The Space Project

How to make those little changes that will make your room more you.

byKaren Fong February 2017

How to make those little changes that will make your room more you.

Display bags you don’t use very often as a break from too many books. If you plan to spend more time on the chair than in bed, make sure it’s comfortable!

As much as we love our stuff, there comes a point when it begins to feel like you have too much. Some girls like to try and keep clutter to a minimum regularly, while others prefer to do it every couple of months (or more), but let’s admit it: all of us wish we could transform that purge into something a bit prettier.

With Chinese New Year around the corner, now is the perfect time to get your space a little more Instaworthy. Design consultant Sio Lim, who runs her own business Slim Studio out of her own home, shares some tips.

Antiques and souvenirs make great bookends.

Reading Area

“I find lying in bed for too long unhealthy, so I created a small space with a chair (comfortable chairs are very important!) where I can read. You don’t have to go out and get a fancy chair; just find something that’s already in the house which people won’t miss. It’s also where my bookshelf is, but I use it to put bags as well, which makes it more interesting. Mix display items that are both pretty (I like to collect items when I travel) and also functional (like a mirror). A plant or two can also help with dust.”

A picture in the right place can hide the mess that wires often cause. A raised laptop is good for the table and your posture, since you won’t have to strain your neck to look down at the screen.

Workspace/Desk

“My desk is very important because I work from home. Organisation is key – we might be in the digital age but when you have paper around, it can still cause major clutter, so as old school as it might be, I think folders and binders are a must. Spread out some display items, trinkets and a good lamp, so things don’t look too boring. I try to keep my desk 30 to 50 percent clear of stuff. For me, the worst thing is wiring – try to hide wires behind something nice like a photo or a picture frame. A laptop stand is also good, as it keeps everything from getting too hot.”

A fan looks pretty, but is also great if you don’t have air conditioning 24/7.

Window/Display Areas

“If you like collecting things when you travel (like me), it’s good to spread out your purchases so things don’t look too visually cluttered. It also helps to make your whole room look pretty instead of just one area. It’s nice to come home to a place that looks visually inviting.”

Vanity Table

“The best thing you can do for your makeup and jewellery area is compartmentalise. For jewellery, display them the way they’re meant to be worn.

If all your accessories are in one place, it makes it easier to match them.

The rod prevents my necklaces from tangling and because they’re hanging, it helps me visualise what to wear them with. I also keep my shoes in the same area beneath the table to help me accessorise as well.”