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photography by  MATT WIER  text by  SHANI SILVER

One of our favorite ways to make a space with minimal square footage feel bigger is to bring in the light. This before & after moment is a perfect example of that strategy, and shows us a space that, though tiny, feels inviting and comfortable, not cramped. The Santa Barbara bungalow, built in the 1880’s, is 230 square feet of sunny perfection designed by it’s lucky occupant, interior designer Lauren Henno. We chatted with Lauren for her thoughts on redesigning her space, plus a little advice for anyone ready to take on something similar. We know where you should start your Pinterest board, that’s for sure!

TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR STYLE. WHAT OVERALL AESTHETIC WERE YOU GOING FOR IN YOUR SPACE? If family or friends are with me when this question is asked, there is always a chuckle with the response, “WHITE,” and as you can see, I of course love a neutral palette. I wanted to create a space that reflected my light and airy character, as well as my personal style which is best described as a fusion of organic boheme, delicate modernism, and a touch of minimalism.

WHAT BROUGHT ON THIS REDESIGN? DID YOU INTEND TO MAKE THESE CHANGES WHEN YOU MOVED IN? I newly moved into the bungalow with no furniture and a fresh vision! I started from scratch with the intention of creating a functional and enjoyable living environment, within a small space.

before

BED Urban Outfitters HEADBOARD Custom FUR PELT (at end of bed) An Icelandic sheep pelt COWHIDE RUG World Market SISAL RUG West Elm SHAMS Hale Mercantile

WHAT WERE YOUR MAIN GOALS FOR THIS SPACE? To create a tranquil environment, where I could come home after a long day, and instantly feel relaxed. I also wanted to create a space that stimulated my creativity, and reflected my personality.

PILLOW The face of the pillow is a Thai silk scarf from Thailand. The tassels were handmade from natural un-dyed wool in Iceland. COVERLETS Pottery Barn

DESK West Elm PAINTING Painted by Me 🙂 Lauren Henno. Painted with Acrylic WHITE WOVEN BASKET Custom Made and woven in Senegal  LUCITE CHAIR AmazonHANGING SHELL PIECE Santa Ynez Valley Home Design & Consign VASE West Elm

before

BEDSIDE LAMP Andrew Neyer BEDSITE TABLE Pottery BarnMIRRORS Custom POUF West Elm ANTLERS Santa Ynez Valley Home Design & Consign

ANY ADVICE FOR READERS HOPING TO CREATE A MONOCHROMATIC WHITE SPACE FOR THEMSELVES? Be sure to use different materials and textures such as: linens, silks, natural woods, acrylic, stone, fur, hides, etc.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MEMORY OF THIS REDESIGN? The entire process was an absolute blast. There is nothing like seeing an original vision come to life! Though if I am to pick one, it would be the first night I moved in when all I had was my mattress and my dresser (which at the time was covered in blue paint). I remember falling asleep feeling so grateful and excited, knowing I had found a place that was truly magical!

before

DRESSER I found this at a consignment store covered in blue paint! I had it stripped than custom stained. 

INDOOR PLANTER

 Custom made of acrylic, and filled with white sand. MIRRORS custom LANTERNSGlobal Views

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MEMORY OF THIS REDESIGN? The entire process was an absolute blast. There is nothing like seeing an original vision come to life! Though if I am to pick one, it would be the first night I moved in when all I had was my mattress and my dresser (which at the time was covered in blue paint). I remember falling asleep feeling so grateful and excited, knowing I had found a place that was truly magical!

WHAT IS THE BEST REACTION YOU’VE HEARD TO YOUR SPACE SO FAR? When a guy walked in, and wanted to buy all my furniture! I figured I must be doing something right, lol!

before

ANTLERS Santa Ynez Valley Home Design & Consign GEOMETRIC VASE Global Views

ANY ADVICE FOR OUR READERS ON MAKING A SMALL SPACE WORK? Keep things simple yet unique! Mixing in pieces that are one of a kind will give the space personality, and having fewer items will allow it to remain spacious. Also, using a neutral palette will make the space appear larger.