As fans of good design will know, what makes design successful is not just how it looks – how it functions is just as important. This is especially the case when you’re working with a compact space, or have a budget to stick to – and let’s face it, who doesn’t?
Whether you’re just starting out in your renting or homeownership journey or you’re an empty nester looking to downsize, it can be a conundrum choosing furniture and accessories for a compact home – how do you select pieces that work best for the space without compromising on style? Going down the minimalist route is a great idea – opting for well-designed options that suit the space you’re in, without overwhelming it.
The Warehouse’s Urban Utility range is the perfect solution. Designed and curated especially for the New Zealand market, the pieces have an edgy, urban vibe, with a focus on timber looks contrasted with black accents, cool prints, and colour blocking. The silhouettes are sleek and refined and the proportions are perfect for modern spaces.
Interior designer Gretchen Lowe has styled this contemporary gem of a two-bedroom home at 9 Lappington Road, Otara, Manukau City with the Urban Utility collection for a chic, minimalist style.
Start your property search
Gretchen says a simple, pared-back look that’s clean and uncluttered can feel like a relaxing and welcoming sanctuary. “A few well-chosen pieces can make a big impact. The key is finding a balance between function and style. You still want your home to feel cozy and welcoming,” she says.
If you love the minimalist look, choose furniture that fits your space comfortably without commandeering it. “Opt for a comfortable compact sofa, such as the Living & Co Milan 2.5-seater sofa from The Warehouse, rather than a large sectional sofa that's going to take up your whole room,” she says.
“A really sleek, round dining table is also great for smaller spaces,” says Gretchen, who has chosen to style this home with the Living & Co Shoreditch dining table from The Warehouse.
Another space-saving suggestion is choosing furniture that’s multi-use – perhaps moving the dining table aside to function as a side table. “Or, if you’ve got people coming around, you could use it as a cocktail prep area.”
For compact bedrooms, opt for tall and narrow drawers or beds with storage in the base. Proportions are important – don’t be afraid to take your measuring tape shopping and then use masking tape to plot out potential furniture dimensions at home.
“Furniture with built-in, or hidden, storage is also a game-changer. A coffee table or ottoman with hidden storage are great options. Mess creates mess. If you start a pile of mail, you end up dumping more and more, but if you just keep things neatly tucked away in drawers or a sideboard, it's easier to keep everything tidy,” Gretchen explains.
The Living & Co Roma entertainment unit from The Warehouse (not shown here) allows you to keep your living areas free of clutter without sacrificing the minimal style you're trying to achieve. It can hold everything from dinnerware, glassware, electronics, spare cords and the mail, things you want to clear away but keep accessible.
As for colour schemes in a minimalist home, Gretchen recommends a mainly neutral colour palette. “Add the odd pop of colour or texture for interest but for a pared-back look aim for mainly white, with accents of wood, or black, and concrete. Beautiful green plants also work well in a minimalistic house.”
“Minimalism isn’t necessarily about having less, it's about making space for what you truly love and letting those items shine.”
Get inspired by visiting thewarehouse.co.nz or check out the range at The Warehouse near you.
