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44 Best Small Living Room Ideas

1

Work In Twos

Read McKendree

Sometimes smaller spaces actually allow for bolder color and pattern experiments. Here, Katie Rosenfeld worked in pairs. She used the same floral pattern for the sofa and drapes, corresponding (and wilder!) cheetah prints on the carpet and throw pillow, and then coupled the springy green paint with the striped ottoman. If you love this look but prefer something a touch more modern, try this formula but then swap in the traditional prints for edgy, modern photography or an abstract painting.

2

Separate Zones With Lighting

Gieves Anderson

David Frazier carved out both a formal sitting and dining room within the same small space. A statement pendant over the pedestal table helps separate the dining zone, and stackable dining chairs can also double as extra sitting in the living room. Pops of dark yellow speak to the warm antique wood pieces and break up the monochromatic color scheme, and a ceiling-high curtain rod adds depth.

3

Orient for Visits

Avery Cox

Ditch the sofa altogether if you'd rather use the living room as a place to catch up and chat with others as opposed to lounging horizontally. Four blue-painted rattan chairs are oriented towards each other for visits, but they're comfy enough to recline and stretch out on during life's quieter moments in this fun small living room designed by Avery Cox.

4

Play Up Period Details

Heidi Jean Feldman

In a Parisian apartment designed by Lichelle Silvestry, luxe, warm, and texture-rich velvet seating further enhances the elaborate period elements. “I adore using materials that add character and authenticity to my interiors,” Silvestry says. “It’s a sensory feast.”

5

Use refreshing Colors

Stephen Paul

In this small bungalow living room designed by Another Human, the contemporary linen-covered loveseat gets a bohemian treatment surrounded by a mix of granny-chic accents and '70s details. A surprising and rejuvenating shade of purple keeps things fresh and exciting.

6

Hang Plants

Fatma El Amin

Amber El-Amin worked around an odd overhang above the sofa area by hanging a plant from it. It enlivens the nook and brings a touch of unexpected whimsy without forgoing light—the two vintage lamps are strategically placed to brighten the tonal and laid-back yet upscale living room.

7

Use Fewer But Brighter Pieces

Frank Frances

Located by the entry and kitchen in the Novogratz family home, this bonus sitting room is a crash pad for any loitering kids or guests. It's also a great design formula for anyone looking for a formal setup in a smaller space: Colorful artwork, minimal decorative objects, and streamlined furniture... Just the basics! But in bright colors.

8

Display Heirlooms In Open Shelves

Oliver Thornton

Old books and heirlooms will instantly make a room feel more personal, and exposed shelving and/or glass-enclosed cabinets will really let them shine. In this living room designed by Oliver Thornton, they add character and speak to the layered warmth of the furnishings, even though the space isn't huge.

9

Let a Room-Spanning Rug Do the Work

Tamsin Johnson Interiors

If you're feeling stuck and uninspired, a room-spanning rug or piece of artwork can be a great jumping-off point for the rest of the color scheme. Everything in this small living room is inspired by the gorgeous Art Deco rug, from the plaster color-blocked paint to the masculine leather sofas. A lucite table keeps a lower visual profile while speaking to the mirrored ceiling.

10

Forgo Armchairs

Robert McKinley Studio

This simple living room designed by Robert McKinley Studio incorporates tons of texture, from the rug to the shades and the sofa. These casual materials make it feel casual while still being fresh and stylish.

11

Use an Upholstered Ottoman

Paul Raeside

A reupholstered ottoman will play the role of a coffee table, footrest, and even extra seating depending on what you need it for. It's also a great option for anyone with small children or pets since the edges are soft, and it allows for extra pattern plays if you choose something fun like this triangle print in a sitting room by Les Ensembliers.

12

Use Acrylic Furniture

Thomas Loof

Call on lucite and acrylic furniture in small spaces that start to feel visually chaotic. Thanks to their transparent nature, you can count on them to disappear into the background. A waterfall coffee table in this small living room by Ashley Whittaker is a prime example.

13

Strategize With Mirrors

Lisa Romerein

Mirroring all your walls to bounce light may seem like a tall task, but what about just hanging a few separate wall-spanning mirrors and then customizing the frames with one paint color to make them cohesive? The green monochrome situation in this small living room designed by Benjamin Dhong is also inspiring use to layer various shades of one color.

14

Upholster the Walls

Francesco Lagnese

Bring on the cozy vibes with plenty of soft fabrics, and even apply them to your walls! A fabric-covered ottoman, lush blue velvet sectional, room-spanning rug, fun armchair, and upholstered walls. This polished space by Nick Olsen is all the convincing we need.

15

Be Flexible With Seating

AMY NEUNSINGER

In a bohemian living room, pretty much anything goes—but if you need some guidance, try applying this formula: daybed plus side chair, armchair, floor pillows, and a couple of stools. In this case, Commune Design also incorporated a statement rug and task lighting.

16

Take Advantage of High Ceilings

Eliza Carter

Eliza Crater Harris, the great great-granddaughter of Sister Parish, doesn't let limited square footage stop her from incorporating plenty of personality-packed patterns. Ceiling-high curtains elongate the room to make it feel larger and clean-lined furniture prevents the room from feeling too full.

17

Keep It Cozy

Tamsin Johnson Interiors

Leaning into the smallness of a space can actually be what makes it feel genuinely cozy and inviting. Keep seating close together and intimate, pile one textile and rugs in neutral tones, as Tamsin Johnson did here. Then utilize your walls for everything else, from task lighting to colorful artwork.

18

Skip the Sectional

ERIC PIASECKI

If you're short on space, you might have the urge to fill all usable floor space with furniture. But sometimes less is more, especially in small rooms that can quickly start to look over-crowded. Instead of a large sectional, which can sometimes look bulky, float two smaller sofas across from each other with a two-tier coffee table in between, as David Mann did here.

19

Think Outside the Box

Leanne Ford Interiors

Eclectic and organic spaces like this one designed by Leanne Ford Interiors call for quirky seating arrangements and out-of-the-box furniture. Two small stools are painted white for a softer, cohesive, and personalized look in lieu of coffee tables, cushions are piled on top of a ledge as a makeshift softa, and a swing is hung from the low ceiling.

20

Separate Zones With Area Rugs

WILLIAM ABRANOWICZ

Area rugs separate the different zones in this studio apartment designed by Peter Frank. There's also plenty of accent seating on deck but out of the pathways when not in use, a small space strategy that always delivers.

21

Install Smart Lighting

Tamsin Johnson Interiors

Choose lighting that can be attached to the walls or hung from above to save room on floor space like in this room designed by Tamsin Johnson Interiors. Swing-arm sconces also free up space on the floor and bring dimension to the walls, an ideal situation for small living rooms.

22

Let the Light Pour In

Heidi Caillier Design

This living room triples as an open kitchen and small dining room, so Heidi Caillier stuck with an edited selection of just a few items in the lounge area: A sofa, coffee table, and chair. And she used semi-sheer curtains to let the light pour in throughout the entire room. Even if you don't have large windows and tons of sunlight, choose lighter shades to maximize the light you do have.

23

DIY a Barn Door

Mylene Fernandes

City apartment dwellings give "small" a whole new meaning. But designer Shari Francis has plenty of tricks up her sleeve to outsmart limiting floorplans. Tip number one: Separate an alcoved bedroom from an adjoining living room with a sliding barn door to enhance privacy and give yourself dedicated spaces for different activities (it's a relatively DIY project and there are plenty of cool, affordable options on Etsy, like this one). Tip number two: A smaller sofa is better than a bulky one that takes up the entire room, and one armchair is better than two if it means keeping a pathway clear—plus, asymmetry is chic.

24

Choose a Coffee Table With Storage

DAVID A. LAND

The carefully collected yet laidback vibe in Elizabeth Georgantas's Nantucket living room is the perfect setup for a small space. An upcycled trunk stands in for a coffee table and provides hidden storage for extra throws and loose gadgets and a small sofa is an appropriate scale for the proportions of the room.

25

Choose A Large Rug

Shade Degges

Choosing a larger rug—even in a bold pattern—is a trick that makes a room feel bigger. Unlike smaller rugs, the large size doesn't visually break up the floor. This can also help anchor the space and give you a good staple piece to design the rest of the room around. Corner seating can also help you get more out of your space, as it does in this room designed by designed by Katie Ridder.

26

Layer Coffee Tables

Fantastic Frank

So a set of nesting tables are too small for your room but a super large and bulky coffee table is also out of the question. Layer two streamlined coffee tables for a sleek Scandinavian approach like the firm Fantastic Frank did here.

27

Use One Part of a Sectional

Joshua McHugh

Fewer but better pieces is the winning formula in a small living room. So ditch the classics and opt for smaller alternatives, like a daybed or one piece of a sectional and a small side table instead of a coffee table. Raji RM added one to complete this reading nook so there's a home for books and tea.

28

Build In Shelving

Robert McKinley Studio

Whether you inherit a place with an awkward nook or you're making some renovations to an existing space, build in shelves for extra decorating and/or a storage zone (floating shelves are also an option if you can't build in). Or, build the bottom shelf so it has enough room to be an extra seating option. Keep them the same color as the wall, as Robert McKinley Studio did here.

29

Pick a Dark Paint Color

Paul Raeside

Dark, glossy walls create a sophisticated backdrop for simple, clean-lined pieces and even colorful, bold items. Use the small space to your advantage and make it feel like a jewel box. Painting your ceilings the same color can enhance the sense of intimacy even further. Then have fun with brighter furniture throughout, as in this small living room designed by Andrew Felsher.

30

Play With Scale

Nicole Franzen; DESIGN: Leanne Ford Interiors

Don't be afraid of making a big statement in a small space. There's a difference between clutter and well-curated collections or dramatic design moments. In this modest living room designed by Leanne Ford Interiors, we love how the over-the-top, formal chandelier creates contrast and intrigue.

31

Fill the Room

Heidi Caillier Design

Admittedly, this contradicts some of our previous tips, but, when done well, you can fill the whole space with furniture without making it feel overcrowded or claustrophobic. Take this living room designed by Heidi Caillier for example. The cozy modular seating (sectional and chair) fits neatly in the space while the neutral carpet, grasscloth wallcovering, and full drapes enhance that sense of intimacy and warmth. The coffee table provides surface space but visually disappears and there's no need for a floor lamp when you can attach a matching sconce.

32

Use Unexpected Furniture

Winnie Au

Choose strategic furniture and decor that accommodates your smaller space and helps you achieve the look you're going for. In this case, Anthony Dunning slid a slim, tall pedestal into the corner to prop up a large floral arrangement and draw the eye up, accentuating height instead of cluttering the floor with a squat side table.

33

Display Artwork Strategically

Eric Piasecki

Bring your artwork up to trick the eye and expand or accentuate the height of the room. A gallery wall might seem too busy for a small space, but it can actually make it feel larger if it extends to the ceiling. In this family room designed by Katie Ridder, the mirrored effect of this glossy red paint on the ceiling makes the small space feel larger—and more glam.

34

Swap a Sofa for Club Chairs

Shade Degges

If you don't have room for both a sofa and club chairs, forgo the sofa and opt for two cozy armchairs like designer Jae Joo did in this sitting room. If there's a fireplace, angle them towards it to encourage cozy hangs and conversation while also drawing the eye to it.

35

Get Creative With Low Seating

Paul Raeside

A lower sofa or settee creates the visual effect of higher ceilings. Playing with proportion and scale—like using a tiny side table next to a daybed—will also help. Just add pillows to make it more comfortable for lounging.

36

Customize Seating

Laure Joliet

If you're working with an oddly-shaped and small living room but you think you'll be in the space to stay, it's worth investing in custom furniture that suits and elevates it. This curved sofa in a light-filled sitting room by Reath Design is proof enough.

37

Build Banquettes

Romanek Design Studio

If you're trying to transform a little bonus area into a small living room, take a cue from this swanky little nook designed by Romanek Design Studio. Banquette seating instantly transports you to a speakeasy or European train car (we'll happily take either option). Bonus points if you equip your coffee table with a classic game.

38

Stick to a Tight Color Story

James Merrell

As we've mentioned a few times already, a small space doesn't mean you can't have fun with color. So if you love incorporating pretty pastels or vivid brights but want to make sure your living room doesn't look chaotic, the trick is to stick to a tight color palette. Mixing patterns is also fair game, especially when done as masterfully as this cheerful room designed by Ellen Kavanaugh.

39

Paint Your Walls White

Paul Raeside

Keep walls and ceilings all white to brighten up the space. Large black-and-white artwork is eye-catching but won't add clutter, as shown in this room designed by Andrew Flesher. That way you can make a colorful piece of furniture the focal point of the room, and it won't feel like the walls are closing in on you.

40

Float Your Furniture

Alexandra Ribar; DESIGN: Leanne Ford Interiors

Resist the urge to push all of your furniture up against the walls. If you create space behind the furniture, it makes the room look wider than it is. An antique stool vibes well the Chesterfield sofa in this room designed by Leanne Ford.

41

Hang a Chair

Hecker Guthrie

Swing chairs are super fun and seem to be having a design moment right now. More importantly, they can be a life saver in a small living room or family room. You can add seating without taking up a ton of floor space, like you would with a traditional armchair. This mod style in a Hecker Guthrie-designed space is all the convincing we need.

42

Shrink Your Sofa

Douglas Friedman

In designer Ann Pyne's New York City apartment, a small red settee fills the entire living room with personality. A leopard print stool and matching pale yellow armchairs ensure plenty of seating, too.

43

Make It Multi-Purpose

Josh Franer; DESIGN: Leanne Ford Interiors

When space is lacking, the only option is to get creative and make things multi-purpose. For example, if you don't have room for a separate living room, family room, and home office, combine each concept into one space. This living room and office by Leanne Ford proves that the right layout and pieces can look great, no matter what shape or size the room.

44

Build Shelving

Trevor Tondro

Use ottomans in place of a traditional coffee table to make better use of your space (because a tiny house means your living room often does double or triple duty when people come over). You can top them with a tray to hold flowers and books, or use as extra seating. Then when it's family time, they become footrests. These red leather ottomans in a small family room designed by Redmond Aldrich strike that perfect balance between formal and casual.

Hadley Mendelsohn Senior Editor Hadley Mendelsohn is House Beautiful's senior design editor and the co-host and executive producer of the podcast Dark House.

32 Small House Interior Design Ideas

When you live in a small house or apartment, fitting in everything you need is difficult. Trying to fit everything and make it look good is an even bigger challenge, but that's what makes small space design so fun: Coming up with clever solutions to those obstacles makes it all the more rewarding in the end. Luckily for you, we've got quite a few small space tricks up our sleeves, with hacks ranging from hanging beds to hidden storage, tricks of the eye, and more. Whether you live in a studio apartment or want to get more out of a tiny room in a small house, these small space design ideas will make it feel so much larger while maintaining style.

1

Incorpoate Reflective Materials

Rustic White Photography

Opt for white lacquered walls and glossy tiles, as designer Brian Patrick Flynn did here. The high-shine materials are reflective and will generate the same maximizing effect that a mirror will, bouncing light and making for a generally airer space.

SHOP TILES Zellige Tiles, $2

2

Opt for Pocket Doors

House Beautiful

Pocket doors with glass windows allow for shared light to flow throughout the space while also creating separation. And even better, they slide right into the wall when not being used, taking up much less space than swinging doors.

SHOP DOORS IKEA Sliding Doors, $180

3

Add a Gallery Wall

TREVOR PARKER PHOTOGRAPHY

Though it may sound counterintuitive, covering a wall floor-to-ceiling can make a small space feel larger. In Rudy Saunders's apartment, an assortment of framed works (plus an overscaled watch clock!) draw the eye up, making the 375-square-foot studio feel more expansive.

SHOP GALLERY WALL KIT Frame Sets, from $166

4

Be Resourceful

Trevor Tondro

When space is limited and you don't want to shop for new, bulky furniture, use a chair as a side table and install wall sconces to save surface space. A cheerful color, like this pale turquoise hue, is also a good idea to set a happy mood in a tiny room.

SHOP SCONCES Arc Mid-Century Sconce, $79

5

Think Vertically

Nick Glemenakis

By hanging subway tile vertically—rather than the more common horizontal hang—designer Eneia White makes this modestly sized bathroom feel both taller and more streamlined. A tight palette of black, white, and blush prevent it from feeling cluttered.

SHOP TILE Subway Tile, $2.79

6

Hide the Utilities

Frank Tribble

For the restaurant at The Cornell Inn, Toledo Geller used drapery to cleverly conceal pipes and HVAC, creating an elegant canopy while avoiding visual chaos.

SHOP DRAPERY Navy Blackout Curtains, $31

7

Hang a Swing!

Nicholas Sargent

Since it doesn't take up any literal floor space, a swinging seat gives the appearance of a much more open room. For proof, look at the daybed Tiffany Brooks hung in this room at the Kips Bay Palm Beach showhouse.

SHOP SWINGS Hanging Daybed, $953

8

Shrink Your Dining Table

Tessa Neustadt

Small round tables aren't just for breakfast nooks. Ditch the giant dining table and give yourself some extra space by opting for a small, round dining table instead, like Emily Henderson did here.

SHOP TABLES Marble Dining Table, $999

9

Use a Day Bed

Toledo Geller

Add a day bed and watch your bedroom double in size. If you don't have a designated guest room, this could also come in handy in your living room.

SHOP BEDS Monarch Hill Daybed, $672

10

Maximize Shelving

Lesley Unruh

In this Manhattan apartment, Cece Barfield Thompson corralled the owner's books and accessories into one room, where built-in shelves—complete with gallery lights—make the items look deliberate. The best part? This library doubles as a dining room in the small apartment.

SHOP GALLERY LIGHTS Picture Light, $399

11

Express Yourself Everywhere

Anthony Dunning

Yes, even on the fridge—no, especially—your fridge and other bulky appliances. Since there's limited space for extras and less room to pile in all your favorite items, you'll need to beautify everything. Here, Anthony Dunning turned a regular old refrigerator into a design opportunity by dressing it up in removable wallpaper.

SHOP REMOVEABLE WALLPAPER Peel and Stick Paper, $150

12

Mount Your TV

Hecker Guthrie

A media console is the biggest space waster in a small living room. Mount your TV on the wall or above a fireplace and you'll regain necessary floor space.

SHOP WALL MOUNTS TV Wall Mount, $30

13

Hide Your TV

KARYN R. MILLET

Or, even better, hide it! Whether inside of a credenza or disguised as artwork, this design trick is perfect for anyone whose living room is always their family room, dining room, and/or more.

SHOP MEDIA CABINETS TV Stand, $300

14

Do Double Duty

TREVOR TONDRO

Pieces that can serve multiple purposes are key: Find a table that can function as a desk and dining table, get a deep sofa that can double as a guest bed, or buy cubes that serve as a coffee table and bonus seats when guests are over.

SHOP SEATING Storage Ottoman, $315

15

Take Advantage of Architectural Quirks

Shade Degges

Every single inch counts in a small house, so be sure to take full advantage of architectural quirks—this way, they'll actually become your favorite thing about the space. That radiator by your window? Invest in a pretty radiator cover and customize a cushion so you can use it as a window nook to read and relax in. (And you'll be able to forgo the bulky couch that'll take up half the studio!) Pile on the pillows and add a pendant light for tasks, as Jae Joo did here.

SHOP RADIATOR COVERS Radiator Cover, $255

16

Use Mirrors

Sara Tramp

It's the oldest design trick in the book: Mirrors will make your space feel larger, lighter, and airier. And a fun convex one like this adds a lot of personality without taking up a ton of space.

SHOP MIRRORS Mirror Plates, $16

17

Make Every Piece Count

Bjorn Wallander

Choose furnishings that offer maximum functionality in minimal square footage. For example, instead of an end bench, opt for a desk with a small side chair. You can use it for work, getting ready, and more.

SHOP DESKS Writing Desk, $68

18

Think About Scale

Corinne Mathern Design

If your kitchen doesn't have an island and you don't have a living room that's separate from the kitchen, don't give up on making it functional. Opt for a tall wooden table that can provide some extra counter space for cooking and as a two-top dining table. Use this one in a kitchen by Corinne Mathern Studio as your blueprint.

BUY SMALL ISLANDS Counter Table, $125

19

Keep It Neutral

deVol Kitchens

Calm, even-toned rooms fool the eye into thinking they're more spacious than they are. Make sure to add a variety of textures to keep the space from falling flat.

SHOP PILLOWS Velvet Pillow, $6

20

Convert a Closet

David Kaihoi

Designer David Kaihoi used some seriously smart storage solutions to make his New York City apartment work harder—including creating this compact laundry "room" in his closet. That way, when he's not doing laundry, he can close the door on these eyesore appliances.

SHOP LAUNDRY MACHINES Washer and Dryer Unit, $1259

21

Customize Storage

Fantastic Frank

Bespoke built-ins, storage nooks, and furniture tailored to your exact needs can utilize every available sliver of space. When they're part of the walls, you don't lose nearly as much valuable square footage. And extra storage under a bench helps, too.

SHOP BENCHES Storage Bench, $449

22

Create Zones

Ngoc Minh Ngo

In interior designer Max Sinsteden's studio, he made his sleep zone feel separate from the rest of the room by hanging a super high curtain and then suspending a floating painting to break it off even more. "I hate seeing a bed from the front door, so I added a curtain to partition that space. When you close it, you honestly feel like you're in a Parisian hotel," he tells us. This means you can entertain, too, without feeling like everyone's hanging out in your bedroom. "A small space doesn't hamper me from inviting 50 people over."

SHOP CEILING TRACKS Ceiling Track, $90

23

Use All Available Surface Space

Fantastic Frank

Even a windowsill can provide extra storage space for decor, lighting, and other essentials when there's no room for an extra table.

SHOP SHELVES Floating Shelf, $20

24

Get a Wall Desk

Nicole Franzen

Think you have no room for an office? Think again. A mounted wall desk takes up way less room—and you can even mount shelves above it for even more storage space. Designer Tariq Dixon transformed an unused corner by installing a wall-mounted desk.

SHOP DESKS Floating Desk, $65

25

Use Strategic Seating

Hecker Guthrie

Opt for extra seating that can fold up and be super compact so you can store it away while the guests aren't over. A stool like this one in a living room designed by Hecker Guthrie is perfect.

SHOP STOOLS Royal Design Folding Stool, $136

26

Use Bigger (But Fewer) Furnishings

Maltsev Design

It may seem counterintuitive, but outfitting a small space with just a few large-scale pieces (rather than a mishmash of pint-size furniture) can actually make it feel grander. Resist the urge to push all of your furniture up against the walls. If you create space behind the furniture, it makes the room look wider than it is.

SHOP BED FRAMES Canopy Bed, $1,299

27

Go Big in a Small Space

Peter Murdock

It's easy to overlook a room when it's super tiny, especially because there simply isn't enough useable space for décor. But it's definitely possible—and well worth it—to elevate and personalize these little rooms. Take this powder room in Ailana Michelle Ralph's home, for example. With a light blush pink wall color and a surrounding gallery of eclectic artwork, the small room packs a lot of punch.

SHOP FRAMES Gilt Frame, $39

28

Build Up

Fantastic Frank

Exploit the often under-utilized space between the tops of furniture and a room's ceiling with hanging or high-mounted elements. Take bookcases and cabinets all the way up—it'll make the room feel higher.

SHOP CABINETS Kitchen Cabinets, $489

29

Forgo Bulky Pieces

Studio DB

Though the under-the-sink storage can be great, larger vanities with a lot of drawers and cabinets can end up looking oversized and awkward in small spaces. In this bathroom designed by Studio DB, the dainty marble vanity has plenty of surface space and the extra towel tracks and hooks take care of the storage needs.

SHOP TOWEL BARS Towel Bar, $50

30

Build a Partial Glass Wall

Fantastic Frank

Tear down walls, enlarge windows, or swap solid doors for glass to open up views and connect adjacent spaces.

SHOP HARDWARE Glass Door Sliding Track, $200

31

Incorporate Good Lighting

Eric Piasecki

Good lighting will make or break any room–big or small. Make sure to especially install good lighting in smaller, cramped spaces like a bathroom with a tiny window, as shown in this gorgeous space.

SHOP LIGHTS Mount Ceiling Light, $23

32

Edit Yourself

Victoria Pearson

You don't have to display everything. After all, nothing makes a room feel smaller than clutter.

SHOP SHELVES White Shelf, $397

Hadley Mendelsohn Senior Editor Hadley Mendelsohn is House Beautiful's senior design editor and the co-host and executive producer of the podcast Dark House.

options for furnishing the room, interior photo

At first glance, it may seem that decorating a small space is much easier than a large one. However, professional designers will tell you that this is not the case. The main task is to create not only a beautiful, but also the most functional interior.

There are many interior solutions that can make the design of a small room very stylish and comfortable.

Simple rules

Content

  • Simple rules
    • Bright base and bright accents
    • Light furniture
    • Light
    • Decor
    • Ergonomics
  • Videos: 20 tools for a small apartment.
  • 50 interior design options for small rooms:

There are simple rules that will help make the design of a small room comfortable and cozy. nine0003

Light base and bright accents

This is well illustrated by Scandinavian design. The walls and ceiling are decorated in white (or other light) shade. We leave bright and saturated colors for decorative elements or minor interior items (chest of drawers, shelves).

If you take into account certain planning tips, correctly select finishing materials and decor, the room will visually become much more spacious.

Opt for glossy paint or wallpaper. Glare of reflected light will make the room visually more spacious. nine0003

Cool tones, unlike warm ones, will also make the room visually more spacious.

Modern style is the most suitable option for those who do not want to experiment with design.

If you don't like monochromatic wallpapers, choose with ornaments or floral prints, as long as the pattern is not large. Large patterns "steal" the space and therefore they are used exclusively in large rooms.

Choose a solid color floor covering, preferably a light shade, as the diamonds on the parquet or laminate will make you “stumble”, it will be uncomfortable for you to be in such a room. nine0003

The photo shows a modern design of a small rectangular room.

Don't zone your walls with different colors. For a small room, this is not the best option, as it turns into a mix of tiny zones.

Ditch conventional swing doors for sliding doors. This will save you from having to leave a "dead zone" for opening doors.

In such a room there should be high-quality lighting penetrating into all parts of the room. nine0003

Light furniture

Even if the walls, ceiling and floor are properly finished, massive furniture can hopelessly spoil the situation. Interior items should not clutter up the space, which is already small.

Designing a small living room involves elegant furniture and light colors in the decoration.

Here are some correct options:

  • Glass and acrylic furniture. A table and shelves made of transparent materials are a fashion trend. They look weightless. And do not worry about the safety and security of the operation of such items. Modern glass furniture is strong enough that even if it is damaged by a very strong impact (which is unlikely), it will not be dangerous for your family members or pets. nine0014
  • Sofa and wardrobe with legs. An interesting feature: the open space under the furniture is perceived as an extension of the room, and the room seems more spacious. A modern option is hanging furniture. She seems to be floating in the air, but at the same time she copes with the functions assigned to her.
  • Open shelving without side walls. Such designs let in light and air, do not look massive and do not burden the space.
  • Simple designs. Choose furniture without unnecessary details, for example, give preference to a simple bed, rather than a massive sofa with voluminous armrests and lots of pillows. nine0014
  • Try to place the furniture close to the walls. Thus, you can save the central space in the room.

And before you buy any piece of furniture, take careful measurements. A well-known saying: “measure seven times, cut one” is just about choosing furniture for small rooms.

A seat near a long wall can be occupied by a sofa.

Lighting

Lighting in any room has long ceased to be used only to make it brighter. Lamps, floor lamps and sconces are spectacular decor, they do an excellent job of zoning space. They help to emphasize the advantages and hide the flaws of the room. nine0003

The design of a small living room should be designed in 2 or 3 neutral and muted light shades.

To make the ceiling appear higher, use a row of spotlights, the light from which will be directed upwards.

Arrange several wall lights instead of one central chandelier. The light will be diffused, and due to the reflection in mirrors and other glossy surfaces, the room will appear larger.

A more restrained color scheme without contrasting or too bright inclusions will create a stylish design and a calm atmosphere in the hall. nine0003

To “lengthen” the room, arrange the wall lights horizontally in a row on one of the short walls.

Installing floor lamps and sconces will make the interior deeper and more interesting.

Monochrome color scheme is considered a very original design technique.

Decor

Do not think that in a small space it is better to give up decorative elements. On the contrary, with their help you can slightly adjust the space. nine0003

Don't leave your shelves empty, but avoid the other extreme: filling them with lots of cute things. The best option is a pair of medium-sized souvenirs on a shelf, placed in such a way that the edges of the shelf remain free.

Living plants or flowers in vases are ideal for decorating the hall.

If you are a fan of large floor vases or plants of impressive size, then place them in the farthest corner from the entrance.

When placing photos and paintings on the walls, discard a dozen small photo frames. Hang one medium size on the wall, placing it exactly in the center of the wall. nine0003

The walls of the living room can be decorated with a pair of large canvases with three-dimensional images or mirrors in unpretentious frames.

"Play" with the design of the window opening. Remember that long curtains hide space, and an open window visually adds square meters.

A very interesting design trick: mirrored surfaces are placed above the sofa, under the ceiling, on the window slopes. This life hack does not carry a practical load, but the room visually seems much more spacious due to the reflection of artificial and natural lighting. nine0003

It is not recommended to decorate a window opening with too pompous curtain ensembles and heavy curtains.

Ergonomics

When refurbishing a room, or after a refurbishment, it is recommended to carry out an ergonomics test. Try walking around the room with your eyes closed. It is important that you do not stumble upon anything during such a “journey”. These can be the edges of furniture, floor lamps, decor items, and so on.

For a harmonious and at the same time effective look of the living room, choose high-quality cladding, which is distinguished by its special aesthetics. nine0003

Some practical tips on how to unload a room:

  1. Install open shelving with removable drawers. They must be large enough.
  2. In no case do not install a corner sofa in a small room: it takes up a lot of space and will interfere with movement.
  3. Instead of a hanging hanger, choose a floor hanger.
  4. If possible, remove the threshold from the room. Because of it, the space turns out to be closed and uncomfortable. nine0014
  5. If circumstances permit, install built-in furniture. This is the most ideal option for small rooms. It will be possible to place all things, and the design itself will take up a minimum of space.

Efficient use of space

Often, small rooms have to literally invent the possibilities of placing interior items. Here are just a few options:

  • Table based on a wide window sill. This is a great opportunity to organize a work area using a minimum of space for this. Complement it with compact chairs that, if necessary, can simply be pushed under the table to free up space. nine0014
  • Bed in the closet. This decision today is unlikely to surprise anyone, it is very popular among the owners of small rooms.
  • Pieces of furniture pulled up. This is a variant of ergonomic furniture, when bedside tables and cabinets are maximally extended upwards, and occupy a minimum space in width.
  • Using containers. Since it is impossible to place all the necessary things in a small room, or those that will be required in the next season, use containers. They will fit both outerwear and shoes, and under a bed or sofa they can be hidden from prying eyes. nine0014
  • Say "No!" unnecessary things. Alas, almost everyone does this. It can be very difficult to part with things that we no longer wear or use in everyday life. By conducting a regular audit in closets or under sofas (beds), you can save enough space for the necessary things.

White, beige, light green and blue are the most popular colors for decorating a small room.

Finally, let's talk about what absolutely cannot be done:

  1. Apply wallpaper with a border. They divide the room into two parts, which only emphasizes the limited space.
  2. Avoid an abundance of decorative elements.
  3. Bright print, photo wallpapers and variegation are not for small rooms.
  4. Do not use stone (neither natural nor artificial) in the decoration. This "heavy" material will only withstand a large space.
  5. Arrange furniture only at the edges. The central location is possible only for spacious rooms. nine0014
  6. Heavy doors, especially those made in dark colors, split the space and make it even smaller than it really is.
  7. When choosing a floor finish, remember that in a small room it should be as neutral as possible.
  8. Thick and textured curtains will make the room visually smaller. It is better to leave window openings open, and if you still want to decorate a window, use roller blinds or light curtains.

A small room is quite a difficult object to create a harmonious and comfortable interior. And, nevertheless, by listening to simple tips, you can make sure that modest square meters do not catch your eye, but rather give the impression of a spacious and bright room. nine0003

You can always dilute the atmosphere with the help of home accessories - bright pillows, paintings or indoor plants.

VIDEO: 20 furnishing ideas for a small apartment.

50 interior design options for small rooms:

10 ideas for decorating small spaces

Agree that decorating the interior of small rooms is quite a difficult task. The wrong color for a room of this size can lead to a feeling of isolation, and too much furniture can “heavier” the space. Professional interior designers are real master illusionists who can give a small room more air with the help of various tricks, which you can learn about in this article. nine0003

1. Don't use dark colors

Have you ever been in a room with dark colors, dark furniture and dark carpets? One gets the impression that such a room "presses" on you. This is a common problem with dark shades, which is especially common for residents of small rooms. For such rooms, it is necessary to use light shades, for example, blue, light gray, green, beige and other neutral colors.

2. Don't be afraid to make bold decisions

Some people reject bold solutions for small spaces. For example, many people are afraid to decorate the walls with canvas paintings, use large floral and graphic prints, and use vertical or horizontal stripes. An interesting fact is that horizontal stripes visually enlarge a small room, while vertical stripes create the impression of high ceilings. A small space will take on a whole new life if you are not afraid to use large prints. You should not decorate the interior of such rooms with tiny prints, as they will create a feeling of heaviness and chaos. nine0003

3. Pay attention to the proportions

Do not use large furniture, such as a sofa, in a small room, as it will draw all attention to itself and “eat up” your space, which is already small. Too small a sofa may seem quite tiny in such a room. To achieve balance, you need to use a harmonious number of large and small items. For example, you can place a bookcase along the wall in such a room, and small elegant chairs next to it, or put a low table next to massive furniture. nine0003

4. Do not use a contrasting color on the floor and walls

When you enter any new room, your eyes unconsciously follow from the floor to the wall and then to the ceiling. If these three planes are made in the same color, then the boundaries between them will be less noticeable, due to which this space will merge together, which will visually enlarge the room.

5. No need to clutter up the room

A random amount of objects in a small room creates the same feeling as dark walls. If a room is crammed with furniture, knick-knacks, collectibles, pillows, and more, it will appear smaller. To maintain a sense of freedom, you need to choose a few important items for the interior, in your opinion, and focus all your attention only on them, thus realizing your creative ideas without sacrificing space. You can put up shelves for family photos, but don't put mementos on the table. Try to be minimalist. nine0003

6. Arrange furniture correctly

So, you have furniture of the right size and want to arrange it so that you can move around the room without problems. To achieve this, we recommend placing the sofa and chairs away from the wall, which will create depth in your space and open up a lot of the floor, making the room appear larger. Another tricky move is to use the same tone in the furniture and in the color of the floor. nine0003

7. Don't forget about lighting

A small room with poor lighting will look like a cave - this is an inevitable fact. A properly lit room should have three light sources that bounce off the walls, visually expanding the room. Use table lamps, mirrors, or mirror stickers in addition to natural light to create the illusion of a larger room.

8. Don't use complicated window decoration

Small rooms can be overwhelmed by bulky window decoration. Do not use voluminous curtains and a wide lambrequin, which will interrupt the light entering the room, as well as visually break the wall. In this case, you should pay attention to light curtains. nine0003

9. Don't Forget the Architectural Details

Plain, undecorated walls look very dull, but you can decorate them with architectural details, such as architectural stucco wall panels. The main thing - do not overdo it!

10. Don't Ignore Vertical Space

Once all the furniture is in place, it may be obvious that you don't have a place to store small things.

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