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First of all, decisions must be made. What shall I keep? My feelings about this are: 1. Keep the things you need 2. Keep the things that give you pleasure. Try to get rid of ALL the rest. All the books you don't love, all the bric-a-brac that doesn't please your eye, all the odd furniture that will only clutter your new small space. Above all .. don't take it with you to decide "at some later date." That date won't come. So, out with the clothes that have not fit since the Reagan era and anything else that you haven't looked at in years.
If you are moving into one square room (an efficiency or a studio) try to "knock off" the four corners by placing pieces of furniture (or a standing screen) kitty-corner across them which takes the curse off the boxy look of the space. Window treatment should be decided on by determining: 1. Do I need privacy 2. Do I want color, interest or background? 3. Is this a formal or informal space? 4. Do I want maximum light? You will need a comfortable bed .. twin size leaves more space and can serve as a day bed. A "pull out" bed is too much work! You need at least two sturdy, comfortable armchairs. Matching wing chairs would be fabulous, especially on either side of a table for eating and working. A few stackable chairs for extra guests could be stored in the closet. Arrange furnishings around the outer perimeters of your room to avoid a crowded look and to allow for dancing! An armoire which could hold a t.v., linens, store stuff or stand in as an office is a grand idea. Matching wood tones gives a nice uniform look to your space but the eclectic style is fine too and interesting. Plenty of good lighting for reading, for atmosphere, and to chase the blues away come February. Beloved articles, photographs, and art can be show-cased together as a focal point. Get a nice bulletin board to keep yourself organized and a good sized calendar. Color that makes you happy. If you can't change the walls then use color in other ways and repeat the color or colors often in linens, pillows, towels etc. to create style. Add some life: a cat, a fish, plants. Be vigilant about tossing out unwanted items that are not needed or that do not add beauty to your own cozy place, your new Home Sweet Home. August 4,2006
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