Make the Most of Your Small Space!

Whether you are moving into a dorm, downsizing, or have a small room that is causing you difficulty - it is all about making the most of your space. Play with height, utilize the storage underneath furniture, add shelves, and storage bins. Don't forget to use the space behind your door for more storage! I have a small bedroom myself so I understand the struggle of feeling confined. I wanted to share my design tips for maximizing your storage in small spaces.

1. Bed Risers - if you think about it, a king size bed takes up 42 square feet of space. So why wouldn't you use that space wisely? I purchased bed risers from Target which raised my bed 6" more. The additional height helped me tremendously because I was able to fit large storage containers under my bed with my winter clothes and shoes. You can also add bins that roll or find organizers that are specifically made for under the bed. 2. Maximize your Closet - Before purchasing large pieces of furniture, make sure you get the most out of your closet space. Try adding shelves or drawers to your closet for more storage. Closet organizers also make a difference and are available at Target, Bed Bath & Beyond, and The Container Store.

(Photo cred: hgtvremodel.com)

3. Frame your Bed - Make your bed a statement by framing it with bookcases or cubbies. I personally like to mix and match open and closed storage together. This way pretty items are on display and the rest is hidden.

(Photo Cred: thisoldhouse.com)

4. Doors - I am a woman with a lot of shoes - aren't we all? Since my bedroom is very small, I have to get creative with storage. I added the behind-door shoe organize that hangs behind my closet door to store a good amount of shoes. It's not the prettiest but its functional. Plus, it is behind doors so it is not visible when my closet is door is shut. I love the fact that is an easy display of what shoes I have readily available. 5. Multi-Functional - I love pieces that have multiple uses! I added a storage bench at the end of my bed for extra seating and for maximum storage!

(Photo Cred: involvingcolor.com)

6. Hook It Up - Hooks make my life so much easier. I have them hidden everwhere. I like to use the adhesive hooks that don't ruin your walls. I have hook on the front of my closet door so I can hang my outfit up at night so it's ready to slap on when I wake up. I also have hooks behind my bathroom door to hold my robe and towel when I come out of the shower.

(Photo Cred: thrifyandchic.com)

7. Analyze What You Have - Before I switch my closet over for winter or summer, I always go through what I have. If I haven't worn it at all that season, I will donate or sell my clothes. It feels great to get a good cleaning in before the season starts. Plus, it helps your closets from busting!

Being organized in a small space is very important. You don't want your things to consume your space. Next time you are ready to take on the challenge of redoing your room, remember my tips! What tip would benefit your space the most? Please share! I would love to hear from you.

Online Portfolio

Hi everyone, My "portfolio" section in my blog is still under construction. However, those of you who are interested, I have my online portfolio on Facebook. Check out "Designs by Amanda" on Facebook, don't forget to "like" my page! I post live updates of all my current projects I am working on. Stay updated for the big reveal on upcoming projects and follow!

Please click the link below to direct you to my Online Portfolio

Designs By Amanda 

Tickled Pink

I am not the girl who is typically drawn to pink but something about the summer has gotten me tickled pink! Pink has always been a hot color but more so this season. I have been seeing shades of pink all over - especially in fashion and design lately. Pink doesn't have to be just for a little girls room, pink can be sophisticated in the right shade. Watermelon pink is such a refreshing shade, especially for summer! The combination of red and pink is very bold yet provides warmth and excitement to any space or outfit. Another variation of this striking combination is pink and orange or pink and yellow. For a more dramatic look, black and pink creates a stark look. My personal favorite color combination is navy and pink. Something about that color combo is so striking!

If you are afraid of using pink in your home or wardrobe, try going more subdued. I like pairing khaki and coral together. It's the perfect color combination for summer. Another neutral color scheme that I find appealing is taupe and pink, or use coral as a substitute. Beiges and brown undertones will balance the bold hue.

Show your Stripes

Three cheers for the red, white, and blue!!! Summer is finally here and it is time to get your backyard ready to entertain. I love outdoor parties, especially when it comes to the decorating. There is something so magical about the 4th of July. The smell of the barbecue and the rest of the food cooking. Spending time outside with great friends and family as the sun goes down and the fireflies start to come out. The smoke from the fire pit that makes your hair and clothes smell for days. The fireworks shoot high into the sky and burst so loud you can feel it go through your body.

Get in the holiday spirit and decorate your home and backyard for the 4th of July. Switching out pillows for the season is an easy way to switch up the scenery in your home and add some holiday cheer. I love nautical stripes and playful pops of red. For a beachy feel, add wicker accents such as an end table or a round wicker cocktail ottoman that you can put a tray on for entertaining your guests.

For outdoors, play around with accessories such as outdoor pillows, table runners, placemats, outdoor rugs, dishware, lights/candles, and center pieces. If you're really feeling festive, you can even have fun while baking by adding some fun decorative treats to the table.

Here are some ideas for your indoor and outdoor spaces. Have fun this summer and enjoy!

Hollywood Glam

What's black, white and glamorous all over? Trick question - any upholstered piece with a black and white pattern can create a Hollywood Glam feeling. Black and white colored fabrics are a staple when it comes to a woman's wardrobe. The black and white color combination is so simple and classic, yet elegant. So why not use that color combination in your home? Imagine a luxurious vanity with mirrored drawers and a mirror above which is illuminated all the way around - ah! It screams "GLAMOUR!"

Hold on, I'm ready for my close up!

Not so fast! If you want to dazzle your home with a dose of Hollywood Glamour, here are a few tips. For fabric, mix and match a few patterned pieces with some solid pieces to balance your room. For example, designate the largest piece in your room to be a solid fabric with two armchairs that are in a bold black and white pattern. For a more modern look, try using a black and white chevron. If you prefer more traditional, opt to use a damask print or a stripe. If you have a wild side, there is nothing better than animal print! Try using either zebra or cowhide print.

Now lets talk about accessories! As you would dress up your little black dress with sparkling jewelry - I would definitely add sparkling silver pieces to your room. Whether it is a table lamp with a mercury glass base or a decorative cocktail table - think of the accessories as the jewelry of your space.

Here are some inspiration images that I adore!