There's a tendency to talk about small spaces as a problem to solve, in which the square footage is treated as something to work around rather than with. However, some of the most beautiful and functional homes we've worked on are also some of the smallest. A compact bungalow in South Minneapolis or a limited downtown studio can feel just as gracious as a home twice its size. It simply requires a different kind of intentionality.

When someone tells us they want their space to "feel more connected to nature," their first instinct may be to incorporate large, leafy plants. This can be a great start, but biophilic design, the practice of designing spaces that strengthen our connection to the natural world, is so much bigger than what might be sitting in a terracotta pot on your console table.

Most of us don't think about how we'll move through our homes in twenty or thirty years. Decisions you make during a renovation or new build today can either support or work against you later. Considering how long you plan to be in your space is an important factor influencing design decisions and your investment.