Apartment Decorating Tips for Small Spaces
Living in a smaller apartment presents unique decorating challenges. However, with a bit of planning and creativity, you can transform a compact space into a stylish and functional home. These apartment decorating tips will help you maximise every square metre.
1. Choosing the Right Furniture
The furniture you choose is crucial in a small apartment. Opt for pieces that are multi-functional and appropriately scaled to avoid overwhelming the space.
Multi-Functional Furniture
Sofa Beds: A sofa bed is a classic choice for small apartments, providing seating during the day and a comfortable bed for guests at night. Look for options with built-in storage underneath to further maximise space.
Storage Ottomans: These versatile pieces can serve as extra seating, a footrest, and a storage container all in one. Use them to store blankets, pillows, or even books.
Drop-Leaf Tables: A drop-leaf table can be expanded when needed for dining or entertaining and folded down when space is limited. This is ideal for small dining areas or kitchens.
Nesting Tables: These tables can be stacked together when not in use, saving valuable floor space. They can be easily pulled out when you need extra surface area.
Scaled-Down Furniture
Avoid Overly Large Pieces: Opt for smaller sofas, chairs, and tables that fit comfortably in the space without making it feel cramped. Measure your space carefully before purchasing any furniture.
Consider Apartment-Sized Furniture: Many furniture retailers offer collections specifically designed for smaller apartments. These pieces are typically scaled down in size and designed to maximise functionality.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Buying Furniture That's Too Big: This is a common mistake that can make a small apartment feel even smaller. Always measure your space before buying furniture and choose pieces that are appropriately sized.
Ignoring Storage Needs: Don't forget to consider your storage needs when choosing furniture. Opt for pieces with built-in storage to help keep your apartment organised.
2. Maximising Vertical Space
When floor space is limited, look up! Utilising vertical space is a great way to add storage and visual interest to your apartment.
Shelving
Floating Shelves: These shelves are a great way to add storage without taking up floor space. Use them to display books, plants, or decorative items.
Tall Bookshelves: A tall bookshelf can provide ample storage while also drawing the eye upward, making the room feel taller. Ensure it's securely anchored to the wall.
Corner Shelves: Make use of often-overlooked corner spaces with corner shelves. These are perfect for displaying smaller items or adding a touch of greenery.
Wall-Mounted Storage
Wall-Mounted Cabinets: These cabinets can be used in the kitchen, bathroom, or living room to provide extra storage without taking up floor space.
Pegboards: Pegboards are a versatile storage solution that can be used to organise everything from kitchen utensils to tools to craft supplies.
Hanging Organisers: Use hanging organisers in closets or behind doors to store shoes, accessories, or other items.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overloading Shelves: Avoid cluttering shelves with too many items. Keep them organised and visually appealing to prevent them from feeling overwhelming.
Ignoring Wall Space: Don't neglect the potential of your walls. Use them to add storage, display artwork, or create a focal point.
3. Using Mirrors and Lighting
Mirrors and lighting are powerful tools for making a small apartment feel larger and brighter.
Mirrors
Large Mirrors: A large mirror can create the illusion of more space by reflecting light and visually expanding the room. Place it on a wall opposite a window to maximise its effect.
Mirrored Furniture: Consider furniture with mirrored accents, such as a mirrored coffee table or side table. This can add a touch of glamour while also reflecting light.
Strategically Placed Mirrors: Place mirrors in hallways or other narrow spaces to make them feel wider and more open.
Lighting
Layered Lighting: Use a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a well-lit and inviting space. Avoid relying solely on overhead lighting, which can make a room feel flat.
Natural Light: Maximise natural light by keeping windows clean and unobstructed. Use sheer curtains or blinds to allow light to filter in while maintaining privacy.
Light-Coloured Lampshades: Choose lampshades in light colours to reflect more light into the room.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Poor Lighting: Insufficient lighting can make a small apartment feel dark and cramped. Invest in good-quality lighting fixtures and use them strategically.
Incorrect Mirror Placement: Placing a mirror in a location where it reflects clutter or a blank wall can actually make the room feel smaller. Consider what the mirror will reflect before placing it.
4. Creating Functional Zones
In a small apartment, it's important to define different functional zones to create a sense of order and organisation.
Defining Zones
Area Rugs: Use area rugs to define different zones within the apartment, such as a living area, dining area, or workspace. This can help to visually separate the spaces and create a sense of order.
Furniture Placement: Arrange furniture to create distinct zones. For example, you can use a sofa to separate the living area from the dining area.
Screens and Dividers: Consider using screens or dividers to create more privacy or to separate different zones. These can be easily moved or removed as needed.
Multi-Purpose Spaces
Home Office in a Closet: Transform a closet into a functional home office by adding a desk, shelves, and good lighting.
Dining Area in the Living Room: Create a dining area in the living room by using a small table and chairs that can be easily moved or folded away when not in use.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Lack of Definition: Failing to define different zones can make a small apartment feel chaotic and cluttered. Use rugs, furniture placement, or screens to create distinct areas.
Overlapping Zones: Avoid overlapping different zones, as this can make the apartment feel cramped and disorganized.
5. Decluttering and Organising
Decluttering and organising are essential for making a small apartment feel spacious and comfortable. Our services can help you with decluttering and organisation if you find it overwhelming.
Decluttering
Regular Purges: Regularly go through your belongings and get rid of anything you no longer need or use. Donate, sell, or discard items that are taking up valuable space.
One In, One Out Rule: For every new item you bring into the apartment, get rid of one old item. This will help to prevent clutter from accumulating.
Digital Decluttering: Don't forget to declutter your digital life as well. Delete unnecessary files, unsubscribe from unwanted emails, and organise your digital photos.
Organising
Vertical Storage: Utilise vertical storage solutions, such as shelves, cabinets, and wall-mounted organisers, to maximise space.
Under-Bed Storage: Use under-bed storage containers to store out-of-season clothing, linens, or other items.
Label Everything: Label storage containers and shelves to make it easy to find what you're looking for.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Holding onto Unnecessary Items: Don't hold onto items you no longer need or use, even if they have sentimental value. Consider taking photos of these items instead.
Ignoring Vertical Space: Failing to utilise vertical space can result in a cluttered and disorganized apartment.
6. Adding Personal Touches
Finally, add personal touches to make your small apartment feel like home. Learn more about Malverneastapartments and how we can help you find the perfect space to personalise.
Artwork
Choose Art That You Love: Select artwork that reflects your personal style and interests. Hang it at eye level to create a focal point.
Create a Gallery Wall: A gallery wall can add visual interest to a small apartment without taking up floor space. Use a variety of frames and sizes to create a unique display.
Plants
Add Greenery: Plants can add life and vibrancy to a small apartment. Choose plants that are appropriate for the amount of light you have available.
Hanging Plants: Use hanging plants to add greenery without taking up floor space.
Accessories
Personalised Accessories: Add accessories that reflect your personality and interests, such as family photos, travel souvenirs, or handcrafted items.
Cushions and Throws: Use cushions and throws to add colour, texture, and comfort to your living space.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overdoing It: Avoid adding too many personal touches, as this can make a small apartment feel cluttered and overwhelming. Choose a few key pieces that reflect your style and interests.
- Ignoring Your Personal Style: Don't be afraid to express your personal style in your apartment. After all, it's your home!
By following these apartment decorating tips, you can transform a small space into a stylish, functional, and comfortable home. Remember to prioritise multi-functional furniture, maximise vertical space, use mirrors and lighting strategically, create functional zones, declutter and organise regularly, and add personal touches that reflect your unique style. If you have frequently asked questions, be sure to check out our FAQ page. Good luck!