Thinking about
furniture from a new perspective — more practical, functional, and light — can completely transform the
utilization of projects. In this sense, it is worth paying special attention to pieces that, although essential, often occupy more space than they should. By replacing them with versatile and smart versions, it is possible to
gain precious meters without giving up comfort or style.
Projeto Beta Arquitetura. (Juliana Colodeti, do MCA Estúdio/CASACOR)
In
compact apartments or houses with integrated plans, every centimeter makes a difference. The good news is that contemporary design has invested in solutions that combine
aesthetics, functionality, and space optimization. Below are ideas for furniture that can be replaced with more practical alternatives — and how this impacts daily life!
Conventional cabinets for shelves and hanging shelves
In the
kitchen, upper cabinets are almost a rule — but not always the best choice! In small spaces, they can create a
stuffiness sensation and visually weigh down the area. An effective alternative is to invest in
open shelves or hanging shelves, which make the projects lighter and more organized at the same time.
Melina Romano - Casa Alma Duratex. Projeto da CASACOR São Paulo 2021. (MCA Estúdio/CASACOR)
In addition to facilitating access to daily use items, these solutions allow you to highlight utensils and dishes that are part of the
decor. It is possible to combine
shelves with support bars or hooks, creating a dynamic storage system with a
more fluid visual.
Retractable sofa for sofa-bed or lightweight line models
The retractable sofa is often a favorite for those seeking comfort, but its bulk can compromise circulation, especially in
integrated living rooms. In this scenario, the
sofa-bed emerges as an excellent option. It elegantly assumes
two functions and works well for guests or moments of relaxation.
Projeto de 021 Arquitetura. (Produção Lu Algarthe | Fotos: Juliano Colodeti, do MCA Estúdio/Divulgação)
Another possibility is to replace the retractable with a model of
straight lines and narrow arms, which occupies less space without losing sophistication. Sofas with visible feet and
light coverings also contribute to a
sense of spaciousness in the projects.
Traditional rack for multifunctional panel
If the television is still the focal point of the living room, the
traditional rack can be replaced with a
smarter structure. A
custom carpentry panel — with shelves, niches, and even built-in cabinets — allows
for organizing and decorating at the same time, keeping everything in place without occupying usable floor space.
Projeto de Carolina Gava. (Monica Assan/CASACOR)
These panels can also
integrate projects, such as the union between the living room and home office, or gain
extra functions with drawers and built-in countertops. The secret lies in finding a design that meets the real needs of the space and matches the style of the house.
Nightstand for shelves or floating niches
In bedrooms, the nightstand can be replaced with more creative and lighter alternatives.
Floating shelves,
compact side tables, or even
niches built into the headboard are solutions that maintain functionality and still help compose the décor with personality.
Projeto de Manuela Santos. (Leonardo Costa/Divulgação)
In addition to saving space, these alternative pieces of furniture facilitate
cleaning and create a
more modern visual. Another tip is to use
multifunctional furniture, such as stools that serve as support or trunks that store and decorate at the same time.
Center table for poufs or mobile side tables
The
center table can be charming, but is not always practical — especially in small living rooms! A good idea to replace it is to use
upholstered poufs, which serve both as support and
extra seating, or
mobile side tables, which can be moved as needed.
Projeto de Paula Neder. (MCA Estúdio/Divulgação)
This type of choice guarantees
more flexibility in the use of space, ideal for those who enjoy hosting or need adaptable environments. Poufs with internal storage space are a
functional and aesthetic bonus.
Bookshelf for organizing modules and built-in niches
The traditional bookshelf can be rethought to make way for lighter modules, which can be
arranged vertically, horizontally, or built into the wall.
Open niches,
MDF modules, or
thin metal structures are options that ensure personality without overloading the projects.
Estúdio Trama, por Melina Romano – CASACOR São Paulo 2018. (Denilson Machado/CASACOR)
The idea here is to value the
verticality of the projects, leaving the floor free and contributing to the
sense of spaciousness. Furthermore, this type of composition allows changes over time, following the
growth of the house and its needs.
CASACOR Publisher is an exclusive content creator, developed by the CASACOR Technology team from the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. This text was edited by Yeska Coelho.