How to Decorate a Row Home

Decorating a row home can be both challenging and rewarding. With its unique layout and limited space, a row home presents a distinct set of opportunities for creating a stylish and functional living space. In this article, we will explore the best tips and tricks for making the most of your row home’s architecture, layout, and design to create a beautiful and practical living space.

Row homes are known for their narrow layout and limited space, which can present challenges when it comes to decorating and furnishing. Understanding the specific layout and architectural features of a row home is crucial for maximizing the potential of each room. From choosing the right color scheme to selecting furniture that complements the space, there are numerous ways to enhance the natural flow and light of a row home.

In addition to making the most of limited space, decorating a row home also offers unique opportunities for adding character and charm. By incorporating clever organization solutions, creative decor choices, and inventive outdoor spaces, you can transform your row home into a stylish haven that reflects your personality while maintaining functionality. In the following sections, we will explore various aspects of decorating a row home to help you create a stylish and practical living space that suits your unique needs.

Understanding the Layout and Architecture of a Row Home

When it comes to decorating a row home, understanding the layout and architecture is essential for making the most of the limited space and unique features. Row homes are known for their narrow layout and often have multiple floors, which can present both challenges and opportunities when it comes to interior design. Here are some tips for maximizing the space and highlighting the architectural elements of a row home.

Utilize Vertical Space

One of the key challenges of decorating a row home is dealing with limited floor space. To counteract this, consider utilizing vertical space by incorporating tall bookshelves, hanging plants, or wall-mounted storage units. This not only helps create additional storage options but also draws the eye upward, creating an illusion of height in smaller rooms.



Highlight Architectural Features

Many row homes boast unique architectural features such as exposed brick walls, decorative moldings, or original hardwood floors. Emphasize these charming elements by choosing a color scheme that complements them, as well as ensuring that furniture placement does not obstruct or overshadow these features. Additionally, consider adding accent lighting to draw attention to these details and make them stand out.

Open Floor Plan Solutions

Some row homes may have an open floor plan on the main level, which presents its own set of design considerations. When working with an open layout in a row home, use area rugs or strategically placed furniture to define separate zones within the space. Additionally, consider using furniture that serves dual purposes-such as a dining table that can also function as a desk-to make the most of every inch in a multi-purpose area.

By understanding and embracing the layout and architectural features of a row home, you can transform its limitations into design opportunities while creating a stylish and functional living space that maximizes every square foot.

Choosing the Right Color Scheme

When it comes to decorating a row home, choosing the right color scheme is essential in enhancing the natural light and flow of the space. With limited space and unique features, selecting the perfect paint colors can make a significant impact on the overall feel of a row home.

Utilizing Light Colors to Maximize Natural Light

One of the key considerations when choosing a color scheme for a row home is maximizing natural light. Lighter colors such as whites, soft grays, and pastels can help to reflect light throughout the space, making it feel brighter and more open. These colors also have the added benefit of creating an airy and spacious atmosphere, which is essential in small row home spaces.

Creating Flow With Cohesive Color Schemes

In addition to maximizing natural light, it’s important to create a sense of flow throughout the various rooms in a row home. Choosing a cohesive color scheme that ties each room together can help create a seamless transition from one space to another. Consider using different shades of the same color or complementary colors to maintain continuity while still allowing each room to have its own unique personality.

Adding Accents for Personality

While light and cohesive colors are essential for enhancing natural light and flow in a row home, adding accents through bolder or brighter colors can inject personality into the space. Whether it’s through colorful accent walls, vibrant furniture pieces, or lively decor items, incorporating pops of color can liven up a room without overwhelming it. When done tastefully, these accents can add visual interest and charm to a row home without disrupting its overall flow.

By carefully selecting paint colors that maximize natural light, create flow between rooms, and add personality through accents, you can enhance the overall feel of your row home while making the most of its unique architecture and layout.

See also
A-Frame Home Interior Decorating

Furniture Selection and Arrangement

When it comes to decorating a row home, one of the biggest challenges is making the most of small rooms and narrow spaces. However, with the right furniture selection and arrangement, it is possible to create functional and appealing living spaces.

When choosing furniture for a row home, it’s important to prioritize pieces that are both stylish and space-saving. Look for multi-functional furniture that can serve dual purposes, such as a sleeper sofa that can also function as a guest bed or a coffee table with built-in storage. Additionally, consider opting for furniture with sleek designs and clean lines to create an illusion of open space in smaller rooms.

In terms of arrangement, think strategically about how each piece of furniture will fit within the limited space available. Consider using versatile storage solutions like floating shelves or wall-mounted cabinets to maximize floor space. Avoid cluttering the room with too many large pieces; instead, focus on creating an open flow by carefully arranging the furniture to allow for easy movement throughout the space.

To further make the most of small rooms and narrow spaces in a row home, consider using light-colored furniture that can help create an airy and spacious feel. Additionally, incorporating mirrors into your decor can help visually expand the room by reflecting natural light and giving the illusion of more space. By following these tips for furniture selection and arrangement, you can transform even the smallest rooms in your row home into stylish and functional living spaces.

Maximizing Storage

One of the biggest challenges of living in a row home is dealing with limited space, which makes maximizing storage essential. With some creativity and strategic planning, it’s possible to optimize every inch of available space in a row home. Here are some clever organization solutions for making the most of your storage options and keeping clutter at bay.



Firstly, consider investing in multi-functional furniture pieces that serve a dual purpose as storage solutions. For example, ottomans or coffee tables with hidden compartments can provide extra space for stashing away items such as blankets, books, or board games. Additionally, utilizing under-bed storage drawers or bed risers can help maximize space in the bedroom.

Secondly, make use of vertical storage to take advantage of wall space. Install shelving units or floating shelves to keep items off the floor and create a sense of openness in smaller rooms. You can also use hooks and hanging organizers on the back of doors or inside closets to store bags, accessories, or cleaning supplies.

Finally, consider custom storage solutions tailored to fit the unique layout of your row home. Built-in cabinets and shelving can make use of awkward nooks and crannies while maintaining a cohesive look throughout the home. By maximizing both visible and hidden storage options, you can keep your row home organized without sacrificing style.

Clever Organization SolutionsOptimizing Space
Multi-functional furniture piecesOttomans with hidden compartments
Vertical storageShelving units and floating shelves
Custom storage solutionsBuilt-in cabinets and shelving

Adding Personality Through Decor

When it comes to decorating a row home, adding personality through decor is key to creating a warm and inviting space. However, with limited square footage, it’s important to strike a balance between adding character and avoiding clutter.

One of the best ways to achieve this balance is by incorporating decorative elements that serve a dual purpose, such as storage ottomans or coffee tables with built-in shelving. These items not only add visual interest but also contribute to the overall functionality of the space.

In addition to multifunctional furniture, choosing decor pieces that reflect your personal style can go a long way in adding personality to a row home. Whether it’s unique artwork, vintage finds, or handmade textiles, incorporating pieces that speak to you will help create a space that feels truly yours. To avoid clutter, opt for a minimalist approach and ensure each decorative item serves a purpose or holds sentimental value.

Another way to infuse character and charm into a row home without overwhelming the space is by incorporating plants and greenery. From hanging planters on window sills to small potted plants on shelves, bringing the outdoors in can make a big impact without taking up precious floor space. Additionally, adding mirrors strategically throughout the home can help create the illusion of more space while reflecting natural light and visually expanding the room.

To tie everything together cohesively, consider choosing a color scheme and sticking to it throughout your decor choices. This will help create a cohesive look that feels intentional rather than haphazard. Finally, when decorating a row home, remember that less is often more – by being intentional with your decor choices and keeping clutter at bay, you can create an inviting and charming space that truly feels like home.

Decorating TipDescription
Choose multifunctional furnitureIncorporate items that serve as both decorative elements and provide additional storage or functionality.
Personalize with meaningful decorIncorporate artwork, textiles, or unique finds that reflect your personal style while avoiding excess clutter.
Bring in greeneryAdd plants and mirrors strategically throughout the home to infuse character while creating an illusion of more space.

Addressing Privacy and Natural Light

When decorating a row home, finding the right balance between privacy and natural light can be a challenge. As these homes often share walls with neighboring properties, it’s important to consider how to maintain privacy while still allowing in ample sunlight. Here are some creative solutions for addressing this common dilemma.

See also
How to Decorate the Home for Birthday

Window Treatments

One of the most effective ways to control privacy and natural light in a row home is through the use of window treatments. Consider installing blinds, shades, or curtains that can be easily adjusted to allow light in while maintaining your desired level of privacy.

Sheer curtains can provide a soft filter for natural light, while blackout curtains offer complete privacy when needed. For rooms where both privacy and natural light are essential, consider layering different types of window treatments for maximum versatility.

Frosted Glass

In areas where traditional window treatments are not practical, such as bathrooms or stairwells, frosted glass can be an excellent solution. Frosted glass allows natural light to filter through while obscuring the view from outside. This option provides a modern and stylish way to maintain privacy without sacrificing natural light.

Skylights and Light Tubes

For row homes with limited windows or interior rooms that lack direct sunlight, skylights and light tubes are fantastic options for bringing in more natural light without compromising privacy. These features can be strategically placed to maximize sunlight exposure while still preserving the occupants’ seclusion.

By considering these creative solutions for addressing privacy and natural light in a row home, you can create a comfortable and inviting living space that feels open and bright while also ensuring necessary levels of privacy.

Outdoor Spaces

When it comes to decorating a row home, outdoor spaces are often overlooked, but they can be valuable extensions of your living space. Whether you have a rooftop terrace, a cozy patio, or a small backyard, there are plenty of ways to make the most of these outdoor areas and create inviting and functional spaces for relaxation and entertainment.

For those lucky enough to have a rooftop terrace, consider creating multiple zones for different activities. You can designate one area for dining with a small bistro set or outdoor dining table and chairs, another area for lounging with comfortable seating and cushions, and perhaps even a small garden or potted plants to add greenery. Adding outdoor lighting such as string lights can also create ambiance and make the rooftop terrace usable after dark.

If your row home has a cozy patio or small backyard, consider adding vertical elements such as trellises or hanging planters to maximize the use of space. Use multifunctional furniture such as storage benches that also serve as seating or tables. Adding textiles like outdoor rugs, throw pillows, and curtains can soften the space and make it feel more inviting.

Finally, no matter what type of outdoor space you have in your row home, consider incorporating elements that reflect your personal style. Whether it’s through colorful planters, unique lighting fixtures, or decorative accents, adding personality through decor can elevate the outdoor space and make it feel like an extension of your indoor living area.

By following these tips on how to decorate a row home‘s outdoor spaces, you can create stylish and functional areas that enhance your overall living experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, decorating a row home presents its own set of challenges and opportunities. Understanding the layout and architecture of a row home is crucial in making the most out of limited space and unique features.

Choosing the right color scheme can enhance the natural light and flow of a row home, while furniture selection and arrangement are essential for maximizing small rooms and narrow spaces. Maximizing storage through clever organization solutions is also key for optimizing space in a row home.

Adding personality through decor is another important aspect of decorating a row home, as it helps to add character and charm while avoiding clutter. Balancing privacy with the desire for natural light in a row home can be achieved through creative solutions, and making the most of small outdoor areas, from rooftop terraces to cozy patios, adds value to your living space.

Ultimately, when it comes to how to decorate a row home, it’s important to remember that every design decision should prioritize not only style but also functionality. By considering these key takeaways and implementing them into your design process, you can create a stylish and functional row home that perfectly suits your needs and lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do You Style a Row Home?

Styling a row home involves maximizing the limited space by choosing furniture and decor that are both functional and visually appealing. Utilizing multipurpose items, maximizing natural light, and incorporating a mix of modern and traditional elements can help create a stylish row home.

What Is a Row House Style?

A row house style refers to a type of housing where individual homes are attached to one another in a continuous row, often sharing common walls on either side. This architectural style is popular in urban areas and can offer a mix of historic charm and modern conveniences.

What Is the Difference Between a Townhouse and a Row Home?

The main difference between a townhouse and a row home lies in their architectural structure and ownership. Townhouses can be individually owned or part of an HOA, while row homes typically share common ownership.

Townhouses may also have multiple stories, while row homes are often single or two-story structures with shared walls. Both offer residents the appeal of homeownership with less exterior maintenance.



Send this to a friend