As urban living continues to expand in cities around the world, more and more people are choosing to move into smaller condos to afford their inner-city dreams. According to the Canadian financial website WOWA, the sale of new apartments in Calgary has risen sharply as young people want easy-to-maintain homes that are close to Downtown parks, restaurants, and entertainment venues. But with smaller spaces comes the issue of designing interiors that are practical yet comfortable and stylishly chic. Young Calgarians are also very aware of their environmental responsibilities, and an era of recycling and reusing is currently in full swing.
Let’s explore how preloved furniture can help answer a multitude of considerations when optimizing space in one of Calgary’s compact condominiums.
Maximising Light and Space with Upcycled Scandinavian Minimalism
Scandinavian design, known for its simplicity and functionality, is perfect for small spaces. This style emphasizes clean lines, a neutral palette, and natural light, creating a sense of openness and calm. Danish-style furniture from the 1960s can still be found on auction sites and local house clearance sales. The pieces were extremely well made and have stood the test of time, so even if the price tags are on the high side, these are investment items that will be with you for many years.
Wooden-framed sofas with a Scandi look are often smaller by design and can be fitted into tighter spaces. Teak-framed armchairs in this style usually have exquisitely shaped features and can be moved around an apartment for use in most rooms. The seat pads can be recovered to suit changing trends over the coming years, too. Natural elements, such as teak, wool, and linen fabrics, add warmth to interiors without a feeling of clutter – essential in a compact condo.
Multifunctional Furniture for Versatile Living
Small spaces require furniture that can adapt to different needs. Multifunctional pieces are a must-have for maximizing usability without compromising on style. Modular systems include furniture that can be rearranged or expanded with changing needs, offering flexibility for various lifestyles. While there are modern equivalents available in stores, you can also pick up 1970’s versions at vintage stores or auctions. Danish design never goes out of style, and the old pieces were built to last, so this furniture can live on through many generations.
The Ladderax shelving unit is a sought-after design classic, with shelves, drawers, and cupboards that fit together in endless configurations. These pieces can be used as work areas, TV stands, plant and book shelving, and even room dividers. Often made of beautiful elm or teak timber, any imperfections can be sanded away or simply enjoyed as part of the ‘vintage character’.
More Storage for Smaller Kitchens
A kitchen needs to be functional no matter how small the space. Carefully designed cabinetry can maximize all parts of the kitchen, including corners and even the under-cabinet kickboard space, but upcycling can offer additional storage, too. Make use of the full room height by adding shelving made from recycled timber and brackets up to the ceiling. A quirky mixture of old hooks can be utilized to hang colanders, mugs, and tea towels, and an antique clothes airer that lowers from the ceiling is ideal for holding pans, pots, and drying herbs.
Kitchens can handle some chaos; they are busy rooms that are often the lively heart of the home, so don’t be afraid to have jars out on display and within easy reach, as long as the worktops are clear.
Kitchen tables that fold flat against the wall are ideal for cozy meals for two. To reuse a cheap second-hand table, remove the legs and fix it to the wall with hinges and a prop to stabilize it when open. Dining tables with folding sections are also often available in thrift stores. These are perfect for smaller homes, and they can be pulled out and opened fully when cooking for visiting friends.
Restful Bedrooms With an Upcycled Element
When it comes to the bedroom, a brand-new mattress is essential, but the frame can be upcycled, as can the storage underneath. A slightly raised bed can provide a range of opportunities, so adding inches to the legs can make a real difference.
Pull-out boxes are ideal for shoes, winter sweaters, and even coats – things that take up a lot of room elsewhere. Headboards can be made from old shelving cut to size with space for books, toiletries, and photos – make sure to utilize the full width of the room, too. Hand-me-down blanket boxes make useful seats and look refreshed when repainted; plus, they offer yet another storage solution.
While designing the bedroom, be sure not to overcrowd the bed. Leave space on either side and above to retain a feeling of calm and breathability. When adding shelving, ensure there is sufficient headroom when sitting up in the bed so that getting in and out is easy. Pay attention to these factors to aid peaceful slumber in your new bedroom.
Bringing Nature Indoors
Biophilic design, which emphasizes the connection to nature, is a trend that continues to grow in popularity. In Calgary’s urban environment, adding greenery not only enhances aesthetics but also improves indoor air quality and helps homeowners feel more comfortable in smaller spaces.
Using materials such as bamboo, wicker, and rattan brings an organic feel to interiors. Coffee tables, baskets, and mirrors incorporate these materials, which can often be picked up secondhand.
Finally, add a variety of greenery, from hanging plants to small potted herbs. Indoor gardens are an excellent way to introduce plant life for those with limited floor space—a smaller version of a living wall.
Final Thoughts
Designing small spaces in Calgary involves a blend of practicality and creativity. By incorporating some vintage elements, a home can be created that is not only functional but also reflects personal style while being environmentally considerate. From embracing natural materials and multifunctional furniture to integrating items that have been tweaked by hand to suit the space, there are endless possibilities to transform a small apartment into a chic and comfortable haven.
Whether you’re a long-time resident or a newcomer to Calgary, these interior design trends will help you make the most of condo living in the downtown area. There’s more to learn about Calgary and living with the altitude in this area – so check out these helpful tips and tricks.
