Modern Laneway Living with Smallworks

Modern Laneway Living with Smallworks

IN A CITY LIKE VANCOUVER...

square footage is precious! Which can make it hard to envision your dream home with a limited amount of space. Smallworks provides you with all the right tools to help bring your ideas to reality.

Design Tips for a Beautiful, Space-Savvy Laneway Home

  • Layer Your Lighting for Flexibility
    • Use a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting to make the space adaptable throughout the day.
    • Recessed lights or low-profile flush mounts are great for areas with lower ceilings.
    • Add under-cabinet lights in the kitchen or bathroom for functionality without taking up space.
  • Use Wall-Mounted Fixtures to Save Surface Space
    • Sconces, swing-arm lamps, or picture lights free up room on nightstands and side tables. Wall lighting adds visual interest and avoids floor clutter.
  • Choose Dimmable, Warm LED Fixtures
    • Dimmable LEDs allow you to control mood and energy use, perfect for multi-use spaces.
    • Stick to 2700K–3000K color temperature to keep the space feeling cozy and residential.
  • Opt for Multi-Functional Furniture
    • Go for sofas with built-in storage, nesting tables, or extendable dining tables.
    • Murphy beds or convertible sofa beds are ideal for guest accommodations in small spaces.
  • Keep Furniture Light and Low-Profile
    • Choose furniture with open legs or transparent materials (like glass or acrylic) to create a feeling of openness.
    • Avoid bulky or oversized pieces that visually shrink the room.
  • Maximize Vertical Space with Smart Storage & Lighting
    • Install floor-to-ceiling shelving or tall cabinets to draw the eye upward and increase storage.
    • Use pendant lights or slim track lighting to complement high shelves or open kitchens without crowding the ceiling.
  • Maintain Visual Continuity
    • Stick with a neutral color palette and repeat materials (like wood tones or matte black hardware) across furniture and fixtures. Consistent lighting styles help unify the space.

 

Bonus Tip: When working with a compact layout, lighting isn’t just for function—it’s a design tool. A well-placed statement pendant or architectural wall light can act as both art and illumination, replacing the need for extra décor.

From Planning and Permits to Finish Selection and Final Move In, Smallworks does it all. 

Maximizing a floorplan and conceptualizing living large in a small space can be confusing. Smallworks creates a home that works harder and smarter for your family and future. 

Like What You See?... Shop the Look!

Browse our online selection or contact us at sales@oplighing.com for a personalized lighting plan tailored to your renovation or new build. Whether you’re outfitting a laneway home or a large-scale development, Ocean Pacific Lighting brings modern solutions to every space.

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