10 Tips For Decorating A Small Kitchen And Living Room Combo
Decorating a small kitchen and living room combo can be a challenge. Open floor plans and studio apartments are a bit tricky to design, but it becomes even more challenging when space is limited. Since it’s important to make the most of every inch of space, a strategic approach is needed to decorate open kitchen and living room layouts. However, with the right design strategies, it’s possible to create a stylish layout that maximizes the space you have.
If you’re looking for design tips for a small kitchen and living room combo, there are plenty of options to choose from. From using a cohesive color scheme to blend the two rooms, to using furniture as dividers, there are many ways to make the most of your small space.
In this article, we’ll explore a range of design tips and ideas for small kitchen and living room combos. Implementing just one or two of these design tips will help you create a functional and stylish layout for your small space.
For design inspiration check out these Kitchen & Living Room Combos That WORK!
If you want more tips and tricks for small-space decor ideas check out this article: How To Decorate Small Rooms Like A Pro!
Design Ideas For Small Kitchen & Living Room Combo Layouts
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Use Color To Connect Both Spaces
Using a cohesive color scheme is another great idea for small kitchen and living room combos. By selecting a color palette that is consistent throughout both rooms, you can help to blend the two spaces together and create a cohesive look. You can choose to use the same colors in both rooms, or you can use coordinating colors that complement each other. Using a cohesive color scheme can help to create a sense of flow and unity between the two spaces.
Use Your Dining Table To Create Separation

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The easiest and most popular layout for an open floor plan is to place your dining table between your kitchen and living room. A dining table can serve as a natural divider between the two spaces, creating a clear separation while still maintaining an open feel. A small table in your kitchen can also provide additional food prep space when you need it. A counter-height bar/pub table will be perfect for this space in the absence of a kitchen island. By using a dining table to separate the two spaces, you can create a functional and stylish space that is perfect for small living.
Use A Kitchen Island As A Divider

A kitchen island can serve as a natural divider between the kitchen and living room, creating a clear separation while still maintaining an open feel. If your apartment didn’t come with a kitchen island you can buy a freestanding island to divide your space. These islands come in a wide variety of sizes, designs, and price points. Even a small, narrow kitchen island or cart is enough to create separation between the two living spaces. Plus, a kitchen island can also provide additional prep space, storage, and even a dining space. It’s a multifunctional piece worth the investment.
Add Paint/Tiles To Define Living Spaces

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Use paint to create visual separation between your living room and kitchen. Painting the kitchen and living room in different (but complimentary) colors will make these two spaces feel distinct. For example, you could paint the kitchen a light, bright color and the living room a darker, more neutral hue.

Or try using different materials for wall treatment. Using different materials, such as tile in the kitchen and wood flooring in the living room, can also help to create a visual separation between the two spaces. Renters can do this too! There are many removable, faux wood flooring and tiles that you can use safely without damaging the floors.
Create A Focal Point

A statement piece, such as an accent wall or large piece of artwork, can serve as a focal point and help to define the space. This can help to anchor the room and draw the eye, creating a sense of balance and unity.
Use A Bookcase To Divide The Space Without Disrupting The Flow

A backless bookshelf can serve as a visual divider between the kitchen and living room, while still allowing for an open and airy feel. This can be especially useful in studio apartments that need extra storage and visual separation.
Use Lighting Strategically

Another hack to make the most of your small kitchen and living room combo is to use lighting. Different lighting fixtures or levels of lighting can help to create a distinction between the kitchen and living room. For example, you could use two or three pendant lights above your kitchen island to delineate the space and a large chandelier in the living room. Using different lighting sources can help to define the different areas and create a sense of separation between the two spaces.
Use Rugs To Define The Space
Adding area rugs to each space can help to define the different areas and create a cohesive look. Choosing rugs in different patterns or textures can help to create visual interest and add personality to the space.
Try an Aesthetic Room Divider
Using an aesthetic room divider can be another great idea for small kitchen and living room combos. A room divider can help to visually separate the two spaces and create a sense of division between them. It can also serve as a decorative element and add character to the space.

Buy This 4 Panel Room Divider Screen On Amazon
There are many different types of room dividers to choose from, including screens, curtains, and shelving units. You can choose a room divider that complements the style of your home and helps to create the look and feel you want. Some popular options for small kitchen and living room combos include screens with open patterns that allow light to flow through and shelving units that provide storage as well as a visual separation between the two spaces.
Embrace your open-concept layout
Sometimes you just have to roll with it. Open-concept layouts can be a great way to make a small space feel larger and more open. By removing walls and barriers between the kitchen and living room, you can create a more open and airy feel. This can be especially useful in small spaces where every square inch counts.
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