At many cottages, space is at a premium, especially when visitors descend. To avoid that holiday-turkey feeling—that is, stuffed—make sure the furniture you do have is functional, compact and, ideally, capable of filling more than one role.
Hammary Cubic’s coffee table with nesting ottomans
Make your coffee table do double-duty by hiding extra seating. Make it even more efficient with small trays that can turn the nesting ottomans into smaller places to rest a book or a cup of tea. More info: www.wayfair.com
Hiddenbed by Breda Beds
Murphy beds are great ideas, in theory. After all, a bed that folds up out of sight is a real space saver, right—except for the fact that you’re usually stuck with a large expanse of unusable wall once the bed is folded. Hiddenbeds solves that problem by incorporating a desk into the underside of the bed. More info: www.bredabeds.com
Structube Zen bedside table
This minimalist bedside table is perfect if you like to read, write or enjoy your morning coffee in bed—or if you just don’t have the luxury of a lot of space beside your bed. Create a ready-made table by tucking the table’s legs under the bed, and you’ll have the perfect excuse to request breakfast in bed. More info: www.structube.com
West Elm Mid Century daybed
Daybeds are great because they double as seating areas and spare sleeping quarters—without having to go to the hassle of folding up a sofa bed. Pull up a duvet, pile on some cushions, and you’re all set. More info: www.westelm.com
Grey floor pouf
Poufs are easily tucked away when they’re not being used, and a favourite place for kids to sit when all the grown-up seating is occupied. More info: www.etsy.com
Pottery Barn Balboa counter-height table and stools
If you need a little extra prep space in the kitchen, this counter-height table doubles as an island and a handy portable breakfast bar. More info: www.potterybarn.com
Ikea Sortera stacking recycling bin
OK, this isn’t exactly furniture, but these stacking containers are a great way to sort garbage, recycling or small items because you don’t have to unstack them just to throw something away. More info: www.ikea.ca
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