Your Ultimate Guide to Small-Space Living
If you’ve recently downsized to a small apartment or home, you might be wondering how to make the most of your new space. Living in a small space can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to be uncomfortable. With some strategic planning and creative thinking, you might realize that living in a small space isn’t so bad after all. That’s our goal for this article! So if you’re ready to tackle your small space head-on, here’s our ultimate guide to small-space living.!
Re-think Your Furniture
When it comes to small-space living, every inch counts. Start by rethinking your furniture. Instead of bulky pieces that take up a lot of floor space, opt for furniture with a trim frame and clean lines. Also, choose multi-functional and convertible furniture pieces whenever you can. A storage ottoman that doubles as a coffee table or a sofa bed that can accommodate overnight guests is a great example. These pieces will reduce the amount of furniture needed and avoid overcrowding. For a list of small-space furniture ideas check out our other post: The Best Furniture Pieces For Small Apartments

Maximize Vertical Space
When you can’t expand horizontally, go vertical! Maximize vertical space and take advantage of your walls and create more storage space with wall-mounted shelves and cabinets. You can also use vertical space to add some greenery to your home by installing hanging planters or a living wall.

Make use of hidden storage
If you’re struggling to find space to store all your belongings, consider using hidden storage options. For example, a bed with built-in drawers can provide extra storage for clothes or linens. You can also use storage ottomans or benches for storing items like blankets or books. Storage trunks and closed cabinets are all ways to stay organized and clutter-free.
Create Zones
Just because you live in a small space doesn’t mean you can’t have designated areas for different activities. Use rugs, screens, or furniture to define zones for sleeping, working, and entertaining. This is particularly useful if you live in a studio with an oven floor plan. Use your bookcase as a divider between your living room and sleeping space. Or place your sofa between your kitchen and living room to delineate the space. You can also experiment with lighting to create different moods in each zone.

Let In Natural Light
Natural light can make even the smallest space feel bigger and brighter. Make sure to keep your windows unobstructed and use lightweight, light-colored, or even sheer curtains to let in as much light as possible. You can also add some mirrors to reflect the light and create an illusion of more space.
Get creative with décor
Small-space living often requires a high degree of creativity. Get creative with your décor and add some personality to your home. Use bold colors, patterns, and textures to make a statement. Hang art or photographs to create a focal point. And don’t be afraid to mix and match different styles to create a unique look. Try not to get too bogged down with all the design rules. Choose decor accessories that elevate your small space and reflect your personality. It’s YOUR home after all!

Use A Light Color Pallete But Don’t Be Afraid To Go Bold Or Even Dark!
A light color palette can make small spaces look brighter and create the illusion of more space, so it does make sense to stick to lighter shades of paint and furnishings. But don’t be afraid to mix things up with some bold shades too! Incorporating bolder and darker hues can add depth and character to a small space. For example, adding a dark accent wall or bold piece of furniture can create a focal point and draw the eye, making the space feel bigger and more dynamic. Check out this guide on how to use dark paint colors in small rooms.

More Stunning Dark Accent Wall Ideas For Small Spaces Here!
Try playing with texture and pattern to add visual interest and dimension without overwhelming the space. Ultimately, striking a balance between light and dark elements can help create a cohesive and inviting space that maximizes its potential.
Keep it clean
A clean and organized space will always feel bigger and more comfortable than a cluttered one. Make sure to regularly clean your small space and put things away when you’re done using them. Consider investing in a cordless vacuum or a compact cleaning kit to make cleaning small spaces easier.
Embrace minimalism
Clutter is the enemy of small-space living. Embrace minimalism and get rid of anything you don’t need or use regularly. Invest in organizational tools like drawer dividers, closet organizers, and under-the-bed storage boxes to keep your space tidy.
Invest in quality pieces
When you’re living in a small space, every piece of furniture counts. That’s why you need to be intentional with your furniture and decor selections It’s also important to invest in quality pieces that are both functional and durable. Customizable pieces like modular furniture are versatile and can be arranged to suit your space and lifestyle. Look for items made from high-quality materials that will stand the test of time. An upfront investment will spare you any repeat purchases in the coming years.

Employ Clever Design Tricks For A More Spacious Feel
When Decorating a small space or apartment, there are a few tricks that will make your space look and feel bigger. Some of these include
- Use a light color palette for your small space. But if you want to add some drama and depth try a bold or dark accent wall or furniture piece for visual interest.
- Use mirrors to create the illusion of more space. Place a large mirror on a wall opposite a window to reflect natural light and make the room feel brighter and more open.
- Choose Leggy furniture to reduce visual clutter and to make the room feel more open and airy.
- Create the illusion of high ceilings by hanging curtains high (as close to the ceiling as possible) and hanging artwork at eye level (or try a floor-to-ceiling gallery wall). This trick will make your small room look taller.
- Choose concealed storage to avoid visual clutter. Storage bins, small cabinets, baskets, and storage ottomans all provide a hidden space for your items without disrupting your room’s aesthetic.
Related: 14 Design Tricks To Make Your Small Bathroom Look Bigger!
Add some personal touches
In a small space, it’s important to make it feel like home. Add some personal touches like family photos, artwork, or sentimental objects to make your space feel cozy and inviting. Small plants or fresh flowers can also add a nice touch of nature to your home. Check out our guide on How To Decorate A Small Room Like A Pro?

Get inspired
There are plenty of resources available for small-space living inspiration. Read home decor blogs like this one. Get on Pinterest, and browse Instagram for ideas and inspiration. Our Pinterest profile is packed with clever small-space storage ideas and design inspiration.

Remember, living in a small space doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort or style. With a little guidance, creativity, and some careful planning, you can transform your small space into a cozy and inviting home.
If you need some small-space design inspiration check out our Inspo roundups:
- 15 Tiny Bedroom Designs That Prove No Space Is Too Small.
- 14 Design Tricks To Make Your Small Bathroom Look Bigger!
- Small Living Room Inspiration For Your Next Makeover
- Tiny Kitchen Design Inspo For Your Next Makeover – Pinterest Roundup!
- Small Dining Room Design Ideas That Will Inspire!
- 18 Small Kitchen And Living Room Combos that Work!
- Coffee Station Ideas For Small Spaces
Make Use Of Those Corners
Don’t let those corners go to waste. Corners can be great places to add extra storage or create a cozy reading nook. Install corner shelves or a corner bookshelf to take advantage of that unused vertical space. You can also place a comfortable chair and a lamp in the corner to create a cozy spot for reading or relaxing. See our other article: How To Maximize Storage In A Small Apartment? – 8 Things you MUST Do! for more sneaky storage ideas.

Think Outside The Box
Don’t limit yourself to traditional furniture and décor. Look for unconventional items that can serve multiple purposes. For example, a ladder can be used as a towel rack, a wooden crate can serve as a side table or shelf, and a hanging shoe organizer can be repurposed for storing toiletries. Get creative and get on Pinterest. Check out our Pinterest page for creative storage ideas and inspiration.

Edit Your Belongings Regularly
Remember to regularly evaluate your belongings and see if there are any items you can donate or sell. Keeping a small space clutter-free requires ongoing effort, so make decluttering a part of your routine. Also, consider investing in furniture that can easily be disassembled or folded up when not in use to maximize your space even further.
So there you have it, our ultimate guide to small-space living! We hope that these tips and tricks will help you make the most out of your small space and create a comfortable and stylish home that you’ll love. Remember, living in a small space can be a challenge, but it can also be an opportunity to get creative and think outside the box. So don’t be afraid to experiment with different ideas and styles until you find what works best for you. And most importantly, have fun with it! Happy small-space living!
You May Also Like:
- How To Decorate A Small Room Like A Pro?
- 13 Design Hacks To Make A Small Room Look Taller.
- The Best Tips for Decorating A Small Living Room
- 20 Jaw-Dropping Dark Accent Wall Ideas for Small Spaces!
- 14 Design Tricks To Make Your Small Bathroom Look Bigger!
- Can You Use Dark Paint Colors in Small Rooms? Yes! Here’s How.
- The Best Furniture Pieces For Small Apartments
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