You Won't Believe This Gorgeous House Is Only 362 Square Feet

"At under 400 square feet, our Craftsman cottage is indeed tiny, but in the five years we've been here, we've never needed more space," says Whitney Leigh Morris, small-space living aficionado, designer, and blogger behind The Tiny Canal Cottage. So what's her secret to making everything fit? "Nearly everything about the cottage — from the built-ins to the decor — was deliberately chosen to maximize the space. I selected furniture and accessories over time as we learned how to best navigate this particular layout with one another." Whitney recently refreshed her Venice Beach, CA, home for Spring, and the pictures were so stylish and full of small-space living inspiration that we had to share them with you. Take a look at Whitney's gorgeous digs and tiny-space living tips here, and then shop the look on Joss & Main.

In a small space, everything must serve a purpose. Whitney's genius is that she's managed to keep everything she brings into her tiny home both functional and attractive. "I am drawn to earthy textures and tones, which I enjoy pairing with bright whites, simple lines, and abundant greenery." The overall effect is pure style.

"While it might seem natural to buy small accessories and home goods when outfitting a tiny room, I've found that getting rid of clusters of little tchotchkes and replacing them with a single, medium-sized statement piece is usually much more visually appealing, and helps avoid clutter." This is sage advice no matter what size space you live in!

Whitney's home proves you can't judge style by square footage. Her coffee table easily doubles as an elegant dining table — perfect for entertaining — when she sets it with springtime dishes, flatware, and flowers.

Hanging tapestries and plants go a long way to conceal and enhance Whitney's home. "Plants instantly make a space feel alive, fresh, and welcoming, and can transform a room of any size," she explains. Plus, for the budget-conscious, she adds, "Greenery is an easy way to regularly update the style of your home without hurting your wallet or the environment."

Every mirror and window plays a role in a small space. Whitney explains, "Be deliberate when choosing which windows to dress with blinds or curtains, as curtain rods and hangings can sometimes bring walls inward. We only have one set of curtains (over the French doors in the bedroom), and have left all other windows free of coverings."

"I began decorating with plants and clippings when I decided that I didn't want to live a cluttered life," says Whitney. If possible, forego items like bookends and trinkets, and fill their place with plants. You'll brighten your home and avoid accumulating excess belongings.

"I love sitting on the stoop with Adam after work while the pups run around in the yard," shares Whitney. "Thanks to the twinkle lights, grapevines, bougainvillea, and lanterns, it feels like our little secret garden."

The softly glowing backyard is warm and welcoming thanks in large part to twinkle lights. "Twinkle lights are the simplest way to make an outdoor space look and feel magical," says Whitney.

No inch of Whitney's outdoor space is a wasted opportunity for decor or storage. "Hang throw rugs, lanterns, serving trays, gardening tools, baskets, and more to create a lived-in ambiance, while also keeping your outdoor necessities within reach."

Whitney's love of overgrown greens is evident in her cozy backyard — and serves a useful purpose. "Outdoor walls covered in ivy or creeping fig can soften the appearance of city porches and patios," she points out.