This ultra-tiny home in the Blue Ridge mountains is an unexpected source of small-space design inspiration
Bigger is better? Mini Mountain Blue – a tiny home in Blue Ridge, Georgia – begs to differ.
'Charming and secluded,' the property epitomizes small-space styling – exhibiting a rustic, country (but contemporary) aesthetic that is exactly what you would wish for in a mountain home. PS, if it is the answer to your vacation home fantasies – you're in luck – because Mini Mountain Blue is available for rent via Airbnb – and there is some availability for this spring and summer – if you're quick.
We are no strangers to scouting the best small room ideas – but what happens when one room serves as an entire home? A space such as this calls for smart paint ideas and even smarter storage – much like the ones we see in this home. Here, we tour the unique property.
The best impressions begin with the right curb appeal, and Mini Mountain Blue doesn't disappoint in that area, either. Despite its inevitably tiny façade, the blue exterior makes a bold but welcoming statement from the road.
The turquoise blue exterior complements the greenery perfectly; however, it also gives us a hint of the color ideas we can expect to see beyond its wooden front door. We love how the color pops against its backdrop – so, naturally, we color-matched it to this exterior paint below.
Barbie Dreamhouse Blue – From $49 on Backdrop
If you think this turquoise blue looks familiar, you're probably right. Paint company Backdrop paired up with Barbie to bring the identical color of the iconic Barbie Dreamhouse pool to life. We also think it matches Mini Mountain Blue's exterior perfectly. View Deal
Inside, the primarily blue color palette truly comes into play. As foreshadowed by its vibrant exterior, the walls are a (lighter) shade of the sought-after hue – creating a therapeutic space that is admired by those in the color industry.
'The color blue – and all its various shades – is universally loved in interior design,' says Myland's owner, Dominic Myland. He says that the color, in all its tones, has an enduring appeal and is very versatile. 'Light blue can be very soothing while more saturated blues can be stimulating; desaturated blues are a great choice for a quieter backdrop for other colors within a space, and brighter tones can also be the star of the show.'
Pale pastel blues, much like the ones seen on these walls, are popular choices for living spaces. According to Dominic, these hues create 'a light, bright atmosphere' and emit a calming, serene aesthetic that is welcome in any sized home. And, as the expert says, blues of all shades have the ability to make a small bedroom or living room feel larger.
'Despite a common misconception that dark blue shades can make a room feel small and unwelcoming, they can, in fact, make a room feel bigger,' he says. 'Blues are prevalent in many different areas, be it nature, art, interiors, or fashion. I always recommend looking at color combinations found in nature for inspiration.'
The Early Stuff – From $49 on Backdrop
Described as a 'clean, crisp, cool blue with a hint of gray' this soothing shade is Backdrop's twist on baby blue. Alongside the fact that it's easily applicable, we love how this paint is easily washable and green-certified, making it the more sustainable choice. View Deal
On the slightly higher level, the palette changes from blue – but its small bedroom decorating ideas are equally as stylish. Featuring a distinct patterned wall, the space breaks away from the subtle blue palette using the technique of decorating with stripes for clever small-space styling.
'Thought of as one of the most difficult patterns to execute well in the home, stripes and straight lines have the ability to draw you in,' says Yvonne Keal, a senior product Manager at Hillarys.
'Vertical dressing is a technique professional designers have used for many years to give the illusion of more space and make small rooms look bigger and brighter.'
Though described as 'secluded,' the home is a short drive from downtown and Lake Blue Ridge. However, its small size and surrounding forest give the home a sense of remoteness while still being close enough to the amenities of the northern Georgian city. We're checking our availability and checking out Airbnb asap.
