In a smaller home, every furnishing choice has an impact. I’ve been having fun planning small-space coastal decorating and wanted to share two compact pieces we ordered this month and why they’re already favorites.
With our renovation almost finished, we started bringing in furniture and accessories to test how things will work with the new main-floor layout (the upstairs is getting new wood flooring this week). It’s an exciting stage—expect plenty of photos and ideas in the coming weeks.
Our plan is to reuse as much as possible. The renovation budget didn’t cover all-new furnishings, and while a total refurnish would be fun, we prefer to make do with what we have and add select pieces where needed. We did downsize a lot when we moved, so as the rooms come together we’ll likely add or swap a few items to better fit the space and our family’s needs.
One practical need I noticed right away was lightweight, compact extra seating that can be moved around easily. After some shopping, I found these charming bamboo director-style folding chairs. They arrived this weekend and we’re already in love with them—their craftsmanship and natural finish feel perfect for a coastal-inspired home.
The chairs are genuine bamboo and handmade, so each one has its own unique character. They sell in pairs, so I ordered two sets for a total of four chairs. While I like the look of Adirondack chairs we’ve used outside, they’re too bulky for tight indoor spaces and aren’t convenient to move inside for extra seating. These bamboo director’s chairs are lightweight, attractive and far more versatile.
These bamboo chairs are compact and not meant for lounging, but they’re comfortable for a morning coffee on the porch or an easy conversation with a friend. We placed two on the front porch and the other two inside; they immediately added a relaxed coastal vibe to the living area.
Their versatility is a major plus. These chairs can move into the living room or upstairs, be set on the deck for a gathering, or used at a dining table for holidays. When not needed, they fold flat and tuck into a closet or the garage. They’re ideal anywhere an extra seat is handy—especially in small homes or cottages.
Speaking of small spaces, I recently ordered folding tray tables that turned out to be a hit. My mom loves them, so I lent a pair to her Tiny Cottage. They’re sturdy, easy to move, and fold flat for storage—perfect as compact accent tables or temporary surfaces.
Think beyond the classic TV tray function: these tables work for a laptop, an extra surface in the kitchen, a bedside spot, or a place to set drinks on the porch. They pair nicely with the bamboo chairs for an informal seating area that’s both practical and pretty.
These folding tray tables and bamboo chairs coordinate especially well and create an easy, coastal look wherever you place them.
I’ll be sharing more photos of our newly renovated home soon. For those following the remodel, you can catch up on the earlier posts in the remodel series in my archives.
Folding wood tray table
Folding bamboo chairs
Navy star throw blankets
Striped pillow
Blue and white outdoor rug
White outdoor string lights
White ceramic garden stool
Pleated lampshade
Similar clam shell accessory
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