Online editor Briana and mobile developer Buzz worked with designer Brian Patrick Flynn to maximize every square inch of their loft living room. They relied on color to delineate the seating area and redirect attention away from the 10 x 12 room’s lack of space.

When designing a small living room, choose lightweight accent furniture that’s comfortable and easy to move.

The living room feels open, airy and spacious, with smart storage provided by the book towers, TV console and a fully stocked bar doing double duty as an end table.

Before the redesign, the bar lived under the stairs, looking inefficient and cluttered.