CasaSugar

Coveted Crib: A Paper-Perfect Studio Loft

CasaSugar — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 15:00:50 -0800

If I had my druthers, I probably wouldn't choose to live in a studio. But if I had to, I cannot imagine a more perfect space than this studio loft in Lägenhet, Stockholm (which is for sale). With tall ceilings, a bed and extra storage are tucked up high, making for a true living room. The apartment's bright white walls and beautiful natural light expand the space, while a select few gorgeously wallpapered walls give it depth and serious style. The kitchen has streamlined modern white cabinetry and one of my favorite elements: concrete countertops. The bathroom is complete with a towel warmer (woot!), a washer/dryer, and a sharp zebrawood sink basin. And better yet, it boasts what every girl dreams of: a walk-in closet. Take the full tour when you read more.

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How-To: Decorate a Dual-Purpose Space

CasaSugar — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 12:00:55 -0700

Having lived in a studio in the past, I've experienced first-hand the trials and tribulations of trying to make one room play two roles. I have many friends living tiny apartments who try to cram the furniture meant for both a living room and a bedroom into the same room, and let me tell you, none have succeeded. It's not only studio dwellers that encounter these issues, though. Sometimes a home office needs to double as a living room, or a bedroom as a workout room. If you're in the same boat, I have a few tips for you.

Cool Idea: Real Size Roomscape Curtain

CasaSugar — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 06:15:07 -0700

When you're living in a studio, or otherwise short on space, sometimes you must resort to trompe-l'œil effects to fool people into thinking your pad is bigger than it is. But, mirrored sliding doors on your closet are simply too '80s to even consider. Dutch artist Bauke Knottnerus knows what I mean. Knottnerus's Real Size Roomscape Curtain gives the illusion of more space, as it's printed with a photograph of a living room. Can't afford a sofa? Not enough space for a bulky TV? You've got one instantly with this curtain! And, like any old drape, it does a fantastic job of concealing your junk. I think this product is just a prototype for now, but I could totally see it in Urban Outfitters, couldn't you? What do you think?

Room Therapy: Any Suggestions For My New Studio?

CasaSugar — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 06:15:09 -0800

Dear CasaSugar,

My application for my new apartment was approved, a down payment made, and now the apartment is officially all mine. I'm so excited, and can't wait to move in. My biggest concern was finding an affordable studio with as much space as the one I currently live in, and after much searching I found it. There is a large main room, which is the bedroom and living area. The kitchen is in a separate space, as well as the walk-in closet area, and the bathroom. I'd love it if other CasaSugar readers could offer me suggestions on maximizing the space, window treatments, and decor for my apartment.

Thanks!

Tiaramh

To leave a suggestion for Tiara, and to hear my advice, read more.

Hi Tiaramh,

Congrats on the new apartment! It's always exciting when you find the perfect spot, and I'm sure your cute pooch Coco is going to love your pad as well. My suggestion is to check out my posts on studios. There, you'll find petite furniture suggestions, featured projects and ideas from other studio dwellers, and smart ways to maximize your space.

Anyone else have suggestions for Taramh?

Congrats on your new flat!
Casa

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Casa Quickie: Studio Resourcefulness

CasaSugar — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 15:00:57 -0800

TeamSugar member CityGal is throwing a holiday party in her tiny New York City studio, which has French doors dividing her "bedroom" (only room for a bed) from her minuscule living room/oven-less kitchen. In other words, her party will be a little bit like the Flight of the Conchords episode when Jemaine throws a party in his new apartment: the empty cleaning closet.

No one's gonna rain on Citygal's party, though! She's created room for her guests by flipping her mattress on its end, which she'll conceal behind a curtain. This opens up the bedroom, making more space for the party-goers. You gotta do what you gotta do! If her trick's not for you, try my primer on maximizing space for a party.
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Coveted Crib: Amy Butler's Studio

CasaSugar — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 07:00:03 -0800

While I've been a fan of Amy Butler's fabric, products, and patterns for some time, now I'm also in love with her studio space. Take the tour with me, and you'll be wishing for an Ohio fabric studio as well! Source

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Cool Idea: Fabric Panels Frame a Bed

CasaSugar — Fri, 16 May 2008 07:45:33 -0700

Natalie of Technology Drive hung fabric panels adjacent to her bedside table "to enclose the bed area so it didn't feel like it was floating between the living room door and the open closet/hall." This small change successfully delineated bed, giving it a cozy, canopy-bed-like feeling, but is actually a really simple project. It's also a really attractive update; the cherry-blossom pattern of her fabric panel brings an interesting visual element to an otherwise simple room. This would be a great solution for those of you working on decorating a studio. To see the fabric panels from another perspective, read more.

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Cool Idea: A Bookshelf and a Bench

CasaSugar — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 13:00:57 -0700

This Fishbol Bookseat Bench (no price available) is a great solution for small-space living. While the product may still be in the concept stage, I think it would be a fun idea for all of those studio dwellers who are looking for cool, stylish ways to integrate furniture, accessories, and beloved books.

What do you think? Are you a fan, or does this bench have a little too much going on?

Steal of the Day: Ballard Designs Nicobar Folding Tray Table

CasaSugar — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 15:00:04 -0800

Even if you don't have time to turn a TV cabinet into a bar, you can still be a hotshot bartender with the Ballard Designs Nicobar Folding Tray Table ($149, reduced from $249). Wait, did I just say hotshot and Ballard Designs in the same sentence? Yes, this tray table is actually pretty darn cool. It unfolds easily, and has a removable tray top with a designated locale for your bottles and glassware. Whip out your mixology skills when your friends are over, and then store it when it's not in use. That way, when your parents stop by unexpectedly, they won't know you're such a booze hound. Perfect for studio living, too.

Ask Casa: How to Decorate a Studio (Part 2)

CasaSugar — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 16:00:20 -0800

Yesterday I answered the first half of LorenAshley's question about living in a studio. To see the second half of my advice for her, just read more.

Living Area:
You'll want to go for a coffee table that moonlights as storage. Crate & Barrel has a great selection of storage ottomans which will do the trick, including the Stow Leather Storage Ottoman which flips to reveal a traytop. Pair that with a super comfortable loveseat or small couch, perhaps a sleeper for guests, and throw in an armchair or some poufs and you'll be good to go on seating. If you can afford it, mount a flat screen TV on the wall. If not, and you do want one prop your regular TV on a small dresser that can store your belongings. Or, put it onto a sideboard with wheels that you can roll into your closet when not in use.

Dining Table:
Then, think about getting a simple table, like the West Elm Parsons Desk which can be used as a dining table, a desk, a craft table, and even a side table. Add some Bamboo Folding Chairs, which can be slid under the bed if necessary. Or you might even consider a dining table that folds into a briefcase!

Resources:
Check out Angel's post on Multipurpose Furniture for a Studio, and my post on small, 74" or less sofas. APT and Tiny Living are also great resources for modern small space furnishings.

I hope that helps! Feel free to ask more questions, if need be. And anyone else who has lived in a studio, please chime in with advice.

Cheers,
Casa

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