A Designer Celebrates a Small Space By Maximizing Its Potential

Making an entrance.

“When you walk through the front door, I wanted something that would immediately catch the eye as well as serve a practical purpose,” shares interior designer Julia Newman Pedraza. She started with a custom entry table to play off the wood elements in the home. The space was further enhanced with a chandelier to accentuate the unique moldings on the ceiling.

Storage and a seating area were created with a long built-in bench, custom cushions in neutral tones and throw pillows to give an inviting touch. Behind the bench, wallcovering in soft blue with a subtle texture gives the appearance of a textile. Three antique Italian paintings—part of the client’s private collection—and Roman shades finish the look.

The powder room makes more of a statement. “These small spaces need a big personality to compete,” says Julia. “As guests use this room, I wanted to make it unique and inviting.”

After she found wallpaper with a foil sheen, everything else—like the gold accents—fell into place. “Even with the door only slightly ajar, this room catches the eye,” she says.