Open Spaces Medium Storage Bins
Dotted Line™ Amy Shelving Unit
umbra Bellwood Tier Shelf
These days, tiny homes and Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are all the rage. And according to the experts, their popularity won't be declining anytime soon. For those who have decided to buy a petite pad for their backyard, it can be stressful narrowing down what furniture to squeeze into the small space. But don't fret—we have the inside scoop on how to make your tiny house feel like a mansion.
Whether you're searching for a detached home office to center your focus, a guest house that'll treat your visitors better than a pullout sofa, or a low-key perch to watch your kids while they play in the backyard—investing an ADU is a simple and easy way to upgrade your outdoor space.
Tiny homes are making a big statement as they can either serve as an extension of your home or a creative outlet for every design concept that didn't make it into your interior's layout. If you are looking to furnish your small outdoor dwelling, here are tips and product recommendations that will feel right at home on your shopping list.
Choose Multifunctional Furniture
“Choose furniture pieces that serve more than a single purpose," says Challie Stillman, Resource Furniture's Vice President of Sales and Design. "Whether you occupy a small studio apartment or a four-bedroom home, everyone can benefit from the added flexibility that multipurpose furniture provides.” You can shop for drop leaf tables, convertible chairs, or a Murphy bed to save space!
Mercury Row Prisco Murphy Bed
KOTPOP Folding Dinner Table
Latitude Run Stanton Convertible Chair
Enyopro Bistro Table Set
Incorporate Clever Storage
“Adopt creative storage solutions," Stillman advises. "Where floor space is at a premium, many ADU owners look for opportunities to configure built-in storage." When planning the renovations of your ADU, she suggests installing under-stair storage drawers or storage lofts above a freestanding closet. You can also add modular storage units that offer extra tabletop space or can slide under your bed with ease.
Design for Poolside Living
If your ADU plans revolve around going from the couch to the pool, your backyard will become the perfect getaway. Choose performance fabrics and outdoor furniture crafted to weather any season. You can even add pieces that work both indoors and outdoors like rugs or hammocks. “We love the focal point that our pools provide. They become a destination, a gathering place, as well as an oasis for cooling off (or heating up) depending on the season," Karen Larson, co-founder of Soake Pools, explains. Your home can work as a reflection of your pool! "Our pools become a piece of art within the landscape," says Larson.
SERENA & LILY La Jolla Basket
Outer Outdoor Armless Chair
Perigold Dash & Albert Rugs
Make Room for Appliances
Big Chill collaborated with Lily Pad Cottage to prove that your home can squeeze a generous-sized refrigerator. If you don't have time for renovations, you can add a dorm room refrigerator for your go-to snacks or find one that can fit within your ADU. Choose appliances that work for your lifestyle. While some may not make it to the kitchen counter in your main home, in your personal space you will definitely find use without hiding it away. This is a great option for tiny homes on wheels that need direct access to their favorite items on the road.
Bring in Color with Wallpapers
Figuring out the color story of your space can be tricky. After all, the wrong shade can throw off the space and make it feel even smaller! To avoid choosing a bad hue, stick to basic palettes. “Simple color schemes help open a space and make it feel larger," asserts Jennifer Matthews, creative director and co-founder of Tempaper. "The colors can be bold, but keeping the tones consistent throughout the room will help."
If you're someone who likes to switch things up, peel and stick wallpapers will allow you to renew your home regularly without feeling tied to one design.
York City Maps Wallpaper
Chasing Paper Fine Point Floral
Joss & Main Guyer Tulip Wallpaper
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