How to Maximize Space in a Small Apartment
While living in a small home or apartment can sometimes feel claustrophobic, there are ways you can turn your home into a comfortable and decorative space. Many people and families who live in small apartments find challenges when trying to make the home look and feel bigger. It is possible, however, using some basic common sense and creativity.
Make Use of the Space You Do Have
Your apartment should be able to use one living area for multiple functions, regardless of whether you have a family, many roommates or if you live in a one bedroom or studio apartment. For example, your dining room or kitchen table can also serve as a work desk for your laptop when you are not eating meals, a dining room table when you are eating, or even an additional work area for other hobbies or crafts. If you have a bar area in your kitchen, you can use it not just for dining, but also for entertaining guests, sitting and added counter space when you are cooking larger meals. Consider investing in a futon or a sofa bed for your living room to create a couch by day and a guest room by night.
Use All Storage Areas
Scour your apartment for additional storage areas, both vertical and hidden. Invest in open shelving, hang shelving units over doorways or purchase a tall china cabinet to store and display books, collectibles and other décor. Utilize the area under beds for additional storage and install additional vertical storage units in closets to maximize the amount of storage space you have available. To get the most out of your closet space, arrange your shelving units in double tiers and vary the heights of the units.
Choose the Right Colors
Believe it or not, color and natural light can make your apartment feel larger. To maximize the visual space in your apartment, use neutrals, muted tones and lighter colors. Not only will your home look larger, but it will also feel larger and you will feel cozier. Avoid choosing different colors for different rooms, as this can portray a “compartmentalizing” atmosphere in which rooms are blocked off. Instead, choose one, unifying color and carry it from room to room. Define each room with décor and accent walls instead so that your apartment appears as if it is one big space.
Use Stylish Furnishings
Living in small or cheap apartments doesn’t mean you have to give up on style. One of the biggest advantages to small spaces is that you do not have to purchase lots of furniture. However, this means that the few pieces you do have must be stylish and eye-catching. Purchase an ornate headboard for your bedroom or an eye-catching entertainment center to make your apartment fun. Walls are just as important, so choose wall decals, artwork and murals to make the walls come alive.
When you use some of these tips, you will not only maximize the physical space in your apartment but you will also give the illusion that your apartment is bigger than it really is.
LowlncomeApartmentFinder.com helps consumers find affordable apartments and make the most of small apartment living.
