That's the mantra preached by interior designer Arlene McIntyre, who believes that even the tightest of living spaces can be transformed with a little time, thought and vision. The first step is to accept smallness. A little home needn't be a cause for embarrassment. Consider it a lifestyle choice, not a financial necessity.

In some cases, getting in ahead of the builders in a new development can pay dividends, says McIntyre. You might, for example, be better to sacrifice an en-suite or two for a larger living and bathroom area. In other situations, you could consider reconfiguring the space if you've got a big balcony but a tiny sitting room. Multiple levels creating distinct zones can add interest to compact interiors.

Sometimes quite small and relatively straightforward alterations, such as removing a partition wall to open up internal views and reshape the living area, result in the most startling improvements. Roof space offers an equally striking and wide choice of spatial options.

In dwellings where structural change isn't an option and the living area has limitations, such as a low ceiling, breaking up the space with a screen or dividing panel that doesn't reach the full height of the room can be effective.

Lighting can also play a part in devising chic, petite schemes. Built-in and recessed ceiling fittings produce good general and background illumination.

Effective, accessible storage is key to successful small space living, McIntyre believes.

Designing your own systems or enlisting the help of a professional, and getting a carpenter to make them, means bespoke doesn't have to break the bank. In older properties, smart shelving will make the most of alcoves while window seats with storage can be a smart choice. Providing multimedia storage either side of a fireplace can inject an element of modern style.

Floor-to-ceiling handle-less storage makes streamlined sense, particularly important in open-plan areas. It can be featured everywhere from the kitchen to the bathroom and bedrooms. Grids of equally spaced shelving can create a cool graphic effect. Try incorporating baskets as a way of organising clothes and other items in the bedroom. Tackle redundant areas under stairs with cupboards. Recessed niches are a nifty solution for displaying books above doors and for stashing cosmetics and towels in bathrooms. Cupboard space can also be built into headboards for real stowaway style.

McIntyre's advice is to take time in designing and furnishing small spaces. "When people move into a new home, they often go out in a big rush to buy lots of furniture, " she remarks. "This can result in an excessive amount of furniture and a haphazard scheme."

She recommends getting the bones of the d�cor right, starting with the floor. Light wide plank oak is a popular option but you can also achieve the same effect with dark wood. "The key is to keep light with light and dark with dark for a coherent finish. Light shades of neutral colours will help make the space seem more open."

Paint radiators and old wardrobes the same colour as the walls. Sliding doors are ideal for restricted spaces, says McIntyre, who imports a range from Italy with a variety of finishes including mirrored doors.

Keep window treatments fuss-free by going for Roman or wooden blinds rather than curtains, McIntyre suggests.

"Trim everything back to make it feel lighter and brighter."

Many kitchen designers have moved away from standard cupboards to lots of deep drawers, which are generally more space savvy. Units are also taking on a furniture feel to complement living areas. A whole array of slimline and stackable kitchen appliances are on the market, meaning you don't have to hold back on kitchen kit.

Go shopping, armed with exact measurements and keep your eyes peeled for savvy solutions such as pull-out dining tables, trunks that double as coffee tables, portable trolleys, toy boxes on wheels, and beds that incorporate storage or wall beds. Low-level furnishings will enhance the sense of space in pads pushed for space.

Playing with mirrors is a style secret of McIntyre's.

"They will lift the eye away from small rooms, " she says. A mirrored wall or mirrorbacked door can create an expansive effect.

If you don't have young children, glass can be a clear winner. "Using a lot of glass furniture will reflect more light and double the size of the room, " she says. Sliding glass panels can be used to separate kitchens and living areas.

A mirrored panel behind glass shelving can also help open up a room. Even a backlit glass splashback can add a feeling of space. Frosted glass preserves privacy while letting the light in.

With bathrooms taking on the role of serene sanctuaries in modern homes, it's vital to create the illusion of space even if you haven't room to swing the proverbial cat. Wallhung fittings and wall-mounted taps as well as glass mosaic tiles, opaque glass-block windows, shiny surfaces, and recessed sections and fittings will make small bathrooms seem larger. While some homeowners are dispensing with tubs in favour of showers, those who enjoy an indulgent soak can opt to sink their bath into a platform.

Entrance hallways should be kept clear - paring back your possessions is a must - and can work extra hard with rows of hooks and cabinets if there is room.

ARLENE'S TOP TIPS

�You can immediately increase the feel of space in a room by painting walls, skirting and ceiling in the same colour. The secret is to keep light with light and dark with dark for a cohesive finish
�Using wooden blinds for warmth, roman blinds for softening and keeping curtains similiar to the wall colour will help to prevent breaking up the pattern of space and visually stretch out a room
�Let walls and corners work hard for you - use adjustable shelving units to stash books, tableware, sound/plasma systems, CDs, DVDs, etc. Sliding doors are also great for restricted spaces
�Pull the space together in a room by keeping it open plan and use plenty of moveable/multi-purpose seating and furniture that can be used in both the living and dining spaces.
�Use mirrors - it's the greatest cheat in the world! A mirrored wall or mirrored door can really help to push out walls and visually increase the size of a room.

Hanging furniture off the walls is also a good trick.

USEFUL CONTACTS
�Arlene McIntyre, 087 244 6464; info@ventura. ie; www. ventura. ie
�Living Large in Small Spaces by Marisa Bartolucci, published by Thames & Hudson
�Jane Graining in Compact Living by Jane Graining published by Mitchell Beazley