Designing Small Spaces: Tips and Strategies from Amy Wynn Dumire's Trading Spaces

amy wynn trading spaces

is a popular home renovation show that has helped homeowners transform their small spaces into functional and beautiful living areas. Amy Wynn Dumire, the interior designer and host of the show, has shared her expertise and techniques for maximizing small spaces. Here are some tips and strategies from Amy Wynn's Trading Spaces that can help you design and organize your own small space

Understand the 60:40 Rule

According to Amy Wynn, one of the most effective ways to design a small space is to allocate 60% of the room for essential functions and 40% for aesthetics. This means that you should prioritize functional elements like furniture and storage over decorative elements like art and accessories. When deciding what to prioritize, consider the room's purpose and the people who will be using it.

For example, if you're designing a home office, you may want to allocate more space for a desk and chair than for a bookshelf or art piece. By following the 60:40 rule, you can create a functional and efficient space that meets the needs of all users.

This is a crucial distinction, especially in small spaces where square footage is limited. By focusing on the essentials first, you can avoid clutter and create a more peaceful environment.

Use Vertical Space

One of the most common mistakes people make when designing small spaces is to neglect vertical space. Amy Wynn suggests making the most of your walls by using wall-mounted shelves, storage units, and decorative elements. This can help to maximize storage and create the illusion of more space.

For example, a floor-to-ceiling shelving unit can provide ample storage for books, linens, and other household items. You can also use wall-mounted baskets or containers to stash items like toys, cleaning supplies, or kitchen utensils.

Another benefit of using vertical space is that it can help to draw the eye upwards, making the room feel taller and more spacious. By making the most of your walls, you can create a more open and airy feel in even the smallest of spaces.

Clutter is a major contributor to the feeling of claustrophobia that can come with small spaces. Amy Wynn suggests using storage units and organizational tools to keep clutter under control. By containing clutter in designated spaces, you can maintain a sense of calm and order.

Some examples of parceling up clutter include using storage ottomans, baskets, or containers for items like throw blankets, toys, or linens. You can also use dish racks and utensil organizers to keep kitchen items tidy.

Remember, the key to controlling clutter is to create designated spaces for each item. By doing so, you can maintain a sense of order and make the most of your small space.

Clutter-Busting Ideas	Benefits
Use storage bins for toys, linens, and household items	Free up floor space, keeps items out of sight, promotes organization
Install a pegboard in your entryway	Provides a central location for keys, hooks, and other essential items, keeps clutter at bay
Utilize under-bed storage for linens and out-of-season items	Increases storage capacity, keeps clutter hidden, makes the most of under-bed space

Mix and Match Furniture

Amy Wynn often encourages homeowners to think outside the box when it comes to furniture. By mixing and matching furniture pieces of different shapes, sizes, and styles, you can create a more interesting and unique space.

For example, you could pair a modern sofa with a vintage armchair, or combine a glass coffee table with a wooden side table. Mixing and matching furniture can help to break up a room and create visual interest.

In small spaces, it's often more challenging to find furniture that fits perfectly. By mixing and matching furniture, you can create a space that feels more dynamic and eclectic.

Consider Light Colors

Amy Wynn advises homeowners to use light colors on walls, floors, and ceilings to create a sense of brightness and airiness in small spaces. Light colors can help reflect light and make a room feel more spacious.

Some popular light colors for small spaces include white, cream, pale gray, and beige. You can also use light-colored rugs and upholstery to add visual interest to a room.

Keep in mind that light colors can also be used to create the illusion of more space. A light-colored room can make a small space feel larger, more open, and more welcoming.