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:


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:



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:



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:



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:



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:



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:



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:



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:



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:



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:



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:



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:



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:



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:



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:



















