Rainwater Harvesting Systems for Your Home
CARMA STAHNKE
Designing for Small Spaces: Maximize Your Home’s Potential
CARMA STAHNKE
The struggle is real: How do we make the most of the space we have without sacrificing comfort and style? The answer is smart design choices that dramatically expand both function and ambiance. Whether you’re living in a cozy condo, fixing up a compact starter home or dealing with an awkward floor plan, plenty of practical – and trend-setting – solutions for designing for small spaces are available to you.
Start With a Purposeful Layout
Before buying a new recliner or bookshelf, first define how you want each living space to be used. A carefully organized layout helps prevent overcrowding and ensures every item has a role. Positioning couches and chairs away from walls, creating clear walkways and designating certain zones with rugs or lighting can make a room seem larger and more orderly. Even subtle changes can significantly improve day-to-day flow.
Choose Multi-Functional Furniture
To take full advantage of your square footage, your furniture needs to work overtime.
Look for pieces that offer hidden storage or serve more than one purpose, like ottomans with compartments, beds with built-in drawers or extendable dining tables. These options reduce clutter while maximizing usability – and are especially good for shared or open-concept areas.
Add Vertical Elements
When floor size is limited, go vertical! Wallmounted shelves draw the eye upward and are ideal for displaying artwork, books or dishware. Kitchens and bathrooms benefit from hanging organizers that keep essentials accessible but tidy. Such changes can have a big impact, infusing a refreshing sense of height and airiness – along with visual appeal.
Use Color and Light Wisely
As you consider paint and lighting, remember that soft neutrals, warm whites and pale tones make the perfect backdrop, while strategic pops of color add personality. Natural light is a major asset – keep window treatments minimal and use mirrors to bounce brightness throughout the room. By layering lamps and sconces, you can further enhance that breezy vibe.
Keep Décor Intentional
Less really is more in small homes. Choose a few meaningful decorative objects rather than filling every surface. Clean lines, cohesive textures and thoughtful accessories create a calm, curated look that feels comfortable rather than cluttered. Intentional styling allows each piece to stand out and contribute to the overall effect.
Think Custom Where It Counts
Built-ins, custom shelving or tailored storage solutions can transform awkward corners or unused nooks into highly functional areas. Minimal upgrades, like a new closet system or hidden beverage station, can significantly boost efficiency. Designing for limited spaces is about creativity, balance and intention. With a well-considered layout, versatile furniture and thoughtful details, even the smallest home becomes welcoming, stylish and full of potential. When every inch works harder, your sanctuary doesn’t just feel bigger – it feels better.
NOTES
Comes together easily, so delicious, great for a weeknight dinner, but perfect for parties and other medium gatherings
Crispy Cheesy Sweet Potato Skins
INGREDIENTS
• 6 medium sweet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons salted butter, melted
• 1 clove garlic, grated
• 2 teaspoons seasoned salt
• 2 teaspoons chipotle chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
INSTRUCTIONS
• kosher salt
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• crispy bacon bits, for serving
• avocado, cilantro, green onions, jalapeños, and sour cream, for serving
1. Preheat the oven to 425° F. Prick the sweet potatoes with a fork. Bake directly on the rack until tender, 35-40 minutes. Slice in half, then let cool.
2. Use a fork to scoop most of the flesh out, leaving about 1/4 inch of the sweet potato in the skins. Arrange the skins on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Mix the melted butter with the seasoned salt, chipotle chili powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt. Spoon the seasoned butter over each potato skin. Sprinkle over the parmesan. Bake 15-20 minutes, until crisp. Add the cheddar cheese. Bake another 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted.
4. Serve immediately topped with lots of bacon bits and an assortment of your favorite toppings. We love mashed avocado, yogurt/sour cream, green onion, cilantro, and candied jalapeños.
HOME TRENDS:
STAGING TIPS THAT MAKES HOMES FEEL
NOT DARK
When staging a home in the heart of winter, one of the biggest challenges is creating warmth without sacrificing brightness. Shorter days and limited natural light can make spaces feel heavy, but with the right staging approach, homes can feel cozy, inviting, and full of life.
The foundation of a warm, bright home starts with lighting. Layering is key—combine overhead lighting with table lamps, floor lamps, and
accent lighting to eliminate shadows and dark corners. Warm-toned bulbs instantly soften a space and create a welcoming glow that buyers respond to emotionally.
Next, focus on color balance. Light neutrals such as soft whites, warm greiges, and pale taupes help reflect light while still feeling cozy. Avoid stark whites or overly dark paint tones during winter showings. If walls are darker, balance them with
lighter furnishings and décor.
Texture plays a major role in warmth. Plush throws, woven pillows, and area rugs add comfort without visual heaviness. Stick to natural fabrics like wool, linen, and cotton in neutral tones to keep the look elevated and uncluttered.
Decluttering is also essential. Too many accessories or heavy furniture pieces can make rooms feel smaller and darker. Simplify layouts to improve flow and allow light to travel freely through the space.
Finally, don’t overlook windows. Keep them clean and unobstructed, and opt for sheer or lightfiltering window treatments. This maximizes available daylight while maintaining privacy.
Thoughtful winter staging shows buyers that a home can feel warm, bright, and livable yearround. When done well, it helps properties photograph better, show better, and ultimately sell with confidence—even in the darkest months.
$749,176 1,369 817 34 137 $399,000 $567,000 316 198 316
Market Insights
Spokane Countyexperienced a slight decrease in the average sale price, lowering to $419,585 marking a 0.3% decrease compared to January 2025. The median sales price saw a slight increase of 3.6%, settling at $399,000. The current inventory rose in a big way to 1,369 listings, an notable increase of 18.5% from the previous year. This represents a 4.5-month supply, an increase from January 2025, still indicating a seller's market. Residential closed sales also decreased by 6.8%, totaling 316 transactions. Additionally, the median days on the market increased to 34 days. Annual residential sales is up from year’s level, up 6.8%, totaling 316 sales.
In similar fashion, Kootenai Countyshowed increased price performance, with the average sale price raising to $749,176 reflecting a 18.1% increase from the previous year. The median sales price had an increase of 6.0%, reaching $567,000. Inventory in the area decreased by 12.9% to 817 listings. Residential closed sales saw a decrease of 2.0%, with 198 transactions recorded. The average days on the market increased to 137 days. Annual residential sales in Kootenai County are down 2.0%, totaling 198 transactions so far this year.
As interest rates fluctuate and the market anticipates changes throughout the year, it's crucial to consult with your