Just because you have a small apartment doesn’t mean you have to make do with lesser options for decor. Flexibility is key. You may not have a huge space at your disposal, but you don’t have to go short on style.
Don’t fall victim to the misconception that you should focus on functionality rather than design. Instead, find the correct balance between the two to create a space that lets you enjoy comfortable living.
When selecting items for your apartment, consider styling tips for leather furniture to combine functionality with your personal aesthetic. A brown leather couch, for instance, can add a touch of elegance while ensuring privacy and comfort, making it a focal point in your living space
To get the best out of your space while integrating your own style, follow these decorating tips.
1. Plan everything out.
When it comes to apartment living, every inch or centimetre counts. Measure everything you intend to put in your apartment so it fits beautifully.
Don’t buy furniture or huge appliances in haste.
Space is your number one enemy. Refrain from buying furniture or appliances without considering the area in which you’ll place them. Balance function with aesthetics.
Take measurements of spaces available for the appliances and furniture you need. Once you have all the big items in place, you can get to the details of decorating.
2. Give each area a specific purpose.
A lack of definition to a space can make your apartment look messy. Do your best to designate certain items to different areas in your apartment, with each section having a specific purpose.
- Put your shoe and coat racks by the door to refine your entrance.
- Station your sofa near or adjacent to the main door to mark your living space or use an area rug to indicate the same. You can use different area rugs to mark different sections of your apartment as well.
- If you have a particular interest, let that play an important role in separating a space. An indoor bike rack can be an integral part of a room rather than keeping it hidden away.
- You can also use plants not only to create a small indoor garden but also to demarcate space. You can also use a room divider to separate, say, your kitchen from the living area.
3. Keep things organized.
Clutter can detract from the elegance of your home, but innovative lighting ideas can elevate even the most organized spaces. Consider integrating hidden LED strips within shelving units or behind mirrors to add a soft glow that enhances the atmosphere without adding to the visual clutter.
For example, having a bunch of cables in a corner (or any space for that matter) can be unsightly. Find a way to hide them while making them accessible. You can use a cable organiser or cable box to keep unruly cables out of sight and still be able to use them.
4. Use available space efficiently.
Have you considered the possibility that you’re not using your space efficiently? When you buy an apartment, the challenge is to make all areas as useful as possible without cluttering them.
Consider Classic Hollywood decor ideas to transform dead spaces or unused corners into stylish and functional areas. A large windowsill can become a workspace adorned with old Hollywood glam, and a corner shelving unit could display memorabilia reminiscent of cinema’s golden era, turning storage into a statement
Install a wall planter to make space for a few indoor air purifying plants that will not only enliven your home but also help keep the air fresh. You can also place a few baskets on top of your refrigerator to hide infrequently used china.
5. Invest in dual-purpose furniture.
Make the most out of every room in your apartment by investing in furniture that has a dual purpose. Instead of working your space around furniture, buy pieces that will work with you.
- Choose a trundle bed that you can fold into a sofa when you watch television. A convertible chair bed is another great option if your priority is to save space.
- Buy an ottoman that you can use for storage and as a coffee table.
- Set up a multifunctional folding table that you can use as your workspace, dining table and living room end table.
Whatever dual-purpose furniture you choose, make sure to choose pieces that’ll fit the overall aesthetic of your home and, of course, your space.
6. Decorate for a reason.
Each design choice you make for your apartment will make an impact on its overall look and feel. To have a functional home, the decor elements you choose should also have a purpose.
Consider the following when decorating:
- Choose a light colour palette. Keep in mind that opting to use light colours for your apartment will help open up the space, including using lighter-hued window furnishings. Rich, dark colours have the tendency to make spaces look smaller. Focus on using three colours for your apartment: two light, bright shades and one dark accent colour to make things interesting.
- Layer to add depth. Small spaces usually lack depth. By layering, you can easily make up for its absence.Consider adding texture to the walls, such as with a subtle wallpaper, textured paint, or even a decorative wall panel. This will help add depth and intrigue without overwhelming the space.
- Illuminate rightly. Incorporate multiple sources of lighting, such as overhead fixtures, table lamps, and floor lamps. Each light source will add its own layer of illumination and help create a sense of depth.
Living in a small apartment doesn’t mean you have to let go of your creativity. Instead, figure out what your priorities are and design accordingly. Happy decorating!
