Just because you’re living in a smaller footprint doesn’t mean you need to skimp on beauty or ease. Take a look at some innovative design tips to help you take full advantage of every available inch.
Furniture That Works Overtime
Prioritize furniture that does double duty, serving multiple roles such as a sofa that turns into a bed, or a storage-equipped ottoman. Personally, I rely on a storage bench in my own space to keep the clutter monster away.
The Minimalist Approach
Take a less-is-more approach to keep your space from feeling chaotic. I have come to see that simplicity is key, with pure forms and a minimum of decorative elements.
Folding Furniture
Use furniture that folds up to take full advantage of space. My dining table folds down when it’s not in use, creating valuable free space.
Sliding Openings
Think about sliding doors to save room and give a modern touch. The barn door in my bedroom is both useful and looks fantastic.
Stylish Walls
Make use of art and wall decorations to draw the eye and inject some identity. I put up a gallery wall in my dining area that makes me smile every day.
Small-Scale Seating
Go with smaller seating arrangements like a loveseat or a duo of comfy armchairs. With a slim-style sofa in my tiny living room, I immediately get a feeling of more openness.
Textile Decorations
Bring in some warmth and detail by creatively working with textiles like carpets, curtains, and cushions. In my place, a bright rug really brings the room together.
Multi-Level Lighting
Mix different lighting sources to create a pleasant atmosphere and dimension. I use pendant lights along with floor lamps, and it works wonders.
Brighten Up with Light Tones
Go with bright and pale hues to give the illusion of more space in your small dwelling and make it feel more welcoming. I went with gentle whites and pastels for my walls to maximize light reflection and give a sense of roominess.
Hidden Nooks
Get the most out of uncomfortable corners with benches or corner shelves. I took a corner of my kitchen and turned it into a place to sit and have breakfast.
Bring Outdoors Inside
Add some natural touches such as plants to liven up your space. A few plants in pots bring a feeling of calm and freshness to my living room.
Eclectic Blend
Mix different styles and textures for a welcoming, eclectic feel. My living room is a mix of vintage and modern pieces, for a one-of-a-kind vibe.
Taking Advantage of Wall Space
Make the most of your walls by installing tall racks or using suspended storage. In my apartment, a towering bookcase pulls double duty as a room divider and a storage unit.
Unexpected Storage Tricks
Get creative with storage like drawers that slide under the bed, or cabinets that go on the wall. In my bedroom, the headboard has built-in shelves, saving space.
Zoning
Describe areas by using carpets or where you place furniture to create distinct zones. I like to put a carpet under my dining table, which makes my little studio feel more structured.
The Allure of Open Shelves
Opt for open shelves to maintain an airy vibe and create a space to display your cherished belongings. I have clear shelves in my kitchen to put my fine china on display while keeping an open atmosphere.
Shining Materials
Make use of shining materials like tiles to make the most of light. My tiny bathroom feels luxurious with gleaming surfaces to bounce light around.
Eye-Catching Details
Add a touch of the unexpected, like a bold color or a whimsical item. I have a bright yellow door to give a feeling of welcome.
Looking Glasses
Strategically use mirrors to make light bounce around and create the impression of greater dimensions. A large mirror in my hallway makes it feel much wider.