What’s a den, you ask? And how does one decorate a den? Well, a den is different from a living room, it’s smaller in size, and doesn’t need to include a couch and television. A den can function as an office, or a room for hobbies, a den can really be whatever you make of it. However, when it comes to decorating, there are a few dos and don’ts to abide by. Read on to learn the styling secrets for decorating a condo den.
Don’t Shy Away From Colour
Condos these days come with builder’s white walls, offering little ambiance, and most condo owners shy away from painting those walls, under the belief that white walls help make a space feel larger. But designers know the personality and style that colour can bestow upon a space can far outweigh the illusion of square footage and ceiling height.
Do Customize With Shelving
Walls with shelving, filled with family photos and treasures from travels, can help create that cozy feeling of a den, wrapping you in a big familial hug. If you have the budget, built-in shelving can be a costly upgrade, but they offer a high ROI, and add extra storage too, which is always an asset in small condos. Just be sure to include open and closed shelving to offer versatility for displaying and storing items.
Don’t Forget About Accessories
Creating an inviting den that reflects who you are is all about the details. Incorporating accessories that speak to your interests, and reflect your style, will help to cement it as your own. Coffee tables are great areas to arrange accessories, along with fireplace mantels, bookshelves and side tables. And of course, a sofa topped with colourful pillows or your favourite prints will really amp up the style of your condo den. See more of this chic bachelorette pad.
Do Fill Your Den with Plants
Have you ever been in a space that felt fresh and uplifting, and you couldn’t quite pinpoint why? We’ll bet any amount of money that space had a plant in it. Not only do plants add a pop of vibrant colour to a room, but their very presence brings life to a home. Not to mention, there are many houseplants that help purify the air!
Don’t Get Stuck on Neutrals
It’s easy to fall into the trap of neutrals, but all of a sudden you’ll have a den, void of personality. Keep this styling secret in mind: for every four neutral items, select on colourful, or unusual piece. Alternatively, you can also style a neutral room with colourful accessories. This way, you’ll achieve a healthy balance of cool and calming.
Don’t Hide Your Hobbies
The beauty of having a den versus a traditional living room is the versatility of the room. It doesn’t need to have a television, it should be a reflection of your hobbies and interests. A den can be a gym, a music room, or even a yoga zone. Whoever you are, whatever your interests, let your den be a space to welcome and reflect that!
Don’t Settle for Basic Lighting
When moving into a new build condo, you’re lucky if it comes with overhead lighting, but that doesn’t mean you should leave it as is. Swap your builder basic flushmount for a light fixture with style, and make sure the bulbs cast a warm glow. This will ensure your den feels inviting and cozy, not blindingly bright.
Do Fill Your Walls with Artwork and Photos
Casual rooms, like a family den, are the ideal space to take risks and have fun with artwork. A gallery wall of collected pieces can offer a bohemian vibe, or a grid of black and white family photos can give a chic, orderly look. The options are endless, but art is a must! For more inspiration, be sure to check out more of this zen Vancouver condo.
Don’t Sleep on Getting a Sectional
When it comes to creating a cozy den, a sectional is a must! Sectionals maximize small spaces, and their low profile helps to maintain open visual planes. And it’s common knowledge that naps on sectionals are 100 times more cozy than naps on a sofa.
Do Select Multipurpose Pieces
Think creative when selecting furniture to help optimize your small condo. A den can double as an office (with a small desk in a corner) or a guest room (by selecting a pullout sofa), or in this case, a “media unit” in the form of a dresser can provide storage for off-season clothing and accessories.
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