Condos come in all shapes in Calgary—but not all sizes. Many condos are just small-to-medium-sized living spaces. This makes choosing the right furniture essential, as the pieces you pick can have a big impact on your space.
With any small space, you should pick pieces that serve more than 1 purpose with additional features like built-in storage. When you choose furnishings from Canadian manufacturers and local furniture makers, you can get all the features you want, maximizing functionality and getting amazing Canadian-made pieces.
Here are 5 essential furniture pieces for condos and small spaces:
- A versatile sofa
- A comfortable bed frame
- A dining table or bar chairs
- Smart storage solutions
- A good work-from-home desk
We know finding the right furnishings is not always easy. That is why we are always ready to help with a design and furnishing consultation. You can even bring us photos of your space, and we will help you find the pieces—or create custom pieces—that fit your exact needs and preferences.
The Versatile Sofa
Maximizing space is key when furnishing a smaller living room. The right sofa can make a big difference. We often recommend sectionals and sofabeds as champions of efficiency.
Sectionals can be customized to fit snugly into tricky layouts, making the most of that overlooked corner or hard-to-use wall. An L-shaped or modular sectional offers plenty of seating while saving space. Many sectionals even come with built-in storage options, ideal for keeping blankets, books, or other essentials nearby without adding clutter.
Sofabeds deliver dual-purpose functionality. By day, they are a comfortable and stylish sofa. By night, they transform into a bed for overnight guests, eliminating the need for a separate guest room. This is especially useful in condos, where every square foot counts.
A Comfortable Bed Frame
A sturdy bed frame is not merely about supporting your mattress—it is about supporting your well-being, too. A robust frame offers better foundation stability, which translates to a more comfortable and restful sleep. Plus, a high-quality, Canadian-made bed frame will stand the test of time, saving you from needing to replace it in the near future.
Choose Built-in Storage for Maximum Efficiency
When space feels tight in condos or smaller bedrooms, traditional storage solutions like dressers can quickly crowd the room. That is where bed frames with built-in storage come in handy.
Here are 2 common options:
- Pull-up beds: These frames feature a hidden compartment underneath the mattress. The entire bed lifts to reveal a generous storage area, perfect for keeping bulky items like extra bedding, seasonal clothing, or shoes neatly tucked away.
- Frames with drawers: Drawers can be seamlessly integrated into the base of your bed. Whether you stash books, linens, or even your winter wardrobe, this clever design lets you make full use of your bed’s footprint without taking up extra space.
Dining Table or Bar Chairs
When furnishing a condo or apartment, every choice matters. With limited space, the decision between a dining table and bar chairs often comes down to your layout and how you want to use your home. The good news? Both options can be perfect solutions depending on what your space offers and your lifestyle needs.
The Case for Bar Chairs
If your condo has a spacious kitchen counter or an island, bar chairs might be all you need. They are a simple, space-saving option that keeps the kitchen functional and stylish. Use the counter as your dining space while keeping an open feel in your home.
This setup is especially great for casual meals, quick breakfasts, or entertaining friends over drinks. Plus, bar chairs come in a variety of designs, so you can find the perfect match for your aesthetic.
The Dining Table Advantage
For those who have room for a dedicated dining area, a small dining table with chairs can create a cozy and elegant space for meals and gatherings. A table with a set of 4 chairs is ideal for smaller homes, offering enough seating without making the room feel overcrowded.
To maximize functionality in a compact space, consider expandable dining tables. Styles that include removable leaves or drop leaf designs provide the flexibility to accommodate more guests when needed, then return to a smaller footprint for daily use. These versatile tables make the most of your available space, allowing you to adapt your layout based on the occasion.
Look for streamlined designs with slim legs, central pedestals, or round tabletops to conserve space while adding charm and functionality to your dining setup.
Smart Storage Solutions
When designing your living room, storage is just as important as style. With thoughtful furniture choices, you can keep your space organized while showcasing your personal flair.
The Versatility of an Entertainment Centre
An entertainment centre is not just a home for your TV—it is a multifunctional decor piece. It anchors the room, lends style, and provides valuable storage space.
Beyond housing your TV, many entertainment centres come with shelves, drawers, or cabinets perfect for storing media equipment, cords, DVDs, or decorative touches like plants and framed photos. Choosing one that complements your furniture style can tie the room together while keeping clutter out of sight.
Wall-Mounted TV? No Problem!
If you prefer a minimalistic look with a wall-mounted TV, you still have plenty of storage options to ensure your living room stays neat and functional.
- Bookshelves: Tall or low-profile bookshelves are an excellent way to showcase books and decorative accents. Choose one with a mix of open shelving and closed compartments for a balanced display.
- Storage ottomans: A storage ottoman does double duty as a comfy footrest and a hidden storage compartment. Stash blankets, magazines, or even gaming consoles inside to keep everything tidy.
- Coffee tables with storage: Opt for a coffee table with built-in compartments or lift-top storage. Perfect for storing your favourite reads, remote controls, or other daily living essentials while keeping your tabletop clutter-free.
A Work-from-Home Desk
Desks and office furnishings can be key to productivity. But when you are spending hours at your desk, comfort is also crucial. An ergonomic setup promotes better posture, reduces fatigue, and enhances focus. Look for desks that offer enough legroom and pair them with an adjustable chair to align your body comfortably with your workspace.
If you are using a computer, consider a desk with a keyboard tray to keep your wrists at a natural angle. Additionally, ensure your screen is at eye level to avoid strain on your neck and shoulders.
Choosing the Right Size
- For small spaces: If you are working with limited space, opt for compact desks like corner units or floating wall-mounted options. These save floor space while providing a functional work surface. Look for desks with built-in storage to make the most of your setup.
- For larger spaces: If you have the room, a standard-sized desk or even an executive desk can elevate your home office. Bigger desks offer more surface area for multiple monitors, office supplies, or paperwork, giving you a well-organized and spacious workspace.
- Flexible solutions: If your workspace doubles as another room, consider a foldable or convertible desk. These designs allow you to pack up your office when you are not working, easily blending into your home’s decor.
Find Perfect Pieces for Your Condo at Birchwood Furniture
At Birchwood Furniture, Canadian-made doesn’t just mean locally made. It also means responsibly and sustainably sourced, made with great skill, care, and quality, and of course, made to meet the needs of our friends and neighbours.
The pieces we offer are not just suitable for all kinds of spaces in Calgary. They are high-quality, comfortable, heirloom pieces that can last for many years—even generations. Come visit our showroom and talk to us about your needs. We are happy to help you find the perfect pieces for your living space.
