Condo Design Tips

John Granen

Expanding the Kitchen

In the compact kitchen, a dark cork tile floor, light-colored walls, and a single storage wall help the space feel roomy. The stainless steel rolling table is from a restaurant supply store.

Adding Color to the Kitchen

Mahogany cabinetry and cork floor tiles add warmth to the kitchen. The "Leather Bound" ( Sherwin-Williams, 6118) wall is in the dining room; "Aspen Orange" (Ralph Lauren Paint, GH176) is in the wine storage area.

John Granen

Double-duty Buffet

In the dining room, a built-in wine cabinet and counter doubles as a buffet.

John Granen

Take advantage of the rectangle.

Design tip: Rectangular rooms are easier to live in and furnish than square rooms, according to condo owner Erik Barr. "Because their sides are unequal, rectangles give you a sense of movement, whereas squares are just static."

John Granen

Simplicity helps a small space.

Design tip: The counter and backsplash are the same material ― Jerusalem Gold limestone ― for an uncluttered look. A wide farmhouse sink is mounted under the counter for easy clean-up.

John Granen

Contrast enlivens an interior.

Design tip: In the sunroom, the floor, lower cabinetry, and seating anchor the space in darker hues while upper walls around the windows maximize the light. Pillows and art vases in blues and greens echo the color of the light. A mixture of soft and hard textures, from the deep shag rug to the sharp edges of the window seat and cabinets creates a balanced design.

Expanding the Kitchen

Adding Color to the Kitchen

Double-duty Buffet

Take advantage of the rectangle.

Simplicity helps a small space.

Contrast enlivens an interior.