Just because I live in a compact New York apartment, it doesn’t mean I have to compromise my decor or how comfortable I am. You can really get the most out of any space and not feel confined, especially if you plan strategically and incorporate some clever design ideas.
1. Find Furniture That Does More
Go for furniture that can do multiple things, like futons or storage benches. I’ve used them in my own projects, and they’ve always been super useful for getting the most out of a space without losing style.
Check if these fit your needs:
- Adaptable Sleeper Sofa: Change up your living space with an adaptable sleeper sofa that’s as stylish as it is functional for guests or just lounging.
- Hidden Storage Bench: Keep your place clutter-free by using a storage bench. Stylish design meets practicality.
- Collapsible Coffee Center with Storage: Get the most out of your space with a collapsible coffee center, offering great storage without taking up too much room.
2. Consider an Open Concept
Make your living areas one big open space to get the most out of your square footage. I often tell people to get rid of unnecessary walls to make the space feel bigger and flow better.
Consider these options:
- Adaptable Sectional: This adaptable sectional maximizes space and is perfect for flexible living arrangements.
- Folding Wall Table: Upgrade your dining area with a folding table that mounts to the wall to save space.
- Open-Shelf Display: Use an open-shelf display to divide spaces while keeping things light and airy.
3. Look for Smaller Seating
Find seating that fits well in your space, like loveseats or chairs with thinner frames. I’ve realized they provide a lot of comfort without taking up too much space.
Explore these options:
- Streamlined Loveseat: This stylish loveseat offers plenty of comfort without taking up too much space.
- Folding Cafe Chairs: Choose foldable cafe chairs to save space and have extra seating when needed.
- Sleek Armless Chair: Choose a modern, armless chair to make the most of a small space.
4. Experiment with Textures
Play around with different textures in your fabrics and materials to add depth. I like doing this to make things more visually interesting without adding clutter.
Some ideas to consider:
- Patterned Woven Rug: This woven rug adds warmth and depth with its intricate pattern.
- Cozy Knit Throw: Add texture and comfort to your sofa with a cozy knit throw.
- Knotted Wall Art: Add visual interest to your walls with a beautiful piece of knotted wall art.
5. Decorate Thoughtfully With Art
Make it personal with art and decor, but don’t go overboard. I think it’s better to pick a few standout pieces instead of covering every wall and surface.
Check these products out:
- Simple Line Art Prints: Elevate your decor with simple line art prints. They’re stylish and make a big impact.
- Standing Lamp: Light up any room with a sleek standing lamp. It adds height and looks elegant.
- Braided Baskets: Keep your space organized and stylish with braided baskets. They’re as functional as they are beautiful.
6. Add Some Green
Put in some house plants to bring in a bit of nature. I’ve found that plants not only make things look nicer, but they also make the air better and improve your mood.
Possibly helpful picks:
- Indoor Gardening Set: Get started with lush greenery with this easy-to-use indoor gardening set.
- Chic Plant Holders: Show off your plants with chic ceramic pots that go with any decor.
- Plant Grow Light: Give your plants a boost with a space-saving LED grow light, perfect for city living.
7. Make the Most of Your Walls
Use your walls for art and shelving to take advantage of vertical space. I use this idea a lot because it can turn your walls into something decorative and useful.
These products might help:
- Wall-Mounted Shelves: Get the most out of your storage with wall-mounted shelves. Great for showing off books, photos, and decor.
- Artwork Collection: Liven up your space with a collection of curated art prints that bring color and character to any room.
- Woven Organizers: Keep your things organized in style with woven organizers, perfect for shelves or under tables.
8. Add Storage to Your Walls
Add shelves and storage to your walls to keep your apartment neat and tidy. In my experience, built-in storage helps things look sleek while also giving you lots of space to store things.
Items that may come in handy:
- Mounted Shelving Systems: Get the most out of your walls with mounted shelving systems. They look great and are super practical.
- Customizable Cabinetry: Optimize your storage with cabinets designed to fit your small space perfectly.
- Discreet Storage Options: Find discreet storage solutions to keep your apartment looking great and clutter-free.
9. Go for a Soothing Color Story
Go with light and airy colors to give your apartment a feeling of spaciousness and light. From what I’ve seen, giving a place a fresh coat of white or a soft beige can really make it feel more expansive.
Try these:
- Gentle Hued Cushion Collection: Bring a cozy element to your space with these gentle-hued cushions, great for maximum comfort.
- Creamy Neutral Rug: Add a layer of warmth and style with a dreamy, creamy neutral rug that works well with most decor.
- Ethereal White Window Coverings: Let light in and maintain privacy with delicate, ethereal white window coverings.
10. Add Bold Art as a Focal Point
Add some bold artwork as a focal point to catch the eye and make the room seem bigger. A striking piece of art can be a great conversation starter.
You might give these a try:
- Abstract Wall Art: This abstract canvas will add a vibrant touch and instantly grab attention.
- Colorful Art Print: This modern art print will add life and intrigue to any room.
- Typography Wall Decor: This typography piece will make a statement and become the focal point of your home.
11. Think About a Lofted Bed
If you have high ceilings, think about adding a loft bed to free up floor space. It’s a fun idea that can make your home more practical.
May just do the trick:
- Loft Bed: This sturdy loft bed will free up floor space in your small apartment.
- Under-bed Storage: These versatile storage bins fit perfectly under your loft bed and will help you stay organized.
- Bedside Clip-On Shelf: This clip-on shelf will give you easy access to everything you need while you’re in bed.
12. Pick a Statement Rug
Use a statement rug to highlight specific areas and bring in color. I’ve found that a good rug can really tie a room together.
Some handy options:
- Geometric Rug: This bold geometric rug will add energy and highlight your space, transforming your room with ease.
- Vibrant Abstract Rug: This abstract rug will add life to any living area.
- Boho Rug: This boho rug is sure to add warmth and personality to your home, creating a cozy atmosphere.
13. Use Glass and Mirrors
Add glass and mirrors to reflect light and make the room feel bigger. I’ve always used this trick to make spaces feel more open.
You might like:
- Large Accent Mirror: A stylish accent mirror will enhance light and make your space feel bigger.
- See-Through Coffee Table: This chic, see-through coffee table adds elegance and makes the room feel more open.
- Mirrored Dresser: This mirrored dresser will make your small apartment feel bigger and more organized.
14. Bring in Natural Light
Let as much natural light in as possible by keeping windows clear and using light, airy curtains. I’ve learned that this simple change can really make a small space feel better.
A few choices to try:
- Light Filtering Curtains: These sheer curtains will flood your space with soft daylight, creating a dreamy atmosphere.
- Privacy Window Overlay: Give yourself some privacy while still letting light in with decorative window film.
- House Plants: Bring nature indoors with vibrant and easy-to-care-for house plants.
15. Mount Lighting on the Walls
Choose lights that mount to the wall to free up space on tables and counters. I think sconces are great for lighting and adding a stylish element.
A few suggestions:
- Adjustable Wall Sconce: This versatile sconce offers style and flexible lighting, making it a great addition to any decor.
- Modern Industrial Wall Sconce: Add a touch of industrial style with this elegant wall sconce that saves space.
- Vintage Style Wall Lamp: This vintage-style lamp creates a cozy and stylish atmosphere.
16. Install Floating Shelves
Put up floating shelves to create storage without using floor space. I always use this to keep things looking clean and modern.
A few helpful options:
- Wood Floating Shelves: These stylish wood floating shelves add storage and look great with books and decor.
- Sleek Wall-Mounted Shelves: Create space and add a modern touch with sleek floating shelves.
- Durable Wall-Mounted Shelves: Get the most out of small spaces with versatile wall-mounted shelves that are perfect for storage.
