900 Sq Feet

Who needs over 1000 feet of living space? Every inch of this 900 sq foot bungalow in santa monica is stunning! A renovation to the small space included; painting floors and walls, new kitchen and bath, new windows and doors, an additional 250 ft addition to the back of the home, acting as guest bedroom and bath. Also new patio and backyard landscape as the couple was able to afford.

The kitchen, living room and dinning room were all connected when the walls dividing up the small rooms were torn down, creating one Great Room. The living space allows open living spaces without barriers between loungers, chefs or dinners alike. Also people enjoying the outdoor patio will feel apart of the free space with the new sliding doors to open the home indoor and outdoors as one.

The floors were painted with a high gloss deep hue to add modern shine to the bungalow.

New oversize windows and skylights invite in the sunshine. Walls are painted a light-bouncing white, while white ceramic subway tiles brighten the kitchen and baths.

For contrast, the wooden floors are stained in a custom mix of ebony and dark walnut shades; the high-gloss polyurethane top coat reflects even more light.

Get the look: Wall paint is Decorator’s White eggshell with semi-gloss trim throughout (benjaminmoore.com for stores) Kitchen tile is ceramic 3- by 6-inch in white K101 (daltile.com for stores)

Sunset Magazine's Small-home secrets

1. Paint all the rooms the same light hue. Match flooring and other shared surfaces for a seamless look.

2. Build in storage cupboards with doors and invest in a closet-organizing system―“worth the splurge to keep the house neat,” says Hart.

3. Install inexpensive wall pegs to make cleanup a snap and keep frequently used items at the ready.

4. Choose easy-stow guest seats for living areas.

5. Create several places in the backyard to lounge and entertain―especially if you live in a relatively warm area.

6. Reevaluate your belongings every few months. Donate, recycle, or discard what’s not needed.