Smart designs for smaller spaces at home

23 Apr 2026

If you’ve got a smaller home, petite room, odd nook or tiny bathroom that you’re just not sure what to do with, then we’ve got you. These designs make the most of smaller areas in terms of both style and practicality, so you can transform even the tiniest of spaces into something you love and make the most of every corner in your home.

Entryways and walls

Project by Vanessa Nouwens, image by Melanie Jenkins.

This design is simple and great for an entryway, hallway, or really any blank wall in a living room or bedroom. All you need is a console table and mirror or artwork, plus any other accessories and décor. This wall is painted in Resene Pearl Lusta, console in Halcyon and floor stained in Resene Colorwood Whitewash.

Dining spaces

Adding vertical details such as wall panelling or floor to ceiling drapes can make a room feel taller, which is particularly great in smaller spaces where your floor space is limited. Here, a look-a-like timber slat wall, using Resene Artiface Wallpaper Collection M802-17, elongates this dining space making it feel more spacious while also adding some detail and interest.

Powder rooms

Basin from Athena Bathrooms, tapware from Voda Plumbingware. Project by Megan Harrison Turner, image by Bryce Carleton.

Even tiny powder rooms or bathrooms can have a big impact. This bathroom has a hand painted mural on the top half of the wall in Resene Element, Atmosphere and Moonbeam, but you could also use your favourite Resene wallpaper design. The lower half of the wall is painted in the complementary Black White, and floor in Resene Colorwood Shade.

Cosy nooks

Chair from Matisse, art by Sean Beldon, lamp from ECC. Project by Amber Armitage, image by Wendy Fenwick.

Nothing makes a reading nook cosier than a dark, cocooning shade, and all you need to finish it off is an inviting chair and some well-placed décor. This wall is painted in Resene Rebel, a warm earthy brown. If you’re getting into darker shades, try Olive Green, Blue Bark or Aubergine.

Patios and decks

Project by Vanessa Nouwens, image by Melanie Jenkins.

Add a pop of colour and character to your deck or outdoor space for an instant lift. This bench seat painted in Resene Frozen takes up little room compared to other furniture or chairs while still providing adequate seating. The beachy blue tones pair well with the warm, sand-toned stain of Resene Woodsman Heartwood and weatherboards in Half Black White.

Published: 23 Apr 2026