Any small-space dweller will likely share the same set of design scenarios. Picking a sofa, securing a dining table, optimizing surrounding storage, and sourcing pieces to fit in a tiny place are at the top of the list.
For Los Angeles-based designer Stefani Stein, a narrow, 800-square-foot apartment project in West Hollywood offered a unique design challenge. With the move-in date non-negotiable for her busy clients, the ability to go "custom everything" was off the table. Instead, Stein sourced locally and scoured her favorite stores for fan favorites, applying foolproof design principles in a bid to dispel the small space myths.
Lonny
For interior designer Stefani Stein, this recently renovated Los Angeles abode — a four-bedroom, three-and-a-half bathroom house originally built in 1939 — posed a welcome challenge. With freshly painted white walls and gleaming hardwood floors, the home was essentially a 2400-square-foot blank slate just begging to be imbued with texture-rich details.
“Architecturally, everything was so new and crisp, the space was longing for a little imperfection,” says Stein, who was tasked with transforming the space by the home’s new owners, a young couple who recently relocated to L.A. from the Bay Area. "My challenge was to impart soul, add depth, and create an inviting atmosphere while working with the rather austere architectural foundation.”
The result is exactly what we'd expect from the accomplished interior designer: Vintage finds abound, natural textures impart a relaxed yet refined vibe, and works of art add welcome pops of color. But the standout feature, without a doubt, is a hand-troweled Roman clay accent wall that adds some much-needed depth to the living room.