25 smart small apartment ideas to maximise space

Contrary to popular belief, small apartments can be designed to look spacious. It requires careful planning and designing the space to match your style. This includes using smart storage and furniture options and minimising clutter. If you live in a compact home or a studio apartment, follow these tips to create more living space.

 

Small apartment living room design ideas

Smaller furniture pieces

An easy way to design a small living room is to choose small furniture pieces that do not take up much space. This allows ample space for movement and makes the room appear larger.

 

Source: Pinterest/ talkdecor.com

 

Low seating arrangement

Choose low seats over traditional sofa sets. This gives the illusion of a spacious room with a casual look. Complement the look with tall planters and ceiling-height curtains.

 

Source: Pinterest/Sevier55667

 

Mirrors

Place mirrors to expand the room visually. Choose a trendy mirror design that creates a style statement. Make sure to place it opposite a window, which will help reflect light and brighten up the room.

 

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Unique ceiling

Choose an attractive ceiling design. Consider alternatives to false ceilings, which do not reduce the ceiling height. Install suitable lighting fixtures to brighten the room.

 

Source: Pinterest/Juz Interior

 

Matching wall and ceiling

Another trendy small apartment design idea is to paint the walls and ceiling in the same colour, creating a cosy and visually appealing room. Opt for lighter shades and include dark colours to create a striking look.

 

Source: Pinterest/Melaniejadedesign

 

Textured wall

A textured wall or artwork on the wall gives a unique appearance. Macrame wall hangings and 3D paintings are excellent choices for this design.

 

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Panelling

You can achieve cohesion with panelling. You can bridge the different areas of your home using thin strip panelling across the rooms.

 

Source: Pinterest/ Studio Slip

 

Wall mounted lighting

Instead of lamps that occupy floor space, install wall sconces in the living room, which can bring a modern appeal while saving space. It is an excellent way to reduce clutter on the floor, allowing easy movement.

 

Source: Pinterest/tiziri.pro

 

Counter stools

Do away with the kitchen island or table and opt for small counter stools. The stools can be easily tucked under the counter, saving a lot of space.

 

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Small apartment storage ideas

Windowsill storage

Utilise the windowsill area for storage. You can place trinkets and other items or books in this space.

 

Source: Pinterest/stylowipl

 

Bed storage units

A bed with storage space can be the ideal choice for a compact home. These storage units can be used to keep extra bedding or luggage.

 

Source: Pinterest/bedbathbeyond

 

Under-bench storage

Another storage idea, which can save space, is to invest in benches or seating with storage options. This can make your room look bigger while reducing the clutter.

 

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Wall hooks

Install multi-purpose hooks, which can be used to keep things and save a lot of space. Go for sturdy hooks, which can hold chairs if required.

 

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Small apartment partition ideas

Glass partition

Glass can be incorporated into modern home design to give an illusion of space. A glass-panelled screen can bring sufficient visual separation to the home while allowing ample light.

 

Source: Pinterest/aliyagull280122

 

Folding screen

Consider placing a folding screen, which gives privacy and the illusion of a bigger room. This works best for a studio apartment.

 

Source: Pinterest/KinniaDesign

 

Curtain dividers

Choose curtains over doors, which will not block light and make the room brighter and spacious. Pick curtains with colours that suit your interior design.

 

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Low shelves

Low shelves can be the best choice if you are planning to design a small room. It can even be used as a room partition or as a storage unit to keep books and other items.

 

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Floating artwork

Choose a floating artwork and place it in the middle of a room to create a partition. It works as a décor item and can make your room look appealing.

 

Source: Pinterest/contemporist

 

Budget-friendly small apartment design ideas

Open shelving

Open shelving can give an impression of an open and spacious house. These units can be used to display interesting décor items and knickknacks.

 

Source: Pinterest/monicajimenezf

 

Colourful rugs

Placing a vibrant rug or carpet on the floor can capture attention and make a compact room look interesting. A multicoloured rug can be used to define various zones in the house.

 

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Accent wall

Consider designing an accent wall, which can become the focal point of the house. It creates a visual depth and can transform your living space. Pick a mix of bold and neutral hues to create a beautiful look for the room.

 

Source: Pinterest/HearthandPetals

 

Mix and match chairs

Try to mix and match the colours of your living room chairs. Experimenting with colours can bring a visual interest to any space. You can also experiment with different materials.

 

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Magazine rack-cum-side table

Transform an old side table into a magazine rack or vice versa. This multipurpose furniture can save space while creating a perfect reading corner.

 

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Elevated bed

For compact rooms, an elevated bed design will utilise the vertical space and free up floor space. You can design a small home office in the available space beneath the elevated bed.

 

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Hidden bed

If you live in a studio apartment, it is wise to invest in a foldable or retractable bed that can be placed below a solid platform.

 

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FAQs

How can I make my apartment look classy?

Place mirrors, a vintage side table cum bookshelf or a classic room divider.

How can I make my apartment nicer?

Redesign the ceiling with a false ceiling or other alternatives. Install suitable lighting to keep the house illuminated.

How to design a small apartment?

Invest in space-saving furniture and opt for wall-mounted lighting and storage units.

How to make a small apartment luxury?

Go for attractive wall art or a textured wall. Consider designing an accent wall or an extended wall panelling.

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com