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LIVING 36 MIAMI LIVING A small space offers a big opportunity to make a personal design statement. Although many people love the benefits of living in small spaces, they often think their decorating options are limited by the size of their space – whether it's an urban condo in the heart of the city, or a vacation property they only use part of the year. But when it comes to designing a small space to fit your personality, the choices are endless. From classic and refined to relaxed and fun, it's easy to reflect your individual style and still have enough space to live freely and comfortably. Here are some design tips to get you started. Flood the eyes with light Create an airy backdrop for your furniture pieces by using wall mirrors to add more light and the illusion of more space. Indoor plants or decorative stems can also add an airy look and provide a sense of lightness to a room. They also help you bring nature in to soften your space. Rethink seating Instead of one large, oversized sofa that dominates the living room, create a cozy conversation area using a more streamlined sofa or loveseat, paired with two smaller chairs, or pair two chairs with a "chofa" (a sofa with a reversible chaise ottoman/ cushion), such as La-Z-Boy's Uptown. A swivel chair with a tight back that sits close to the wall can also save space while providing an inviting place to sit. Pair it with a matching ottoman to create even more options or a functioning alternative to a coffee table. Use right-sized proportions Look for furniture with sleek, simple lines. An armless design, such as La-Z-Boy's Hipster Stationary Chair, has a beautiful, low-profile wood base that tracks up the back. Sized just right for smaller spaces or for purchasing in pairs, it's part of the Urban Attitudes collection, a line of furniture that's big on style and perfectly proportioned for smaller spaces. Make storage do double-duty Choose furniture pieces with hidden storage options that make the most of your space while making a style statement. How about an ottoman in a gorgeous fabric or leather with a storage compartment, plus a flip-top lid that doubles as a serving tray for drinks and snacks? Or a bench seat with a lid that opens up to reveal a trunk-sized storage space? Add interesting accents A fun, playful accent chair stands out in any sized room. Used alone or paired with a sofa, a side chair in a vibrant fabric is like adding the perfect piece of jewelry to a beautiful outfit. Another way to give the room a lift: solid fabric on the chair, with a bold print fabric on the seat or pillow, with an accent rug to add a pop of color. It can also be an easy way to add textures and patterns to complement any space. Customization details Little details stand out even more in small spaces. Furniture can be ordered with customized details such as nail head trim, topstitching, optional wood or metal cap finishes and literally hundreds of fabric choices in beautiful textures, rich colors and bold patterns to create a designer look. Seek free advice from in-store designers If you are not sure how to design your space, La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries offer free in-home design services. A design professional can come to your home and help turn your dreams into reality, from finding the perfect color and fabrics to designing your entire space with the right accessories to complete any design style. ML Live Small. Think Big. Designing for small spaces Words by Lauren D'Addario For information, visit www.la-z-boy.com.