Interior designer Teresa Roche, along with homeowner Brie Williams, proves that living in a small space doesn’t mean sacrificing style. This charming South Carolina bungalow showcases eclectic art, plenty of patterns, and a consistent color palette that make the home feel spacious and visually appealing.
Roche, who is also an artist, gallery owner, and textile designer, carefully curated each space in her small house to incorporate everything she loves without overwhelming the eye. By layering art, pattern, and personality throughout, she demonstrates that maximalism can thrive even in limited square footage.
Here are 9 small-space decorating lessons we can learn from this creative professional:
1. Establish a cohesive color palette for the entire house. By painting all the walls in a neutral creamy white (Sherwin-Williams Alabaster), Roche creates a seamless flow that allows artwork and patterns to stand out.
2. Repeat accent colors throughout multiple rooms to create continuity and a harmonious transition from one space to the next.
3. Create a cohesive gallery wall by ensuring individual art pieces blend together visually through color coordination and frame selection.
4. Choose patterns that act as neutrals in an open floor plan. Roche uses classic patterns like an abstract basketweave wallpaper that make a statement while complementing other design elements.
5. Utilize the same pattern in both wallpaper and fabric to maintain a cohesive look without overwhelming the space.
By following these design tips, you can elevate your small space with art, pattern, and personality just like Teresa Roche has done in her inspiring bungalow.
To create a spacious and well-designed look in a small room, keep window treatments simple. Avoid heavy, elaborate treatments that can make the space feel cramped. Opt for bare windows to allow in maximum light and views, or choose simple options like woven Roman shades or white curtain panels for privacy and light control. Consistency in furniture choices can also enhance the room’s aesthetic. Select furniture with similar shapes or wood tones to create a cohesive look throughout the house. Mixing pieces from different time periods can add character and versatility to your decor. When decorating with wood furniture, consider small-scale options for occasional use to maximize functionality. Outdoor spaces should be furnished for comfort and style, just like indoor rooms. Utilize ample seating and lighting to create a welcoming outdoor living area. In a small house, drawing the eye upwards with art can enhance the feeling of brightness and airiness. Hang artwork strategically to emphasize the height of ceilings and create visual interest.
