As a first time home buyer, your TORONTO LOFT may seem short on space, but if your big on ideas... organization and ingenuity are key. Similar to the way a large space can be arranged to seem more intimate, a small space can be designed to appear more spacious. It's easy to do - you just have to be creative in your use of paint, furniture and lighting.

Use lighter shades - Decorate with Paint

Light and airy colours such as cream, white, icy blue, pale green, and yellow can help make a small room appear larger. Another way to blend elements of a room together is through the use of monochromatic paint colours and fabrics.

Eliminate obstructions

The farther you can see through a space, the larger and more open it will seem. Eliminate clutter and avoid over-decorating with too many trinkets and wall hangings. Arrange furnishings to open up floor space and avoid blocking views of windows and doors. When selecting furniture, choose benches, ottomans, armless chairs and sofas to keep space open. A flat screen television is far less intrusive on living spaces that are used for relaxing as well as entertaining.

You can also add the illusion of space with the sparkle and reflection of mirrors. In addition to strategically positioned wall-mounted mirrors, consider setting an oversized mirror on the floor and leaning it against a wall. A mirrored or glass tabletop is also a fun way to add some shine and depth to your room. A glass coffee table for example, practically disappears within a room.

Make it bright

Uncovering windows and adding additional light fixtures can eliminate dark shadows. Open up a space by hanging track lighting to accentuate art, or add bookshelf lights to highlight a cabinet. You'll find a variety of lighting fixture designs available, so your options are virtually limitless.

Optimize your space

For efficient small space living, consider these tips and remember to keep the space in mind at all times. By utilizing multipurpose items such as futons, compact kitchen sets and storage trunks, what was once a small and cramped space will seem larger, more organized and more inviting.