5 Rules For Designing Small Apartments
A small apartment is very different than a regular-size house or apartment. There are limited spaces to place everything, and you will have to be creative with your space management.
With that said, it is important to know some basic rules of interior design for small apartments so you can make them look beautiful.
When it comes to small living spaces, several clever design tips can help you configure your home in a way that tricks your eye into feeling like it’s plenty spacious.
You should consider how much natural light an area has before investing in additional lighting. You want to use neutral colors to blend together and match any window views.
Likewise, try to only have needed furniture in the room since having too many pieces takes up valuable space. Use storage solutions such as wall shelves and bedside tables to keep things organized.
This article will go more into detail about these tips along with other helpful information.
“Keep it simple”
Size does not matter in apartment design if you do not like size things. There are very small apartments with beautiful decorations that work well to inspire admiration.
A few examples of this include Ikea’s smallest room, which still has enough space for a bed, a desk, and some storage. It is just how they designed it!
Another example is the studio apartment we discussed earlier. While those rooms may be small, they feel largely due to their clever use of space.
They make the most out of what spaces there are by using them productively instead of being focused only on limiting the size of the room.
There is no wrong way to organize and decorate your apartment if you don’t like oversized pieces. If you love sleek furniture, go ahead and invest in some cool-looking pieces!
Just remember that everything must fit into your allotted space, and keep an eye on colors that could become too strong or overwhelming.
It will help you determine if the apartment is a good investment as well as meet your interior style – so, do not wait! Find an apartment checklist here to start organizing yours.
These tips can also help you evaluate whether the apartment is user-friendly and practical.
“Make it cozy”
Even if you’re not planning to offer small apartment rentals, this can help inspire new ideas or at least give you some tips to play with. Many people enjoy living in smaller spaces, so why not make more of that by offering it as an option?
There are many ways to design a space that feels comfortable and private. You can use natural light, patterned wall coverings, warm colors, and fluffy pillows to create a feeling of relaxation. Natural materials like wood, leather, wool, and cotton tend to be cost-effective and durable too!
If possible, try to have your tenants choose their own furnishings and decorations since they will feel most connected to them. This is especially important if the apartments get popular and lots of guests come over!
Urban homesteaders often refer to these as “homemade oasis” because they add touches such as plants, pottery, and handmade items to compliment the space
“A little space goes a long way”
One of the biggest reasons small apartments feel cramped is that there’s not enough room to do anything.
Most people assume that having more space means you get more closet space or bigger bedrooms, but that’s only part of it.
Thinking about ways to use your limited space can help make your apartment more comfortable and productive.
Here are five easy rules for using up space in an apartment efficiently.
- Color distinction- paint the second level in a different tonality
- Elevate the bed and give yourself more space underneath
- Use expandable/stackable tables that can be tucked away to save up space when not in use.
- Sliding staircase – movable elements which if necessary can be hidden or blend
- Don’t be afraid to use dark colors
Some common mistakes in Designing a small apartment
Designing a small apartment can be a creative challenge, but there are some common mistakes that can lead to a cramped and cluttered space. To help you create a functional and stylish small apartment, here are some things to avoid:
- Overloading the Space with Furniture: Too much furniture can make a small space feel cluttered and cramped. Opt for multi-functional and space-saving furniture, such as a sofa bed or a coffee table with storage.
- Neglecting Storage: Small apartments often have limited storage space, so it is essential to maximize the available space. Consider built-in storage solutions, such as under-bed storage or wall-mounted shelves.
- Choosing Dark Colors: Dark colors can make a small space feel even smaller, so opt for light and neutral colors. Light colors will make the space feel more open and airy.
- Ignoring Lighting: Good lighting is essential in a small space, as it can help create the illusion of more space. Avoid using harsh overhead lighting, and opt for ambient and task lighting instead.
- Skimping on Comfort: A small apartment doesn’t have to be uncomfortable. Invest in a comfortable bed and quality seating to create a space that is both functional and relaxing.
- Neglecting Wall Space: Wall space is valuable in a small apartment, so consider using it to add storage or display items. Hanging shelves, picture frames, and other decorative items can help create a more personal and stylish space.
- Overlooking Traffic Flow: It is important to consider the flow of traffic in a small apartment, as cramped spaces can be difficult to navigate. Avoid placing furniture in the way of doorways and make sure there is enough room for people to move around comfortably.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can create a functional and stylish small apartment that maximizes the available space and provides a comfortable and relaxing environment.