Photographer: Christina Wedge
Briana and Buzz, a creative couple living in a Brooklyn loft, transformed their challenging first-floor bedroom and second-floor balcony workspace into functional and stylish areas. Their bedroom, measuring 10 by 11 feet, featured a towering 22-foot ceiling that posed decorating challenges, while the workspace was cramped and lacked character.
To enhance their bedroom, they drew inspiration from Palm Springs, California, known for its mid-century modern style and vibrant sunsets. They selected low-profile furniture including a platform bed, walnut Danish modern nightstands, and 1950s wire chairs with bold orange upholstery. Despite these choices, the high ceiling made the space feel disconnected.
A designer friend suggested anchoring the room with a large piece of art above the bed, which would visually balance the ceiling height. They chose a print by Jonathan Adler, echoing Palm Springs' sunset colors, complemented by tangerine striped bedding and the chair upholstery.
To maintain uncluttered nightstands, especially since they needed space to work from bed, Briana and Buzz installed mid-century modern sconces above the nightstands. This kept the surfaces free for books and magazines while providing adequate lighting. The sconces plug into outlets, allowing them to be taken with them if they move.
For a practical workspace, Briana found C-tables that fit well in small spaces, providing a surface for laptop use while also serving as storage. They aimed to create an inviting focal point in the bedroom by suspending a photograph Buzz took of a palm tree within the window frame, which tied back to their Palm Springs inspiration.
With the bedroom completed, the couple turned their attention to the loft, which would serve as Buzz's workstation while also accommodating up to three guests with air mattresses. Briana introduced a silver mid-century modern pattern wallpaper, suited for renters, to add character.
Buzz centered an industrial-modern desk in the 8-by-10-foot room without pushing it against a wall, creating an illusion of spaciousness. The desk, equipped with integrated wire management and hidden shelving, reduces clutter while keeping essential items within reach. These smart choices have maximized their living space, providing them with both comfort and functionality.
After successfully making over their small spaces, the couple feels inspired to continue their journey into small space decorating, with thoughts of tackling their bathrooms next.
