The global interior design market is projected to grow from approximately $150.7 billion in 2020 to $255 billion by 2027. The U.S. market alone was valued at $40.7 billion in 2020 and is expected to reach around $57.6 billion in the coming years. Source: SensibleDigs
Boston is known for its charming historic buildings, cobblestone streets, and a mix of classic and modern architectural styles. Townhouse apartments are a popular housing choice in this beautiful city, often characterized by their tall, narrow layouts and beautiful brick facades. Designing a Boston townhouse apartment can be an exciting opportunity to blend old-world charm with modern comfort.
In this blog, we will explore different ideas and tips for interior design to make your Boston townhouse apartment look stunning and feel cozy.
1. Interior Design Boston Townhouse
Boston townhouse apartments have a distinct personality. They are typically narrow, with multiple floors, large windows, and often feature charming details like exposed brick, high ceilings, and decorative moldings. The key to good interior design in a townhouse is to highlight these unique features while creating a functional and comfortable space. Here are some ways to embrace the classic Boston charm:
Keep Original Features: If your townhouse has original hardwood floors, brick walls, or fireplaces, keep them! These elements add character and give your home a warm, inviting feel.
Mix Old and New: Combine traditional elements with modern furniture and decor to create a timeless look. For example, pair a vintage-style chandelier with sleek, minimalist furniture.
Interior design for Boston townhouse apartments involves creating functional, aesthetically pleasing, and personalized living spaces that reflect the unique architectural character of the townhouses commonly found in Boston. Townhouses, with their multi-level layouts, narrow but deep structures, and historical charm, require thoughtful interior design to maximize space, enhance comfort, and preserve architectural integrity.
Designing these apartments typically involves:
Space Optimization: Making the most of narrow, vertical layouts.
Blending Modern & Historic Elements: Respecting the historical charm while integrating contemporary design.
Custom Solutions: Addressing challenges like small stairwells, split levels, and compact rooms.
High-Quality Finishes: Ensuring durability, as townhouses often serve as high-end urban living spaces.
2. Designing a Comfortable Living Room
The living room is the heart of any home, and in a Boston townhouse, it can serve as a gathering space for family and friends. Here are some tips to create a welcoming living room:
Maximize Natural Light: Townhouse apartments often have large windows, so make the most of them! Use light, airy curtains to let in as much natural light as possible. This will make the space feel more open and bright.
Cozy Seating: Choose comfortable sofas and chairs that fit the size of your living room. Since townhouses can have limited space, consider sectionals that can be tucked into a corner or small love seats for cozy seating.
Layer with Textures: To create a warm and inviting atmosphere, use a mix of textures. Throw blankets, soft cushions, and an area rug can add warmth and coziness to your living room.
Statement Wall: Consider creating a statement wall using artwork or by painting one wall in a bold color. If you have exposed brick, use it as the statement wall and keep the rest of the decor simple.
3. Making the Most of a Narrow Layout
One challenge of a Boston townhouse apartment is the narrow layout, but with the right design choices, you can make the space feel bigger and more open:
Use Mirrors: Mirrors can create the illusion of more space. Place a large mirror on one of the walls in a narrow hallway or living area to reflect light and make the space appear larger.
Choose Light Colors: Lighter colors make a room feel more open. Choose soft, neutral shades for the walls, such as light gray, beige, or off-white. You can add pops of color with decor items like cushions and artwork.
Vertical Storage: Utilize vertical space for storage. Install shelves that go up to the ceiling, and use tall bookcases or cabinets to make the most of the height in your apartment.
4. Creating a Functional Kitchen
Boston townhouse kitchens are often compact, so smart design is essential for making the space both functional and stylish:
Compact Appliances: Choose appliances that are sized appropriately for your kitchen. There are many great options for compact ovens, refrigerators, and dishwashers that work well in smaller spaces.
Open Shelving: Open shelves can make a small kitchen feel more spacious and provide easy access to everyday items. You can use them to display beautiful dishes or glassware, adding a decorative element to your kitchen.
Light and Bright: To make the kitchen feel larger, use light-colored cabinets and countertops. White or light-colored cabinets can give a clean, fresh look, while reflective surfaces like glass or stainless steel can add brightness.
Island or Cart: If you have enough space, consider adding a small kitchen island or a rolling cart for extra counter space and storage. This can be particularly useful for prepping meals or serving guests.
5. Designing a Cozy Bedroom Retreat
Your bedroom should be a peaceful and relaxing space. Here are some ideas for designing a comfortable bedroom in your Boston townhouse:
Focus on the Bed: The bed is the main feature of any bedroom, so invest in a comfortable mattress and quality bedding. A headboard can also add a touch of elegance and make the room feel more finished.
Use Soft Colors: Soft, calming colors like light blue, gray, or lavender can help create a relaxing atmosphere. Consider using these colors for the walls or bedding to promote rest and relaxation.
Smart Storage: Townhouses often have limited storage space, so make sure to use under-the-bed storage boxes or a bed frame with built-in drawers. You can also use wall-mounted shelves to keep nightstands clutter-free.
Add Personal Touches: Make your bedroom feel like your own by adding personal touches like framed photos, artwork, or decorative pillows. A small area rug can also add warmth and comfort underfoot.
6. Making the Most of Staircases and Hallways
Townhouse apartments typically have staircases and narrow hallways connecting different floors. These spaces can be more than just functional—they can also add charm to your home:
Gallery Wall: Turn your staircase wall into a gallery by hanging framed photos or artwork along the length of the stairs. This can add personality and make the space more interesting.
Lighting: Proper lighting is important for hallways and staircases. Use wall sconces or pendant lights to brighten these areas and add a touch of style.
Runner Rugs: Consider adding a runner rug along your hallway or stairs. It can add warmth, texture, and color while also reducing noise as people move between floors.
7. Creating an Inviting Dining Area
The dining area in a Boston townhouse might be part of an open-concept living space or in a separate room. Either way, here are some tips for designing an inviting dining area:
Choose the Right Table: Depending on your space, choose a dining table that fits comfortably. A round table can work well in smaller spaces, while a rectangular table might be better if you have a larger area.
Mix Chairs and Benches: For a modern and casual look, mix different types of seating, such as chairs on one side and a bench on the other. This can also save space if your dining area is compact.
Add a Centerpiece: A simple centerpiece like a vase of fresh flowers or a bowl of fruit can make your dining table look more inviting. Keep it low so it doesn’t block views across the table.
8. Decorating with Greenery
Adding plants to your Boston townhouse can make it feel more alive and vibrant. Here are some ways to incorporate greenery:
Potted Plants: Place potted plants near windows, on shelves, or in corners to add a natural element to your decor. Choose plants that thrive indoors and don’t require a lot of maintenance, like snake plants or pothos.
Hanging Planters: Use hanging planters to add greenery without taking up valuable floor space. This works well in smaller rooms or narrow spaces where you want to add a touch of nature.
Window Boxes: If you have windows that face the street, consider adding window boxes filled with flowers or herbs. This not only adds charm to the exterior of your townhouse but also brings color and life inside.
9. Embracing Boston's Seasonal Changes
Boston experiences all four seasons, and you can reflect these changes in your interior design. Use warm colors, cozy blankets, and soft textures during the colder months to make your home feel comfortable and inviting. In the summer, switch to lighter fabrics and brighter colors to create a fresh and airy atmosphere.
Why is Interior Design Required for Boston Townhouse Apartments?
Interior design for townhouses is essential for several reasons:
Maximizing Narrow and Vertical Spaces: Boston townhouses are often long and narrow, with multiple floors. Effective design can optimize these unique layouts, making small spaces functional and maximizing storage without compromising on style.
Preserving Historical Elements: Many townhouses in Boston are historic properties, featuring unique architectural details like crown moldings, hardwood floors, and fireplaces. Interior designers can balance preserving these elements with incorporating modern conveniences.
Enhancing Aesthetic Appeal: Interior design ensures that the space is visually appealing, blending modern trends with classic townhouse architecture. This is particularly important for creating a cohesive look and feel in open-plan areas.
Boosting Property Value: Thoughtful design increases the market value of townhouse apartments, making them more attractive to renters or buyers. For property investors, a well-designed townhouse can command higher rental rates or sale prices.
Personalized Living Spaces: Interior design helps transform the townhouse into a personalized living space that reflects the owner’s lifestyle, preferences, and functional needs (e.g., family living, work-from-home setups, etc.).
Navigating Renovation Challenges: In Boston, where many townhouses are older buildings, renovations often come with specific challenges, such as strict building codes, structural issues, and the need for modern updates. Interior designers help navigate these challenges seamlessly.
Interior Design Firms like DreamDen provides Interior Design for Boston Townhouse Apartments. Clients can receive custom design recommendations without in-person consultations.
Final Thoughts
Designing interior design boston townhouse is all about celebrating the charm of the building while making it functional and comfortable for modern living. Embrace the original features like exposed brick and high ceilings, and choose furniture and decor that reflect your style and needs. Whether you prefer a cozy, traditional look or a sleek, modern feel, your Boston townhouse can become a beautiful home with the right interior design.
By making smart use of space, adding personal touches, and keeping things light and bright, you can create a warm, inviting, and stylish home that you'll love living in. So get started, and transform your Boston townhouse into a space that perfectly suits your taste and lifestyle!