BOSTON - eTradeWire -- Lynn Bentley, President of Knobull reported, "Decorating a cramped space seem tricky, but done correctly, the room can look and feel larger than you ever imagined. However, creating the perfect layout ultimately comes down to choosing lighter colors and simpler pieces designed for tight quarters."

Before making any decisions, get a feel for the space. Where is the best place for the bed? Maybe the corner so you can maximize your floorplan? Where do you want the couch?

When decorating small spaces, opt for designs with certain characteristics. When it comes to color, paler hues such as white, cream and gray are ideal for refracting light and make the room seem more spacious. Furniture shape can also make a big difference.

Determining a few essential items is the first step to planning your layout. Think about what pieces are most important for your space to function effectively, then build from there.

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Seating is probably the most important factor when selecting furniture for a small space. There are a vast assortment of small sofas that work well in tight quarters. Many smaller homes completely lack a designated dining room, meaning that your kitchen or living room must do double duty. Make the most of this with furniture that has a minimal footprint but maximum functionality.

Low-profile beds make great focal points in small rooms. If possible, place beds in front of windows so the two features don't compete for attention. Adequate storage is also an essential in a tiny bedroom. You may also want to explore storage beds, which have spacious drawers for your wardrobe and linens.

Bentley concluded, "If you have an extra room, you may need it to serve more than one purpose. Why not create an office that also serves as a guest room? Put your work space in an unused corner or try mounting a deep, waist-high shelf in an empty closet for a workspace you can hide behind closed doors. Include small trundle to offer overnight guests both comfy seating and a place to rest."