The Art Of Small Space Design
- Janet Campbell
- Apr 10
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 5
The Art Of Small Space Design
TIPS FROM OUR TOWNSAN PROJECT
At LINEN + ORCHID, we believe that great design isn't about the size of the space. It's about how intentionally you use what you have. One of our recent full-service interior design projects in Cary, North Carolina perfectly illustrates this philosophy.
In the Townsan Project, I worked closely with a dedicated family. This small space design focused on updating their guest bathroom for their teenage son, who had clearly outgrown its dated design. We also transformed their primary bedroom and bath into a romantic, cozy retreat that was both functional and inviting.
Although the footprints of these spaces remained unchanged, the transformation was substantial. With thoughtful planning and a focus on significant details, we converted two outdated rooms into vibrant, personalized spaces. This shows that, with the right approach, smaller rooms can create a big impact.
“Our goal was to modernize each space, maximize every inch, and bring that everyday ‘I love being here’ feeling into their home—without needing to knock down a single wall.” – Janet Campbell
A Home Ready For Its Next Chapter
When this Cary family first approached me, they expressed their love for their home. However, it no longer served their expanding needs. Their teenage son had outgrown their cramped guest bath. The primary suite felt uninspired and lacked both warmth and functionality.
Their goal was clear: They wanted to update both areas with thoughtful functionality and style without knocking down walls or expanding their square footage. This inspired me deeply.
As with all LINEN + ORCHID full-service design projects, I started with an in-depth analysis of their lifestyle and aspirations. Understanding how they wanted to feel in their home guided me in developing a comprehensive design plan. The outcome was a modernized space that maximized every inch and infused their everyday life with that cherished feeling of “I love being here.”
Guest Bathroom: Modern Function for a Growing Son
We began with the guest bathroom, which hadn't seen an update in years. It didn't serve the needs or personality of a teenage boy. The space lacked adequate storage, had poor lighting, and did not reflect a more mature design.
The Transformation Goals:
Brighten the Space: We aimed to refresh the overall appearance.
Improve Storage: We focused on creating more storage while maintaining a sense of openness.
Upgrade Fixtures: We replaced fixtures to enhance daily use.
Design Highlights:
A modern wood vanity with matte black hardware offers clean lines and efficient storage.
The blue-gray textured tile wall behind the tub-shower combo adds depth and serves as a stunning backdrop.
Vertical striped wall coverings enhance height while ensuring the room feels inviting.
Floating wood shelves provide accessible storage for daily essentials.
The mosaic natural stone flooring introduces texture and visual interest without overwhelming the space.
As a designer, I enjoy integrating masculine and clean elements in a timeless way. This space now feels crisp, grown-up, and functional, achieving a balance that the family will appreciate.
Primary Bathroom: A Spa-Like Escape with Rich Character
The transformation of this bathroom stands out to me. My clients desired a space that was light, romantic, and refined. They also needed it to be storage-friendly and tailored to their lifestyle.
The Design Goals:
Smart Storage: We sought to maintain an open feel while adding storage.
Soft Color Palette: Our aim was to introduce serene, romantic colors.
Luxury Shower Experience: Upgrading the shower was crucial for indulgence.
Calm Retreat: We aimed to create a restorative space.
Design Highlights:
A custom double vanity in honey walnut, flanked by tall linen towers, offers ample storage in a compact layout.
Floral wallpaper, paired with brass fixtures and oval mirrors, softens the room with a vintage-modern touch.
A creamy vertical tile pattern on the shower walls, alongside brushed brass fixtures, adds warmth and timeless elegance.
Hexagonal marble floors introduce texture and movement while grounding the design.
Layered lighting—including sconces, natural light, and overhead fixtures—ensures this bathroom radiates warmth at all hours.
This space feels romantic, elevated, and embodies the thoughtful details the clients desired for their personal retreat.
Primary Bedroom: A Romantic & Restful Retreat
In the bedroom design, I leaned into the narrative that color, texture, and unique elements can tell.
The Design Goals:
Custom Built-In: Elevating storage with seamless built-in designs.
Dramatic Ceiling: Drawing the eye upward with a statement ceiling.
Moody Colors: Using bold colors to create a cozy atmosphere.
Functional Furnishings: Selecting furniture that enhances style and utility.
Designed Highlights:
The ceiling and drapery wall, wrapped in a lush botanical wallpaper, serve as a captivating focal point.
Deep green-blue walls envelop the room, creating a cocoon-like atmosphere ideal for relaxation.
Warm wood tones, layered bedding, and brass accents seamlessly connect the design to the adjacent bath.
A custom built-in wall combines drawers and media storage, beautifully integrated with wallpaper details for a cohesive finish.
This design proves that small does not mean simple, and cozy does not equate to cluttered. It illustrates how design can transform personal spaces into “Your Sanctuary Within.”
The Townsan Project was rewarding from start to finish. It not only transformed the family's home but encapsulated everything that LINEN + ORCHID stands for: creating spaces that are intentional, elevated, and deeply personal.
If your home feels outdated or no longer meets your needs, I’d be delighted to help. From a single room to an entire home, LINEN + ORCHID offers full-service interior design that brings you Your Sanctuary Within—beautifully, thoughtfully, and without stress.
Let’s begin the conversation.
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