, CA

The post 10 Airstreams That Make Us Want to Drop Everything and Hit the Road appeared first on Camille Styles.

Admittedly, I wasn’t a total stranger to the space. I’ve caught many glimpses of it over the years as a backdrop to the kind of raucous revelry that only New Orleans can produce, and that only Instagram Stories allows you to see.

Like any good New Orleanian, Lauren and Sean are serious about having a good time, and never is that truer than during Mardi Gras, when music, tradition and celebration fill the city streets.

Or in the Greenbergs’ case, they walk right through the front door, and make themselves at home. It’s a beautiful homage to a city bursting with history, and a place we hope to visit soon. Read on for all the soulful details, and to get the inside scoop on the project that Lauren and Sean plan to reveal next.

Those floors! And doors! And high ceilings! Tell us about your home.

I had been watching New Orleans real estate for a few years and this single shotgun house one block off Magazine Street caught my eye. It was over 100 years old in fairly good condition (by New Orleans’ standards) and perfectly situated between Uptown and the Garden District within walking distance to some of our favorite spots. It felt almost too good to be true! We moved in September of 2017 and split our time between here and Austin. This town isn’t super Airbnb friendly and we wanted to respect the neighborhood so instead of listing it on a home share site, we rent it out to friends and family when we’re not here.

We want on that list. What’s your favorite way to spend time at home?

Honestly, we spend more time away from home when we’re in town since it’s such a social place – there’s always a party, a dinner or parade to attend! But I love coming home from an early morning walk with Ludo, turning on WWOZ radio and sipping coffee in the living room.

How did New Orleans play into your design inspiration?

It’s hard not to be inspired by this city. Its steeped in rich history and so culturally diverse there is originality in its architecture, food, music and art. The carefree vibe makes it’s easier to be playful and bold in design. I also found myself naturally drawn to shades of green surrounded by all the lush, tropical vegetation.

So, shotgun style homes — so charming, but so tricky. How did that present design challenges?

The overall layout is unique. A traditional shotgun requires you to walk through all of the rooms to reach the back of the house which might sometimes mean walking through the master bedroom. Our house features a unique side entrance off of a hallway which made the floor plan a little tricky to navigate. Somehow, we managed to collect some very unusual pieces like these petite bamboo side chairs we found in Atlanta’s Chinatown and a very shallow tiki-style bar that seemed to fit the space very naturally.

What was the overall inspiration for this house?

Sean and I go on a few antiquing trips per year and almost everything in this house was found on one of those trips. My inspiration was a combination of funky Caribbean-esque pieces like our rattan buffet paired with Old World elegance like marble lamps and velvet side chairs.

Yes! We are definitely picking up on those Carribean vibes.

It sounds like you collect a lot of inspiration (and pieces!) from your travels. Do you have any favorite design resources?

I use Pinterest to create mood boards for any project. AD, Apartamento, Roman & Williams, World of Interiors, Coveteur home tours, and T Magazine too.

How about any favorite places to shop?

Antiques! We never miss Round Top, but preferably found antique malls on a road trip. I also love Nickey Kehoe, Canvas, Burke Decor and the Sunday Shop in New Orleans.

Above, The Greenbergs’ dining room is painted in Farrow and Ball’s Breakfast Room Green.

You’re not an interiors designer by trade, but you have such an eye for it! Do you have one go-to design tip to share with home decorators?

Fill your home with things you love, especially art.

Who are your dream house guests?

We love hosting friends who have never been here. It gives us an excuse to do fun, touristy things and indulge in all the food!

What’s your favorite spot in the house? (I know mine.)

Our bedroom. I love the dark, moody walls (painted in Farrow and Ball Inchyra Blue) and our canopy bed. On nice days, we open the shutters and prop open the window facing onto the street. Neighbors are chatting on their porches, bikes are constantly whirring by or the marching band practices at the nearby school… you feel so connected to the city.

We especially love following along on your New Orleans adventures this time of year. What does Mardi Gras look like at your house?

Glitter, rhinestones, glue guns, more glitter. Oh, and king cake!

Fill in the blank: A well-designed home should _______. reflect the personality of its owner.

Tell us more about what you do at Work in Progress.

Work in Progress is a boutique digital agency we founded around six years ago. We build e-comm sites and digital marketing strategies for retail brands. I launched an online gallery of the same name to represent a few emerging artists whose work I admire. My husband and I are actually in the process of opening our own retail concept in Austin called Maufrais. The space will include coffee and kolaches, a custom Stetson hat bar, antiques, housewares and an event space/gallery on South Congress.

We are counting down the days until Maufrais’s opening! You always have such amazing art. Tell us about the different pieces in your home.

They all have great stories! We have several pieces from Leroy Miranda Jr. (below), a native New Orleanian whose work I discovered in a restaurant in the Bywater a few years ago and sculptures from Barcelona artist Diego Cabezas (both artists whom I represent). A friend of ours introduced us to a Brazilian folk artist named Rodrigo Pecci who was living in New Orleans when we bought the house. His painting on a salvaged dining room table top hangs in our living room and was one of the first things we moved in. We also have a Butch Anthony piece in our bedroom that aptly says ‘Ain’t No Rest for the Weary’ and a large painting of ‘Olivia’ on an unstretched canvas by artist Miguel Rangel. ‘Olivia’ instantly reminded me of voodoo priestess Marie Laveau despite having found her in Austin. She’s my Texas Voodoo Queen.

Describe your home in 5 words or less:

charming, quirky, cozy, carefree, drafty

The post This Art-Filled Home Is The Definition Of New Orleans Charm appeared first on Camille Styles.

photography by Stephen Karlisch

Your apartment has such beautiful light. Tell us about the space.

My apartment is on the fourth floor of a charming mid-century building nestled into the banks of Turtle Creek near downtown Dallas. When looking for a place in Dallas, we were coming from NYC where we were living in a 450 sq. ft. apartment with no outdoor space. I was really craving something light and bright with an indoor-outdoor feel, but still with the comfort of being in a building. As a design enthusiast, I also wanted to find a historic building that was loved by its residents. I immediately fell in love with 3701 Turtle Creek and my unit, which looks out over lush greenery. The building feels gracious, not stuffy, with a real sense of community because of the building’s storied past. It’s one of the earliest residential high-rises in Dallas, completed in 1963, and is a beautiful example of mid-century design, with many original finishes…and its original windows! The building was established as a condo association as soon as condo laws were adopted in Texas in the 70’s by a group of investors including Nieman Marcus founder Stanley Marcus and former US Ambassador Robert Strauss. Scenes from the TV show Dallas were filmed in the building, and Jerry Hall called the penthouse home for many years while with Mick Jagger.

pictured: dining table is Richard Schultz for Florence Knoll from 3 years after Scott’s building was built; chairs are collected Paul Volther for Frem Rolje with original caning; paint color is Ice Mist from Benjamin Moore

Who are your dream house guests?

I don’t cook as often as I would like, but I do love making meals and entertaining. Honestly, my favorite times are always with dear friends and family…trying to spoil them with a great spread.

To us your space looks perfectly complete and so thoughtfully arranged. Did you run into any challenges while designing and decorating it?

When we left New York, we brought very little of our furniture, because most of it had been around since college. At the same time, we were more than doubling our space, so the emptiness was overwhelming initially. My biggest struggle was finding the patience to only buy quality, meaningful furnishings that would be interesting together and hopefully stick with me.


Describe your home in 5 words or less:

Light-filled, artful treehouse.

This balcony is dreamy. Do you spend a lot of time out here?

Drawing and designing are my favorite ways to lose track of time. A good cup of coffee is a nice accompaniment. I also really enjoy taking care of our plants on the balcony. I grew okra this summer.



What was the design inspiration for your home?

The history of the building was really where I started, so studying and thinking about the cause and the spark that ignited mid-century design, from color stories to ways of laying out space. I was also inspired by my own collection of objects and thinking about how to best enjoy those. And then of course, the human comforts and trying to make sure Ali would feel at home as well!

We love your use of color. While you use bright shades, they still feel subtle. What are your tips for incorporating color into a space?

I find that everyone sees colors and color combinations differently, both literally and because of specific memories that we have from our life experiences. Color can lead to really interesting conversations with clients, and I love that. With each project you have to boldly follow your color instincts and play until it works for all parties.

pictured: lounge chair is Cassina designed by Le Corbusier in the 1920’s

pictured: coffee cubes are 1950’s chrome, Scott added the purple feet and glass tops; rug from Restoration Hardware; sofa from DWR; living room painting by Scott

How do you approach shopping for your home?

I like to mix it up, so I’ll thrift an item one day, design/build something the next, and order a brand new item online the next. I like it that way because you capture a wide range of time and style in your furnishings, which creates richness. For soft items like beds and couches, I tend to go new or have things fully reupholstered, mostly for practical/cleanliness reasons. With hard items like tables and chairs, I like to thrift and revise things, like my coffee table cubes, which I finished with more cubes for feet and glass tops for durability.

pictured: original Milo Baughmann Scoop Chairs that Scott reupholstered in denim

What’s your number one interior design tip?

Design at the pace of your life and enjoy the process. Rushed spaces always show it.

How about tips for keeping your place clean and clutter-free?

Try to only buy things you truly love and that are made with care. Then put away the things you do have when you’re done with them. Don’t leave picking up for tomorrow.

pictured: dark wood chair is 1930’s from Scott’s grandfather’s barber shop in Stillwater, Oklahoma; burgundy vase by Aesthetic Pursuit

pictured below: vintage dresser designed by Yngve Ekstrom

pictured: bed frame and nightstands are DWR Min Collection; bolster pillow is custom; euro shams by Yves Delorme;
blanket by Garza Marfa; sconces by Workstead; photograph is Felix Gonzalez Torres from 2010 exhibition at Fondation Beyeler; 

If you had to pick, what’s your favorite spot in the house?

No doubt the bed – we love to sleep.

Where do you turn for design inspiration?

BOOKS about design history; Fashion runways and editorials; Nature

Fill in the blank: A well-designed home should ___.

Tell you a story you can’t hear anywhere else.

The post An Architect’s Mid-Century Dallas Oasis appeared first on Camille Styles.

On a personal level, we adore the girl, and since her arrival to Austin back in 2012, she’s been a mainstay in this town’s creative scene. Cristina’s style is ever-evolving and authentically her, and so when we heard that she was packing up for The Big Apple, we knew we had to pin her down for a tour of her loft before she skipped town. Read on to see her young, fresh, and totally original space, and be sure not to miss her many clever DIY tips to apply to your own.

photography by Laura Alexandra

What was the design inspiration for your loft?

My ultimate design inspiration has always been museums and art galleries. Whenever I visit a museum I like to look at the art and objects in terms of where I would put them in a home. I’m inspired by the expanses of white walls and the way they display things to make them look significant. Anything can look like a piece of art with a story if displayed and lit well.

That’s a really creative way to approach interior  design. How does that play into your use of color?

Color is hard because we go through different phases in our life of loving different colors, or just liking bright whites or all neutrals. That’s what happened to me, I got all of this bold, colorful art and then in this home I entered a phase of wanting to get rid of all the color. My solution was to put all of the art on one wall so the color was contained in one place, and then kept the rest of the home a more neutral color palette with navy as my accent.

pictured: bed from Craigslist but can be found on Room & Board; bedside tables Ikea hack; picture ledges from Ikea; paintings are by Aboriginal artists Gloria Petyarre, Betty Mbitjana, and Jeannie Mills Pwerle, and can be found at galleries like Mbantua Gallery

How do you keep your surroundings inspiring?

I personally find that having fewer things gives me the space and time to feel inspired and creative – when I have too much going on my brain feels cluttered.

Totally agree. Did you find it challenging to keep this space looking and feeling minimal?

Yes. It’s so easy to shop and order things on Amazon or online that I feel like I “need,” like a pizza stone or a coffee table book. But with every new thing that I acquire I have to find a place to store it and then maintain it – it adds up quickly! So my biggest challenge has been avoiding the temptation to buy things just to fill a space.

Do you have any favorite design resources?

Antique stores. I’ve used Overstock and Ikea a lot because it’s more affordable, but antique stores are my favorite place to source the things that are going to give a home character and at least a feeling of history. I can spend hours digging through antique malls, but if you don’t have that stamina then places like Goodwill and Savers always have shelves full of the kinds of ceramics, bowls, and picture frames that you could end up spending a lot of money on if you bought them new.


Your home is so light-filled and happy. How did you find it?

This was the first place I looked at when I was searching for a home, and I knew immediately that this was the one. I knew I wanted to paint the windows black and put shelves in the corner – I could already see it. I still looked at other places just to be sure, but I was sold. I found it, looked at it, and closed on it all by myself, so it was a big exercise in trusting my own judgment. It’s been 4 years and I’ve really grown through the experience of living here and customizing this home for the life I want.

Do you have a favorite spot in the house?

The dining table. When I walked into the space for the very first time, I knew I wanted to put a long dining table in this spot. I love to sit here while I work, spread out, drink tea, burn incense, I also use it as a prep space when I’m cooking, and one of my favorite things to do is invite a bunch of people over for dinner parties. I like to eat all my meals sitting at a table instead of a couch – it feels like more of an occasion to me.

pictured: dining table DIY using wood from Eastside  Lumber; mirror from Anthropologie; white dining chairs from Overstock

I’ve loved following along some of the really clever design changes you made to your space. What affordable updates can you recommend to other homeowners?

1. Take the doors off the kitchen cabinets. This took me about 5 minutes with a screwdriver and created an open shelving look in my kitchen. I plugged the holes that make the shelves adjustable with little white plugs from Ikea.

2. Paint the kitchen cabinets. I didn’t like the standard reddish brown cabinets (before photos here) I had so I painted them this navy/grey color. It’s a bit tedious sanding and painting them, but it completely transformed the look of my entire home since it’s a studio.

3. Sticker tiles. I also didn’t like my backsplash but didn’t want to go so far as to retile, so I gave Smart Tiles a try and can’t believe how good the results were. No one ever believed me when they came over and I told them they were stickers. I also stuck them in the backs of the cabinets to make the open shelving more convincing. You can see my full review here.

4. Picture ledges. I’ve put these picture ledges up in the last few apartments I lived in, they’re so versatile! I can quickly rearrange everything on them depending on whatever phase I’m in. Sometimes they’re colorful, sometimes they’re more neutral, sometimes they’re super minimal.

5. Paint the window frames. When I moved in the windows had brown frames, and I wanted to give them more of a factory window vibe so I painted them black. I think it really elevated the whole look of the space, and while it was tedious, I’d definitely do it all again.

All of the changes I made were to make my home fit me and my lifestyle better. When I first moved in there was a built in desk and cabinets in the entryway, but I knew I’d never sit at a desk so far away from the windows, so I took them out and use the space as a landing strip and to store my clothes instead (since it’s next to my bathroom and closet). People were always telling me I should put up dividers for privacy or arrange the furniture differently but I trusted my own instincts and arranged it to suit the way I use the space.

After all that DIY work is done, what’s your favorite way to have fun at home?

Cooking something delicious. My boyfriend and I like to do pizza nights and compete to see whose topping combinations and crust are better. On weekends I like to try more elaborate recipes that take extra time you just don’t have on weeknights. I love making a big breakfast with waffles, berries, eggs, the whole thing. And I recently bought an Indian cookbook so I’ve been stocking up on all new-to-me spices and ingredients.

Who are your dream house guests?

My family. When they come into town I’ve had up to 6 of them stay with me, and my friends are always surprised that they all fit in my studio. It makes me happy to be able to host and take care of them since they’ve done so much for me.

pictured: pull-out sofa from West Elm; floor lamp from Overstock; black chairs from Overstock; coffee table from Ikea; black bookshelves from Ikea; ceramics by Work by Nonny 

How did you approach shopping for your loft?

I really enjoy taking inexpensive things and making them look high end. I have a lot of Craigslist finds, it takes time and patience but if there’s an expensive piece you want from popular stores like Restoration Hardware or West Elm then there’s a chance they’ll show up on Craigslist. And once a year I let myself invest in one dream item, like the purple painting, the floor lamp, the mirror, and the canopy bed (which I found after years of browsing Craigslist). Since I plan big purchases like that out in advance, I like to wait for an annual sale or Black Friday to make them.


Describe your home in 5 words or less:

Open, personal, vibrant, evolving

The post An Inspired & DIY-Filled Austin Loft appeared first on Camille Styles.