Contemporary Chic Condo

Michael Saunders and Lori Jackman sold their spacious home in the suburbs and moved into a 700-square-foot apartment in the heart of Washington, D.C., to cut out their lengthy daily commutes. The apartment has large windows and great natural light, but still required some major renovations to make the home functional for the couple. With a black slate floor throughout and some bold Italian tiles in the kitchen and bathroom, the space has been completely transformed into a contemporary urban home.

Expert Tips:

• Recessed lighting adds space, light and doesn’t get in the way.
  
• There’s no way around it: you have to edit your possessions and keep just what you use when you live in a small space.
  
• Be creative with closets. Michael and Lori added shelves in one closet to house everyday clutter (keys, cell phones, briefcases); they keep their cats’ litterbox in another.