Maximizing Small Spaces: Design Tricks That Make a Big Impact

#Maximizing Small Spaces: Design Tricks That Make a Big Impact

Small space? Big potential.

Whether it’s a compact flat in London or a quirky Victorian with tight corners, thoughtful design can completely transform how you live. At Door5, we believe every square metre counts - and here’s how to make the most of it.

#1. Start With a Smart Layout

The foundation of any well-designed space is the layout.

Open up - where possible - consider merging your kitchen and living room to create a more spacious feel.

Instead of full walls, use visual dividers like open shelving, sliding screens, or subtle changes in flooring to define zones without cutting off light or flow.

#2. Built-In Is Your Best Friend

Custom-built furniture can save space and add style.

Think built-in banquettes for dining nooks, or bespoke wardrobes that use awkward corners.

Vertical storage like floor-to-ceiling shelving or integrated wall units draws the eye upward and maximizes every bit of space.

#3. Multi-Function Furniture

Every item should earn its keep in a small space.

Look for sofa beds, ottomans with storage, or nesting tables.

Fold-down desks or dining tables are perfect for hybrid living and working spaces.

#4. Light & Mirrors: Your Secret Weapons

Lighting and reflections can work wonders.

Large mirrors make spaces feel bigger and brighter by bouncing light around.

Keep curtains sheer and minimal to let in maximum daylight — especially important in older buildings with smaller windows.

#5. Declutter Like a Designer

Visual calm is key.

Stick to a light, neutral colour palette with occasional accents.

Choose furniture with hidden storage, and keep worktops, coffee tables, and open shelves clean and curated.

#6. Zone Without Walls

Create definition and purpose without boxing yourself in.

Use rugs, pendant lights, or furniture arrangement to define areas like living, dining, and working zones.

If needed, consider a half-wall, curtain, or sliding screen** to create privacy without breaking up the room.

#7. The Door5 Tip: Think Flow

One of our guiding design principles at Door5 is flow.

Design for how people move through the space.

Avoid dead ends or cluttered walkways - open paths make a room feel instantly larger and more breathable.

#Final Thoughts

Maximizing a small space isn’t about fitting more in — it’s about designing with intention.

Every inch should work hard, and every element should feel considered. If you’re planning a renovation, extension, or just need a smarter layout, Door5 is here to help you transform tight corners into something truly spacious.

Beyond Neutrals: How to Fall in Love with Bold Color & Pattern

Have you ever stared at your all-white room and thought, “Something’s missing…”? You’re not alone. After years of cool minimalism, homes everywhere are waking up to a world of jewel tones, lush prints, and fearless pattern play. Ready to dive in? Let’s go!

1. Why Ditch Beige (But Gently!)

Neutral palettes are cozy, sure—but they can also feel a little…safe. Imagine swapping that beige wall for a lush emerald backdrop, or trading in plain pillows for ones dripping with color. It’s like giving your room a fresh outfit: instantly more you.

2. Mix Patterns Like a Pro (No Stress Required)

Think of patterns as party guests—the bigger the guest (large-leaf wallpaper), the more you need smaller friends (tiny stripes) to keep the vibe balanced. Here’s the cheat-sheet:

• Big + Little = ❤️
  One grand print + two smaller motifs = instant harmony.

• Texture Is Your BFF
  Pair a sharp geometric rug with a plush velvet cushion. Your eye will thank you.

• Repeat Your Faves
  Pick two or three colors (teal, mustard, gray?) and let them pop up in every print.

Mixing patterns isn’t about rules—it’s about having fun!

3. Tips for the Color-Shy (Dip Your Toes First)

Not quite ready for a full-on color party? No worries. Start slow:

1. Accessory Love
   A jewel-tone throw or a poppy cushion can work wonders.

2. Tone-on-Tone Magic
   Choose one color family—say, sage to emerald—and layer light to dark. Soothing AND stylish.

3. Swatch Squad
   Order paint samples or wallpaper snippets. Live with them for a few days to see how they shift in daylight.

4. Natural Neutrals
   Wood, wicker, and greenery anchor bold accents, so nothing feels too wild.

5. Seasonal Refresh
   Bring out richer throws in autumn, brighter linens in spring. Your room evolves with you.

4. Ready to Get Started?

Bold color and pattern aren’t a design “trend”—they’re a way to make your home feel alive. Whether you go big with a jewel-toned wall or start with a single patterned pillow, every choice brings your space closer to feeling like you.

Tell us: What’s the first pop of color you’ll bring home? Drop a comment below, or tag us on Instagram with #MyMaximalistHome—we can’t wait to see!

P.S. Want more quick-win style tips? Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for fresh inspiration, straight to your inbox.

best flooring, hardwood vs. vinyl, and kitchen floors

Finding the Perfect Floor: My Journey & Tips for Your Home

I still remember the first time I had to choose flooring for a project. I thought it was going to be simple—just pick something that looks good, right? But as I started diving into the endless options, I realized how much flooring affects not just the aesthetics, but also the way a space feels, functions, and holds up over time.

If you’re here, chances are you’re going through the same dilemma: Which flooring should I choose? Is hardwood worth it? Should I go for tile or vinyl? What’s best for high-traffic areas?

Trust me, I’ve been there. So let’s go through this together, and by the end of this post, you’ll have a much clearer idea of what works best for your home—and avoid the mistakes I (and many others) have made.

Start With the Room, Not Just the Flooring Type

One of the biggest mistakes I see people make—myself included in my early days—is falling in love with a flooring type before thinking about where it’s going.

I’ve seen gorgeous hardwood floors get ruined in kitchens because they couldn’t handle spills and humidity. I’ve also watched people install cold ceramic tiles in bedrooms, only to regret it every morning when they stepped out of bed.

Think about how you use each space before making a decision:

👉 Living rooms & hallways: Need scratch-resistant and durable flooring that can handle foot traffic.

👉 Kitchens & bathrooms: Moisture is the enemy! You’ll need waterproof flooring like tile or luxury vinyl plank (LVP).

👉 Bedrooms: Comfort is key—carpet, engineered hardwood, or warm-toned laminate work best.

In my own home, I wanted something warm and inviting for the living room but also practical and easy to clean for the kitchen. That meant choosing two different flooring types rather than forcing one to work everywhere.

Hardwood Floors – Beautiful, But High Maintenance

There’s something about hardwood flooring that just feels luxurious. It’s timeless, adds warmth, and can increase your home’s resale value. I love how solid oak or walnut flooring brings character to a space.

But before you commit, here’s what I wish I had known earlier:

✅ Pros: Beautiful, can be refinished, increases property value.

❌ Cons: Scratches easily, sensitive to moisture, requires regular maintenance.

If you love the look but don’t want the hassle, I always recommend engineered hardwood. It’s more resistant to humidity and doesn’t expand and contract as much as solid wood.

Also—if you have pets or kids, be prepared for scratches and dents. A friend of mine installed dark hardwood floors, only to regret it after a year because they showed every single scratch and dust particle.

Pro tip: If you go with hardwood, choose lighter wood tones like oak or hickory to make scratches less visible!

Tile Flooring – Durable, But Can Be Cold

When it comes to kitchen and bathroom flooring, porcelain or ceramic tile is one of the most durable choices. I’ve worked on homes where marble-look porcelain tiles still looked brand new years later.

✅ Pros: Waterproof, easy to clean, nearly indestructible.

❌ Cons: Cold underfoot, grout requires maintenance.

However, I’ve made the mistake of installing tile in a bedroom, and let me tell you—it’s not fun stepping onto an ice-cold floor in winter. If you love the durability of tile but want warmth, consider:

• Adding rugs to soften the feel.

• Installing radiant heating beneath tiles (game-changer!).

• Choosing wood-look porcelain tile for the best of both worlds.

Vinyl & Laminate – Budget-Friendly & Low Maintenance

I used to think vinyl flooring was outdated. But modern luxury vinyl plank (LVP) has completely changed my mind. The first time I saw it installed, I was shocked at how much it looked like real wood.

✅ Pros: Waterproof, scratch-resistant, and affordable.

❌ Cons: Some cheaper versions can feel plasticky.

If you’re on a tight budget but want something that looks high-end, LVP is a fantastic choice. I’ve also recommended laminate flooring to clients who want something even cheaper, but keep in mind that laminate isn’t fully waterproof—so avoid it in bathrooms or kitchens.

Carpet – Cozy, But High Maintenance

There’s nothing like stepping onto the soft carpet in a bedroom—it instantly makes the space feel cozy. However, I always tell clients to think twice before installing it in high-traffic areas.

✅ Pros: Comfortable, warm, great for bedrooms.

❌ Cons: Hard to clean, traps dust and pet hair.

If you love the feel but hate the maintenance, consider carpet tiles. They’re easier to replace if one section gets stained!

Matching Flooring to Your Interior Style

Beyond function, your flooring should also match your design style:

Modern & Minimalist: Go for polished concrete, large-format tiles, or wide-plank vinyl.

Rustic & Farmhouse: Distressed wood or laminate works beautifully.

Classic & Luxury: Think dark-stained hardwood or marble-look tiles.

I’ve worked with clients who regretted their flooring choice because it didn’t match the rest of their home’s vibe—so always consider the bigger design picture!

Final Thoughts – What’s Best for You?

If you’re still unsure about which flooring to choose, here’s my best advice:

 Order samples and test them in your space.

Think about maintenance—do you want low upkeep or a statement piece?

If in doubt, mix materials! There’s no rule saying you can’t have tile in the kitchen and hardwood in the living room.

Flooring is one of the biggest design decisions you’ll make, and it’s worth taking your time to get it right. I’ve made mistakes in the past, but every one of them taught me something—and I hope this guide helps you avoid those same pitfalls.

If you have questions or need advice on choosing the right floor for your home, let me know—I’d love to help!