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56 smart ideas for tiny living

56 smart ideas for tiny living | loveproperty.com

56 smart ideas for tiny living

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Live large in a small space

Pottery Barn

If your home is a little on the small side, you shouldn't have to make sacrifices when it comes to your floor plan. Armed with a little creative thinking, you might just be surprised by what you can achieve. From shapeshifting furniture to slimline appliances and nifty storage hacks, here's how to make your layout work harder for you and transform a tight corner into a terrific living space. Click or scroll on for more...

Divide and conquer

Room dividers are a great way to maximise the functional space in your home. While traditional solutions might include screens or bookcases, why not subvert convention and use a headboard or a footboard to zone off your sleeping spot from the rest of the room? This MALM design creates a visual boundary without compromising light flow.

Stack drying racks

Overstock

When counter space is in short supply, it doesn't make sense to clutter up your kitchen with a large drying rack. Instead, opt for a vertical unit that fits over your sink – not only is it the most logical spot for drainage, but it frees up plenty of valuable preparation space. This nifty design features hooks for larger utensils, as well as baskets for sharp knives.

Put up a peg dado rail

Making space for a new arrival is no small task, especially if your bedroom has to double up as a nursery. Whether your scheme has a dado rail installed already or not, a makeshift rail of pegs is a great way to add architectural interest and helpful hanging storage. Ideal for holding clothes, it keeps everything accessible at a moment's notice.

Hide storage in the ceiling

It's all too easy to forget about the fifth wall: the ceiling. For bedrooms short on space, this nifty solution conceals a ceiling storage rack behind a retractable fabric canopy that can be pulled back when access is needed. It's a smart way to put that redundant height to good use

Get creative with corners

Target

While many of us have swapped the office for home sweet home, not everyone has the square footage for a separate workspace. But if you think creatively, you can squeeze a productive home office into an existing living area. Corner desks are a great way to utilise that empty space at the back of the lounge or that redundant nook in your bedroom.

Plump for a platform bed

South Shore

If you want to make the most of every inch of floor space your bedroom has to offer, consider elevating your bed. A platform frame opens up valuable storage capacity below – these handy cubby holes are the perfect size for pull-out baskets, perfect for holding everything from clothes to electronics and mementos.

Mix up modular seating

For ultimate flexibility, choose a modular sofa made up of individual pieces that can easily be moved around to suit the needs of the room, thus eliminating any wasted space. They're also brilliant as room dividers, separating the living and kitchen areas in an open-plan home.

Invest in a pull-out sofa bed

Gone are the days of uncomfortable sofa beds, so you can rest easy choosing one as your everyday settee. Not only will it serve a daily function, but it’ll also come in handy when you have guests to stay. Choose a compact version if space is very limited and check it can be fully extended. Look out for designs that have room inside for bedding.

Dine off a convertible table

West Elm

No lap tray makes up for the absence of a dining table, even if it’s got your favourite pet dog’s face on it! Instead, choose clever convertible furniture like this double-duty coffee table that easily lifts up to the right height for eating. Plus, it’s got a nifty storage spot inside.

Use moveable storage

GamFratesi

Working from home is becoming more popular, but you don't need an all-singing, all-dancing office. With space to keep some paperwork, a notebook and a few pens, a nifty pull-down unit like this can tick all the boxes in a small home. Hang a fold-up chair nearby and you’ve got yourself just about the smallest home office around! 

Fall for floating cabinetry

Jodie Johnson / Shutterstock

Wherever possible, opt for floating wall units, especially in small spaces such as bathrooms. It’ll give you the illusion of more space as the floor area will appear larger. A wall-hung cabinet with a ceramic basin fitted on top allows for ample storage but doesn’t feel cramped as you can see the floor below. 

Use moveable storage

Photographee.eu / Shutterstock

Rather than committing to permanent fittings, it’s best to use freestanding units that you can move around. Stackable crates are ideal as you can shuffle them about and reconfigure them as desired. Trolleys on casters are perfect too as they can be wheeled around the room and tucked away when not in use.

Plant vertically

Lulu and Isabelle/Shutterstock

If garden space is limited, affix crates or planters to the outside wall so you can grow flowers, herbs or even veggies. It’s a simple way to hide ugly bricks or a fence and also brings colour and life to an otherwise dull space. This works just about anywhere and looks especially cool on balconies.

Make walls work overtime

Create a feature wall with storage by using hanging boxes that you can fit into any formation you like. It will give you space to store books and display accessories, while also acting as a focal point. Rooms appear bigger when the scheme is neutral, so going bold for your storage display will really make it pop.

Choose concealed storage

The French Bedroom Co

Ottomans are a great go-to for anyone that is short on space and seating. Working as a bench, footstool or even a coffee table, this classic piece conceals invaluable storage. Brilliant for hiding away bedding, cushions, children's toys and more.

Use extendable clothes dryers

Garden Trading

If you don’t have a utility room, let alone space for a tumble dryer, then opt for a wall-mounted rack instead. A pull-out dryer, with extra hooks and a shelf above, can easily be fitted over the bath or high on a kitchen wall. It will hold enough for a standard load and keep everything out of the way.

Pull down an occasional table

Pottery Barn

If you don’t have the room to keep a table up all the time, but do have some free wall space, then consider a fold-down design. A great way to squeeze in an eating area, this nifty model folds flats against the wall when not in use. Keep fold-up chairs or stackable stools nearby.

Build seating into fixed cabinetry

John Lewis of Hungerford

If you’re planning a new kitchen, think about building seating into an island or a run of base units. It’s much more space-efficient to have a banquette – with storage inside – opposed to a standard table and chairs. Not starting from scratch? Then think about how you can introduce bench-type seating into your existing layout – a window seat is a suitable place to start.

Put awkward recesses to use

Merlyn Showering

One to consider when you’re planning a new bathroom or kitchen, as you can build openings and shelving into awkward spaces. But this idea can be used anywhere in the home where there is a nook or cranny to fill. Have custom-made shelves fitted into alcoves and under eaves, or simply assemble and slot in flat-pack units to fit.

Install a balcony in the loft

What an innovation – not only is this large roof window great for adding lots of natural light, but it opens out to form a balcony that allows you to step into the great outdoors. Fantastic if you live in an attic flat and don’t have access to a garden or even a traditional balcony.

Cosy up a corner

New Africa / Shutterstock

Rather than choosing a conventional straight sofa, go for a corner style. It will make the best use of space in a small room and seat more people. A mini corner version like this is brilliant for studio living or small apartments and some even come with hidden storage inside. Layer with lots of cushions and throws to make it really inviting.

Swap horizontal shelves for vertical ones

Lewis Alderston & Co

Pay attention to the insides of your cabinets and ensure they’re organised as best as they can be. Dividing cupboards with vertical shelves as opposed to horizontal ones will give you greater space for storing baking pans, saucepans, trays and chopping boards.

Plumb in a compact bath

Waters Baths of Ashbourne

You don’t need to forego a good relax in the tub if your bathroom is rather snug. Just choose a scaled-down, freestanding bath, with a shower over the top. A small 1600mm-long model is all you need to enjoy a soap-sudded soak. Plus, it will free up floor space for a small cupboard or stool.

Make the most of dead space

Bilanol / Shutterstock

Redundant areas can be found in the most unlikely of places so look around your home for any secret storage spaces that may be going unused. In many households, there's a sizeable void underneath the main staircase. Custom-built drawers and cupboards can be made to fit these dead areas perfectly, giving you heaps more storage.

Define areas with drapes

Dunelm

A quick resolution to open-plan living without adding permanent partitions is to divide large rooms with curtains or screens. Secure a pole across the width of the room, or simply pin or staple fabric to the ceiling. It’s inexpensive and instantly zones areas and creates privacy.

Double up on surfaces

WorldWide / Shutterstock

An oversized wooden chopping board is a small kitchen owner’s dream. Lay it over the sink bowl and you’ve instantly created additional workspace for chopping fruits and vegetables. Plus, you’re right near the tap should you need to rinse anything. 

Invest in an ottoman bed

Time 4 Sleep

If your bedroom is on the small size then an ottoman really will transform how you use the space. Light to lift, you can store everything you would normally pop in the wardrobe – clothes, shoes, bags, you name it. Hey presto, you've got yourself a wardrobe that you can sleep atop!

Double your space with mirrors

Original Style

It’s certainly a brave look, but using mirrored tiles will dramatically increase the feeling of space in your home. By allowing more light to bounce around the room, the reflective tiles will visibly push back the walls. It's not just for the bathroom or kitchen either – try this in a narrow hallway, dark alcoves or even on a bedroom wall.

Think on your feet

Austin Maynard Architects

Take a look under the carpet – unless the floor is concrete, you will have been blessed with ample storage space. Lift the floorboards and make better use of the voids below. A good carpenter will be able to build you different storage areas with lift-up lids. Just be sure not to lay the carpet back over the top!

Hang kitchen utensils

Dmitry Galaganov / Shutterstock

Fix narrow shelving, rails and hooks to bare walls to keep utensils, crockery and groceries close to hand. If you choose metal shelves, then you can attach small magnetic pots to their undersides – handy for spices, coffee and tea bags. A two-ring electric hob is a great space-saver as well.

Pick a pop-out single bed

Living it Up

If you live in an apartment, the lack of a spare room needn’t quash guests coming to stay; just be clever with the furniture you choose. Multifunction is key, just like this bed that unfolds from an upholstered ottoman, which by day can be used as a bench, footstool or even a stylish coffee table.

Put a washer-dryer in the bathroom

Cinematographer / Shutterstock

Without a utility room, fitting in a washing machine means taking up much-needed space in the kitchen. Instead, plumb one into the bathroom. Better still, go for a washer-dryer. In the UK, you’ll need to comply with regulations – for example, it needs to be at least three metres from the edge of the bath or shower. 

Bring the outdoors in

Triff / Shutterstock

Plants do wonders for your health and wellbeing, so be sure to fill your home with them, especially if you don’t have a garden. Just don’t overpower small rooms with large plants. Instead, opt for smaller succulents, herbs and mini flower varieties that you can dot about on window sills and shelves.

Hang curtains as high and as wide as you can

Richman21 / Shutterstock

Most often, small rooms mean small windows, which can make them feel even more cramped. To create the illusion of space, call on an expert interior design hack and hang curtains right up to the ceiling so that the windows appear much larger. A darker set drawn back with lighter curtains or voiles used in the middle will enhance the effect even more.

Layer up furniture

Photographee.eu / Shutterstock

Position your bed in front of a bookcase to create a unique feature headboard. It’s a stylish alternative to bedside tables and a great way to use wall space without compromising on functionality. Keep any items you access often on show and tuck the rest behind the pillows and bed base. 

Ditch the standard sink

New Africa / Shutterstock

A single bowl unit with one tap is best when worktop space is tight as it’ll give you more space to cook and prepare meals. The key in a small home is to keep tidy, and a smaller draining board and sink will certainly encourage you to dry up right away. Though, if you can’t bear to go without a separate bowl for rinsing, then you could stretch to a one-and-a half design, but no bigger!

Bring your bike indoors

Photographee.eu / Shutterstock

Free up the hallway by hanging your bicycle on the wall or positioning it on a shelf in your main living zone. It’ll make a fun talking point in the room while saving you floor space. Wall mounts are readily available from a range of interiors and cycling retailers, so tripping over wheels and pedals will be a thing of the past.

Get creative with a cabin bed

When it comes to planning your sleeping zone, try to fit in as much as possible. A raised cabin bed with plenty of storage packed beneath it is a great way to make a limited floor plan stretch further. You can even add elevated shelving above to ensure there's a place for everything.

Swap the kettle for a hot tap

Make space on the worktop by getting rid of the kettle. Go for a stove-top whistling version, or better still install a sleek hot water tap. While it's a little on the pricey side, it's worth the investment as they’re actually more cost-efficient. You’ll only use the amount of water you need, saving time, energy and money.

Choose double-duty furniture

Wall bed

Living in a compact micro-apartment needn't mean having your sleeping area on show to guests all the time. Instead, choose a sofa with a hidden double bed that pulls down from the wall behind – easy to set up at night and pop away again each morning.  

Let in the light

Whether it’s a basement flat or an attic abode, be sure to open up your space with natural light – a pokey kitchen will instantly feel spacious with a window. Roof lights and flexible light tubes are all other brilliant ways to increase the feeling of space in a small, gloomy room.

Install compact space-saving stairs

Premier Loft Ladders

Loft conversions and mezzanine floors are a great way to add value and space to your home, but figuring out where to put the staircase is often limiting and can bring big plans to a halt. Instead, go for a compact staircase with alternating treads that take up hardly any room, are safe for all the family and can be customised to fit.

Choose reflective furniture

My Furniture

Instantly create the feeling of more space with a mirrored bedside table or chest of drawers. Glass tops, chrome fittings and mirrors will practically double the size of the room. All you need to worry about is keeping everything shining with a regular dusting and polishing – no thumbprints here, please!

Fit narrow wall shelves

John Lewis

Compact units hung on the wall near the dining table are just the thing for storing essentials. Glassware, crockery and cutlery can all be kept close to hand without cluttering the kitchen cabinets – practical and space-saving.

Build an extra floor

Dariusz Jarzabek / Shutterstock

While this isn’t going to work for everyone, it’s perfect for anyone living in a lofty property. If the ceiling is high, then there’s likely room for an additional floor, making invaluable use of otherwise wasted space. Build in a mezzanine to create a new room, or if there’s not enough head height, just use it for storage. And don't forget those compact stairs!

Suspend shelving from the ceiling

Photographee.eu / Shutterstock

Keep floors free in a small bedroom by affixing a hanging shelf next to the side of the bed. It’s great for storing books and bedside essentials, just be careful with that morning cup of coffee. Save more space by wrapping string lighting around a headboard instead of using a conventional side lamp.

Hang pans up high

It's very likely that you have a bare wall in your kitchen that you can put to work. A pair of metal rails are easy to fit and ideal for hanging utensils, pots and pans. Not only is it a practical way to save on cupboard space, but it'll ensure commonly used items are always to hand.

Create a library wall

Look up at all that wasted space above your head. Compact living is about making every inch of it work harder for you, so utilising your ceiling and walls will literally double your storage. Get going and install bookshelves from floor to ceiling, fix shelves above windows and doors and hang items from the ceiling.

Divide rooms

John Lewis

Partitions are a great way to create different zones in open-plan living spaces or large rooms. You may want an office within a bedroom but don’t want the two to feel connected. Go for a partial or glass wall when forming 'rooms within rooms', as they won’t block valuable natural light or air. 

Play with smoke and mirrors

Cinematographer / Shutterstock

Okay, so forget smoke, you just need some uber large-scale mirrors to create an almighty illusion of space. Typically adopted by restaurants and bars, this trick is brilliant in small rooms. Just ensure the mirrors are frameless and totally floor-to-ceiling and watch as your square footage skyrockets.

Put your pantry on display

Didecs / Shutterstock

Free up space inside your cabinets by placing jars of dry goods out on the countertop – it's practical and stylish. Narrow shelving is also handy for keeping pots within reach. Label and note the best-before dates to ensure nothing goes to waste and you don't mix up salt and sugar.

Fill every inch of the wall

Rational

You may need a ladder for this one. Install your kitchen cabinets or living room storage right up to the ceiling, working shelving into any recesses or voids created by a sloping roof. Organise the contents so that things you need every day are kept low, while keepsakes and occasional items are stored high. 

Use drawers within drawers

Rational

Layering storage is a great way to save space in a small kitchen. Simply use compartment inserts, separators or internal drawers to utilise voids. Deep drawers just lend themselves to items getting lost, so reorganise and reconfigure. 

Hang shelves around corners

Photographee. eu / Shutterstock

Rather than choosing conventional bookcases and storage units, hang shelves around and in the corners of rooms – usually an area not used to its full potential. Go for open shelves that coordinate with the wooden tones throughout your scheme for a cohesive feel.

Invest in a slim dishwasher

Just because you have a tiny kitchen doesn’t mean you have to be lumbered with the task of washing up every day. A slim dishwasher that fits below the counter is a fabulous compact-living appliance that will save you time and keep your worktops ready for use, free from piles of dirty dishes.

Select a seamless scheme

You can decorate with dark or light colours in a small room, but there is one rule – choose one or two hues and stick with them. It will make a space feel less fragmented, so avoid mixing lots of colours if you can. The trick is to create a streamlined finish where colours seamlessly blend into one another, creating a sense of cohesion and openness. Who says you can't live large in a snug living space?

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10 August 2021

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The 13 best space-saving ideas

(Image credit: Future / David Cleveland)

Large or small, every home could benefit from creating more space. From clearing the clutter using some well-thought-through storage that meets your household’s needs to applying some clever tricks that create the illusion of more space, you can make your home feel far more ordered and spacious than ever before.

Start with a good sort out, and be ruthless, sending things you don’t use to the charity shop, eBay, or yard sales, and the broken and worn out to your local household waste recycling centre. 

In living rooms, storage can be tricky. The key to getting your living room storage spot on is choosing pieces that offer as much multipurpose storage potential as possible.  

Marie Kondo’s hit book The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up suggests grouping remaining belongings by type, and designating one place for each – so all books together, stationery, shoes etc – it helps with organization and will reveal the type of storage needed.

See below for 13 clever space-saving ideas, from the interior experts at Heal's.

1.

Choose a corner sofa

Matera full corner sofa in Nobilis Velvet Rust, from £5,499, Heal's

(Image credit: Heal's)

Small sitting room? Make the most of the little space you have by opting for a corner, chaise or L-shaped sofa. Offering ample space for family and friends on which to perch, a sofa like this can also act as a room divider, breaking up open plan spaces without crowding the room with too much furniture. 

Avoid sofas where the entire seat is built to touch the floor, instead choosing a design with narrow, tall legs - the more floor you can see underneath, the more spacious the room will feel.

Sabrina Miller, Head of Buying at Heal's says: 'L-shaped sofas are known for their functional and space-saving properties. They can double your seating options without occupying a lot of extra space compared to a regular sofa.' 

2. Keep your home office space light and bright

Glide desk in Oak by Says Who, £699; Ch34 Wishbone chair in Soaped Beech by Carl Hansen & Søn, £443; Bolt pendant, £39; Tala Gaia Bulb 6W E27 LED, £35, all Heal's 

(Image credit: Heal's)

Chances are, working from home has been raised to a whole new level in your home this year. When once you may have perched your laptop on your kitchen or dining table, now homes across the country have had to adapt, doubling as comfortable and efficient office spaces, from Monday to Friday each week.

It's important in a multipurpose space like this to ensure the office doesn't spill over into your home life so investing in comfortable, elegant home office furniture is a must.  Look for a desk and matching storage that will blend into your existing decor. Choose pale woods and soft rounded edges to keep the look cohesive.

Sabrina suggests to keep the walls pale in colour: 'If the walls in your make-shift office space are dark, it might be best to revamp your walls to a lighter colour that will allow for natural light to reflect off the walls and make your space appear bigger and brighter.'  

This will also provide a light, bright background for any video calls you may have to make to clients or colleagues.

3. Create the illusion of space

(Image credit: Future/Mel Yates)

One of the easiest tricks to add space to a room is to introduce mirrors. It obviously doesn't actually create space, merely the illusion of it. Adding a reflective surface to wall will act like a window into an adjoining room, giving a more spacious feel while bouncing light around a room. 

Try using an oversized mirror to cover an entire wall, or a cluster of small mirrors together that double as wall art.   

As Sabina suggests: 'If you're looking for more storage in a bedroom, but don’t have the space for another wardrobe, mirrors that can store clothes behind them a great way to add valuable storage space and create a feature.'

4. Invest in a clever console

(Image credit: Future/Polly Wreford)

An elegant console table gives you plenty of extra storage space but also an elegant display to brighten up your living room. 

Built-in drawers are a perfect place to store letters and extra linens can be neatly folded in a basket underneath. A cabinet dresser is also a functional yet attractive way to add storage space to your living room.   

'Sometimes it’s a shame to hide our favorite pieces away, but you can display them while keeping them dust-free with a dresser cabinet,' says Elena Paparozzi, Buyer at Heal's. 'A console table also allows you to display accessories to add color to your room while storing away less show-worthy items.'

5. Use strong vertical lines

(Image credit: Future/Chris Everard)

Use strong vertical lines to draw the eye upwards in a small space. 

Try using a ladder shelf as an attractive way to add vertical lines to your living space while also giving you a creative way to add storage space. You can use the ladder to store books or letters while accessorising with a few plants and ornaments. This will give the illusion of more space.   

According to Elena: 'A tall shelving unit will also work for adding vertical lines to your living area. The industrial trend is still going strong so consider adding an industrial unit which will give the illusion of height and the metal frames are ideal for coping with the weight of numerous books and vases. '

(Image credit: Future/Davide Lovatti)

Coffee tables are an essential feature of our living area and they are also excellent storage solutions. 

Opt for a coffee table with deep drawers and a shelf so that you can optimise the amount of storage.   

'More often than not, your coffee table is covered (think magazines, remotes, coasters, and books), it only makes sense to get a coffee table that doubles as a place to stow away your personal items,' explains Elena. 'For added durability go for a coffee table made from reclaimed wood and a toughened glass top.'

7. Incorporate a sideboard into your scheme

(Image credit: Future/Polly Wreford)

Every living room should have a sideboard, they’re great for hiding away items that you don’t want to be seen. Sideboards with wide tops can also be used to add elegant touches such as lamps, candles and your favourite mementos.  

'Sideboards are a great piece of furniture for any living or dining area, a sideboard will offer plenty of storage space and is the perfect place to display flowers and picture frames,' advises Elena.  

'For a timeless look go for a good-quality oak design as it will stand the test of time and is incredibly stylish too.'

8. Declutter with storage baskets

(Image credit: Future/Jake Curtis)

Baskets are one of the best living room storage ideas. Endlessly useful baskets come in all shapes and sizes – they have a fabulous tactile quality that adds character to a scheme. They are ideal for a pretty way to declutter your living area.   

According to Elena: 'Belly baskets are very on trend and the numerous patterns and shapes available make them ideal for incorporating into any layout. They can be used for storing blankets, magazines and plants.'

9. Save space with wall shelves

Cane sofa bed in Boucle Raven, from £1,999, Heal’s

(Image credit: Heal's)

If space is an issue, getting as much furniture as possible up off the floor gives the illusion of a bigger room. Wall shelves are ideal for this and deep shelves can be used to display and store a range of items such as books, pictures and plants.   

'Stay organized in style,' says Elena. 'A compact shelf design will give you the opportunity to decorate without taking up too much space. Wall shelves turn bare walls into functional storage areas, and, if the shelves themselves are attractive and their display areas are styled well, they can become pieces of wall art in their own right.'

10. Store belongings under the stairs

Massa Bronze ceramic sideboard, £1,899; Solid Shapes print 03 30x40cm by Paper Collective, £45; Solid Shapes print 02 50x70cm by Paper Collective, £25, all Heal's

(Image credit: Heal's)

Nooks and crannies are perfect for storage. You can easily transform the empty or untidy space underneath your staircase into an organised haven using a range of pretty boxes and baskets.   

'Unlocking the potential of this pocket of space can help you find a new home for books, toys or shoes. Without a door to conceal them, it also gives you the opportunity to get creative in how you display your storage. Stack your boxes and baskets into streamlined piles to tidy unsightly clutter.'

11. Maximise space with nesting tables

(Image credit: Future/Paul Raeside)

Nesting tables are ideal for smaller spaces, they can be used around the room for drinks when you need them and then once they are not in use they can be fitted under each other and stored neatly away. You can also add some elegant touches such as house plants and lamps.   

'Nesting tables are great space-saving solutions for small spaces. They allow you to save space without having to compromise on practicality. By opting for nesting tables you save a lot of floor space.'

12. Include bespoke shelving

(Image credit: Future/Brent Darby)

Purpose built shelving is the perfect option for living room storage solutions to make the most out of your space. Tricky alcoves and sloping roofs can naturally lend themselves to built-in storage solutions.   

'There are no limitations with built in shelving units, you can get them designed to fit the space perfectly and they can even be designed to incorporate televisions, books, photos and ornaments. Making the area handy for storage and also a key feature of the room. '

13. Set up a stylish ottoman

(Image credit: Future/Jan Baldwin)

Space is at a premium in small living rooms so furniture that can double up as storage is always a bonus. Storage ottomans are perfect for adding style and storage to your living room.  Whether it’s towels, blankets, bedding or shoes you’re wanting to store away, ottomans make a lovely addition to any room not just your living area.

'Storage ottomans come in all shapes and sizes which makes them so versatile for any size room. You can opt for a beautiful upholstered version in a bold jewel hue for a style statement that works double duty as a secret storage spot.'

Jennifer is the Digital Editor at Homes & Gardens. Having worked in the interiors industry for a number of years, spanning many publications, she now hones her digital prowess on the 'best interiors website' in the world. Multi-skilled, Jennifer has worked in PR and marketing, and the occasional dabble in the social media, commercial and e-commerce space.  Over the years, she has written about every area of the home, from compiling design houses from some of the best interior designers in the world to sourcing celebrity homes, reviewing appliances and even the odd news story or two.

Ideas for saving space in a small apartment - 50+ photos and videos

Author Maria To read 10 min Views 19.4k. Published

Content of Article

  1. Ideas for saving space in a small apartment
  2. Use hard -to -reach places
  3. Eliminate the minimalist design
  4. Choose a half -open furniture
  5. to use the mirrors to expand room
  6. Invest in storage furniture
  7. Use corners and install built-in units
  8. Paint ceilings and walls white
  9. Install floating shelves or storage space
  10. Save space with furniture
  11. Multipurpose items
    12. Nothing extra
  12. Ideas for saving space in a small apartment: photo
  13. 28 video ideas for saving space
  14. Expert advice

The smaller the size of the room, the more difficult it is to place all the necessary interior items and things in it. Of course, the owners of small apartments are constantly wondering: how to save space in a small apartment? We have collected ideas for saving space in a small apartment.

Creating a comfortable atmosphere without sacrificing functionality is very difficult. But this task can be done without even resorting to the help of an experienced designer. You only need to carefully look at your own apartment, determine its features, disadvantages and advantages.

Space Saving Ideas in a Small Apartment

Try to look at all rooms (including the bathroom and hallway) with a fresh eye, identifying the space that remains unused. Turning a small apartment into a functional and stylish living space can be done with a few clever tricks.

Use hard-to-reach places

You just have to look up to see the wasted space. Of course, residents of apartments with high ceilings can make a second floor where a sleeping place or a small wardrobe can fit.

But what about the owners of apartments with ordinary ceilings? They can also use the usable area. For example, a shelf for towels can be made above the front door in the bathroom. Thus, you can unload the closet and free up space in it for clothes and shoes.

If your apartment has a staircase, then it must be used not only for its intended purpose. The ideal option is to turn the entire lower part of the structure into a deep closet. A lot of shelves and drawers will be an excellent storage for all the important (and not so) things.

Another way to save space is to place shelves and furniture in the corner. Very often, apartment owners leave the corners free, not paying attention to them. But in fact, it is these places that can significantly “unload” the space.

Corner shelves are much more spacious than regular ones. You can use them both to create the right atmosphere and present souvenirs and decorative items, as well as to store things. In the latter case, it is recommended to use special boxes for things or put wicker baskets on the shelves.

Another place that many apartment owners forget about is the empty space under the bathroom. Here you can store buckets and rags, a broom, a dustpan, a mop and detergents. Carefully covered with a special screen, these items will not be "striking". And the bathroom cabinet can be occupied with tubes and jars that are more important to you.

Clean up the mess

Spring cleaning isn't just for spring! The simplest idea for saving space in small apartments is to tidy often. The less stuff you have, the bigger your apartment will look! Before you dive into the layout and design of your apartment, start by removing unnecessary items.

Try minimalist design

Clear lines and no clutter are the main elements of a minimalist apartment. Over-decorating will downsize your already small living spaces, so integrate this contemporary apartment design to make the most of your space.

Choose semi-open furniture

Don't let dense, bulky furniture block natural light or movement! Bookshelves, chests of drawers, nightstands, and other partially open items create a spacious feel in your studio while leaving room for empty space.

Use mirrors to make your room look bigger

Reflective surfaces create the illusion of a taller and wider apartment. Whether it's adding spaciousness to your bedroom or opening up a cramped living room, mirrors will expand your small apartment.

Invest in storage furniture

The best furniture for small apartments is versatile. From bed frames with built-in drawers to opening pews and ottomans, choose versatile pieces that do double duty.

Use corners and install built-ins

Corners can seem like a waste of space if not used properly. Whether it's an L-shaped sofa, a TV cabinet, or a shelf, these "corner" designs can fit neatly into a room and save space.

If you have awkward wall niches, install built-in shelves for books or favorite items. Built-in wardrobes or vertical cabinets can give you extra storage space without exposing a massive piece of furniture to the room.

Paint ceilings and walls white

Another popular technique is to use neutral colors on walls, floors, ceilings, baseboards and upholstery. Tones such as off-white or beige create the illusion of expanding space and can also brighten up a room by reflecting light. Dark colors in a small space absorb light, making the room look smaller. However, you can always add splashes of vibrant color with upholstered furniture or wall art to keep it from looking too bland and bland.

Install floating shelves or storage space

Furniture doesn't always have to be on the floor. Depending on how strong your walls are, you can wall-mount hanging shelves, cabinets, TVs, or set-top boxes to free up valuable floor space.

For home offices, it can be convenient to hang small items on wall rails as you have more space on your desk, making it less cluttered. Just remember to check what's behind the wall before you start drilling holes everywhere. For example, pay attention to the wires and measure them correctly so as not to create an eyesore.

Save space with furniture

Avoid a lot of interior items. The fact is that a small area does not allow you to install them all, while maintaining the comfort and stylish look of the apartment. It is better to limit yourself to a few necessary pieces of furniture, but not to "overload" the space.

How to do it? The easiest way is to give up all the extra . Do you need a coffee table, chest of drawers, sofa and bed? If you know that you cannot do without certain items, then look for transformer models. So, for example, a sofa bed will immediately replace 2 massive pieces of furniture. By installing it, you can receive guests on a stylish sofa during the day, and enjoy sleeping on a comfortable and spacious bed at night.

If you prefer to hide the bed during the day, then pay attention to interesting models where the bed is removed in the closet. They guarantee space and freedom of movement during the day and are ideal for very small rooms.

The convertible table looks like a small object because it is close to the floor. On such a coffee table you can put a vase with fruits and sweets, a cup of coffee, newspapers and books. But you will want to dine at a full and high table. Lifting mechanisms turn a coffee table into a dining table in a couple of seconds. We found very interesting and ergonomic models in the online store rai-mebel.ru.

Multifunctional things

Transformers are not the only way to use things for several purposes at once. The easiest way is to combine the main function with a decorative or storage function. Beds and sofas can be equipped with built-in drawers for storing linens. In them you can hide pillows and blankets, freeing cabinets and cabinets.

In addition to these, manufacturers often provide space for important little things in the window sills. You will no longer need a bedside table, which will increase the useful area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe room.

Books can be stored, for example, not only on shelves and racks. You can hide books in special compartments inside coffee tables, armchairs and even poufs. Designers even offer very bold furniture options, where magazines and books act as the main material.

Do not forget that multifunctional appliances take up much less space than all their simpler counterparts. Get a climate station instead of an air purifier, ionizer and humidifier. You can save free space.

Install a food processor in the kitchen, don't hide the mixer, juicer and meat grinder. You will notice how much free space will appear in your kitchen cabinet.

Nothing superfluous

Once and for all give up unnecessary things. The more incomprehensible little things will be located in your apartment, the smaller it will seem. Empty closets of clothes you don't wear, remove old unnecessary magazines - overloaded space visually reduces the room.

And, of course, a small apartment should be in perfect order. If things always lie in their places, then optically the room will look more spacious. Little things forgotten on the table or sofa can be put away in a special basket or box. So you can always keep order, and you will also know exactly where to look for forgotten items.

Ideas for saving space in a small apartment: photo

28 video ideas for saving space

See also: Interesting Solutions for a Small Apartment

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Photo by Andrea Davis on Unsplash

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7 ways to save space in small apartments.

In 2017, studio apartments and simply small apartments in new residential complexes of economy and comfort class occupy up to 70% of all apartments. And in every third interior project, Mossebo designers work with a studio or room of 8-9 square meters. The secrets of the competent organization of the space of a small apartment lie not only in the visual expansion of space, but also in creating places for storing things and saving space even on minimal elements.

In the interior of small apartments, many features must be taken into account - the compactness of functional areas, low lighting, but one of the main problems will always be the lack of space and storage areas. In classic apartments, people are "rescued" by pantries, mezzanines or large wardrobes. In the case of a studio, you have to choose: store things at home, get rid of the “extra” or rent storage space. We will discuss how to find a compromise between these solutions and save space in the apartment as much as possible.

Transforming furniture

To save space, the first and obvious solution is transforming furniture. The simplest examples are a sofa bed, an extendable table and folding chairs, but there are more original options. This is a mirror-shelf with secret drawers for storing jewelry or cosmetics, and hidden consoles with folding furniture. The use of such solutions is always associated with a compromise - so you should not choose a convertible sofa as your main bed if you are not ready to fold it every day.

Matryoshka furniture

Another focus is matryoshka furniture. Several pieces of furniture are inserted into each other and take up 3-4 times less space. This avoids the effect of clutter, while not using flimsy folding furniture. There can be many examples; the most common is benches, stools, coffee tables inserted into each other, but there are also original solutions - chairs hidden in a rack.

Compact nursery

If you need to fit a children's room in a small apartment, you can put a bunk bed. At the same time, ceilings are desirable from 3 meters, otherwise the upper tier will be too close to the ceiling. If one child lives in the room, then a study or play area can be placed in the lower part. And if there are two children in the family, then both tiers will be occupied by beds. To ensure that each child has a personal space for privacy, you can install curtains on the sleeping places. Usually, such a bulky piece of furniture as a bunk bed is installed close to the wall or in the corner of the room.

Hidden handles and little tricks in the kitchen

The real problem is to organize a complete kitchen on extreme 6 meters. Namely, this is how much the kitchen occupies both in the old Khrushchev houses and in the new studios. You can save space by increasing its comfort. Therefore, the handles on the doors should not eat up space, and they should be replaced with hidden hinges and a click-on system. These doors open with a light touch. The hidden light in the cooking area and in the dining area will also save money, because in a fresh repair there is nothing worse than portable lamps with a mountain of wires.

Window sill countertop

Using window sill space for a work area or kitchen needs is an affordable solution in all apartments where the wet area and window are properly located. It is worth recalling that a standard plastic window sill is not suitable for the needs of the workspace. The expansion of the window sill occurs due to the countertop, which can be wooden, stone, quartz or artificial stone. It is worth processing the joints with high quality and calculating the window openings, considering ways to protect against moisture and temperature extremes.

The space under the windowsill can also be adapted. The simplest solution is to slide bar stools into this niche, but you can also place larger items, such as a washing machine or dishwasher. Some use a window sill to accommodate the kitchen area, install a stove and oven, in this case, you can do without the hood and open the window when cooking.

Ergonomic zoning

Partitions can be used furnished when zoning space - these are special racks that take on the storage function.

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