A Guide to Decorating a Small Apartment
Create an Illusion of Space with Light
Let's paint a picture. After a day of apartment hunting, you've found the perfect one. It's situated in an excellent neighbourhood, within your budget but there's one difference - the size factor. It's smaller than what you envisaged. When it comes to petites spaces, every square foot counts. So, how can you maximize style in a limited space? This comprehensive guide will walk you through some brilliant ideas to decorate your small apartment to make it look spacious, stylish, and welcoming.
Go Minimalistic
Dimly lit rooms feel small and claustrophobic. Natural light opens up a space, making it look larger. As Jennifer Koper, a celebrated interior decorator advises on her blog, "Keep window areas clear to welcome in as much sunlight as possible, and consider using sheer curtains instead of heavy ones to let light through while providing privacy."
If natural light isn't an option, don't fret. Clever use of artificial lighting can also create an illusion of more space. Consider installing various light sources in the room â overhead, task, and accent lights. These will diffuse light, improve functionality, and contribute a lot to the aesthetic appeal.
Make Use of Vertical Spaces
Minimalism is not just an art movement â it's a lifestyle. The fundamental idea is to keep things simplified, functional and clutter-free. The fewer items you have in your room, the bigger it will appear.
Unclutter Your Space
Vertical space is often overlooked but it's your best friend in a small apartment. Floating shelves, vertical planters, or tall skinny bookcases draw the eye upward, creating a sense of height and spaciousness. Plus, they offer extra storage and display spaces.
Multi-Functional Furniture: The Game-Changer!
One of the essential steps in decorating a small space is to keep only what you need. Sorting out what to toss, keep, or donate can be overwhelming. Thankfully, Marie Kondo, an organizing consultant, and author of the best-selling book "The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up" has made decluttering an achievable task with her KonMari Methodâ¢.
Color it Right
Invest in pieces that serve more than one function. A futon or a sofa bed can be used for sitting in the daytime and as a bed at night. Your coffee table could also serve as storage space if it has drawers or a lower shelf.
Mirrors for More Space
Light colors on walls reflect light, making a room look bigger and brighter. Whites, creams, pastels, and cool color tones help create a spacious feeling.
Think Big
Mirrors are magic in smaller spaces! Place a large mirror near a window or opposite a light source, and let it create an illusion of depth, reflecting light and views.
Embrace the Coziness
Include one big statement piece instead of numerous small ones. It could be a large painting, a floor-to-ceiling bookshelf, or a sizable rug. Such elements draw attention, making the room feel larger.
Once you've done your best to make the space look bigger, embrace the beauty of small space. After all, a smaller space means less to clean and more intimate gatherings. Lit scented candles, add comfy throws, and plenty pillows for a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Remember, the measure of a beautiful home is not its size but the joy it brings to your life. So welcome to your new apartment, and enjoy the journey of making it your unique space.
