A fresh look.

There's something about a piece of furniture that has a bold, simple shape and sculptural appeal that makes a statement. It can have the same effect as adding a piece of art to your space. Cupboards and chests have a place in our lives — and we certainly need storage in some areas of the home — but swapping one heavy piece for a simpler or lighter piece can immediately give the whole space a fresh look.

Floor space.

The more floor space that you see in a room, the larger the room feels. That's why chairs and sofas with taller legs are great for small spaces, because your eye follows the floor that continues underneath the furniture and the room feels more expansive. Swapping out a heavy storage piece for something leggy can add precious "perceived space" to your room.

Storage for extra seating.

A sleek Parsons-style table adds another type of "storage potential" to your space: seating potential. Instead of storing bits and pieces in drawers, you can slide a beautiful bench or a pair of stools underneath that can be used as extra seating on a whim. This look is still tidy and uncluttered, but adds a whole level of additional functionality.