The Tiny Living Dilemma

I’ve lived in a tiny New York City apartment for four years, and if I had to guess, I’d say it’s no bigger than 400 square feet. Sure, small-space living comes with its own unique set of challenges, but as a home editor who’s constantly inspired by clever homeowners and renters, I’ve come to appreciate the design hurdles.

For example, I have a gorgeous, spacious IKEA chest that now houses my flatware, purses, and jewelry box all in one space. The windowsills in my living room double as at-home libraries, but my book display encourages me to read more. These design challenges allow me to try new things and think outside the box – the results usually end up better than ever expected. It also instilled in me an everlasting hunt to find products or furniture that make homes feel bigger, with bonus points if they’re multi-functional.

So, it’s no surprise that my small-space sensors rang when I spotted the West Elm mirrored coffee table in Katie Rogers’ bohemian apartment in Harlem. Although her apartment is only 50 square feet bigger than mine, it seems much larger because of her use of clever furniture. Mirrors make spaces feel bigger regardless of their form because of their reflective nature. And speaking of being reflective, they also make rooms feel brighter when sunlight bounces off them.

The Magic of Mirrored Furniture

In Katie’s living room, her coffee table almost looks invisible, making the room feel larger. Katie’s version has other benefits too. “I love my mirrored coffee table, which has a hidden drawer and acts as my bar cart,” she said at the time of the tour. Even though Katie’s exact coffee table is sold out, it’s still inspired me to hunt for my own. I haven’t found the right size to fit my space, but it’s good to know that several are out there for small-space dwellers.

The mirrored coffee table isn’t the only cool element in Katie’s Harlem apartment. If you want to see more, visit the full home tour. But let’s focus back on the magic of mirrored furniture and how it can make a small space feel bigger.

Reflecting the Illusion of Space

Mirrors work their design wizardry by creating the illusion of depth and space. When placed strategically, they can reflect light and bounce it around the room, making it feel more open and airy. This is especially helpful in cramped quarters where natural light may be limited.

According to one design expert, “Mirrors can make a room appear larger by reflecting light and creating the illusion of depth. Placing a mirror across from a window will bounce the natural light around the room, making it feel more open and spacious.”

But it’s not just about placement – the type of mirror you choose can also make a big difference. Mirrored furniture, like the coffee table in Katie’s apartment, tends to work particularly well in small spaces. Because the reflective surface is integrated into the piece itself, it creates an almost invisible effect, making the room feel larger without taking up additional visual space.

Choosing the Right Mirrored Furniture

When it comes to selecting the perfect mirrored furniture for your small space, there are a few key factors to consider:

1. Size and Proportion: The piece should be in scale with the room, neither overpowering nor dwarfed by the surroundings. Measure carefully and choose a size that fits harmoniously.

2. Functionality: Look for mirrored furniture with built-in storage or other multi-purpose features. This helps maximize the use of your limited square footage.

3. Style and Finish: Mirrored furniture comes in a variety of styles, from classic and glamorous to modern and minimalist. Choose a finish that complements the overall aesthetic of your space.

4. Placement: Consider where you’ll position the mirrored piece. Placing it across from a window or opposite a wall can enhance the reflective effect and create the illusion of depth.

Remember, the goal is to find mirrored furniture that not only makes your small space feel bigger, but also fits your personal style and serves a practical purpose. It’s all about striking the right balance.

Mixing Mirrored Pieces

Once you’ve found the perfect mirrored centerpiece, it’s time to start layering in other reflective elements. According to design experts, strategically placing mirrors around the room can amplify the illusion of space even further.

Try hanging a large mirror on the wall opposite a window to bounce natural light deep into the room. Or, place a smaller mirror on an adjacent wall to create the effect of a “window” where there isn’t one. Mirrored side tables, shelves, or even decorative accents can all contribute to the illusion of openness.

The key is to avoid creating a “hall of mirrors” effect, which can be disorienting. Instead, aim for a cohesive, intentional placement that enhances the overall design of the space.

Bringing It All Together

Small-space living may come with its challenges, but with a little creativity and the right furniture choices, you can make your home feel larger than life. Mirrored pieces, like the coffee table that inspired me, are a game-changer for maximizing square footage and brightening up a room.

As you embark on your own small-space transformation, remember to keep an eye out for multi-functional, reflective furniture that fits your style. And don’t be afraid to experiment with strategic mirror placement to amplify the illusion of space.

At the end of the day, the home you love starts here – whether it’s a cozy, 400-square-foot apartment or a sprawling mansion. With the right design tricks up your sleeve, you can make any space feel like a luxurious oasis.

So, what are you waiting for? Head over to Sofa Spectacular and start your small-space makeover journey with the power of mirrored furniture.