When you move into a new home, each room proves to be a challenge. Some of your furniture settles in perfectly, and some of it will never feel at home there. Instead of being daunted by this challenge, Carey Karlan, founder of Last Detail Interior Design, approached her move to a small cottage built in 1926 as an opportunity to redefine her style.

As a large family living in a small space, Carey and her five children had to make a major adjustment, putting Carey’s stylistic flexibility to the test. Though she loves color, she opted for minimalism instead.

“In a small space, I prefer to live with less color, as it is more soothing,” Carey says. A simple design proved key to avoiding rooms that appeared busy.

The small cottage’s Cotswold architecture provides visual interest. Large portraits span across walls, and a few pops of color enliven the house. “I’m not afraid of a few bold elements,” Carey says. Using architecture and ambience as her guides, Carey was able to turn a small space into a bright home full of natural style.

Embrace the Mood
Discover the key to a simple design by focusing first on windows and lighting.
A room with few windows has a naturally heavier mood, which is why Carey selected a bright-orange hue for the walls of a windowless bathroom. In the cozy living room, however, she matched the meditative atmosphere with beige and natural wood.

Instead of fighting against your home’s characteristics, work with them to bring harmony. Lofted ceilings and large windows in the master suite give a naturally airy atmosphere. White paint and soft accent tones help to highlight these details and enhance the fresh feel of the space.

Follow Architectural Clues
In a small space, following the natural guide of architecture is key. In the kitchen, old ceiling beams nicely juxtapose the modern appliances, while glass walls give the conservatory a garden-like feel.

The home’s previous owners, however, chose to subdue the ceiling beams in the living room rather than highlight them. The pleasant outcome was a brighter, more open space. “Even though you listen to the architecture, don’t be a slave to it,” Carey says.

Remember to be Flexible
Colorful artwork and bold accents find their way into the cottage’s design, adding personal style to the home. Though Carey holds onto memories through portraits, her style is flexible. “Nothing is forever,” she says. With each home she designs for clients, she listens to the architecture and looks for the light. Every challenge
is simply a new opportunity to create balance and harmony.