My first apartment was so tiny I felt like I was living inside a baby’s fist. It was cute, and I had minimal space to clean, but I was constantly dodging furniture and tripping over my own thoughts. Despite being in a very convenient and safe location, I got tired of feeling claustrophobic and eventually moved out. It probably would’ve worked out if I had been a little more creative.
Don’t be like me. If you love your space but feel too snug, you can transform your compact living area into an expansive oasis. Bigger living spaces don’t always mean they’re better, and with how expensive housing is currently, your wallet will thank you for making do with fewer square feet. You can make the most of your tiny house as long as you know what to do (and get rid of that dark purple wall).
Follow these tips to help you and your living area breathe a bit easier. I scoured the internet for the best tips from home decorators and home designers to give you some great starting ideas for maximizing any small space.
1. Lighten Up with Color
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Choosing the right color palette can make your space feel more open. Light hues like whites, creams, and pastels reflect light, creating an airy atmosphere.
Dark colors tend to absorb light and can make a room feel cramped. So if you’re thinking about painting, opt for lighter shades on your walls to give the illusion of space.
2. Use Mirrors Strategically
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Mirrors are your best friend in a small space. They reflect light, making a room feel brighter, and also create an optical illusion of depth. Position a large mirror across from a window or in a well-lit area to maximize the natural light bouncing around your space.
Consider using mirrored furniture or decor to enhance this effect further. A reflective coffee table or shelving can add dimension while still being functional.
3. Choose Multi-Functional Furniture
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You don’t want to have too much furniture when you’re also constrained by space. Look for multi-functional furniture, such as a sofa bed or an ottoman that doubles as storage.
This way, you can maximize your square footage without sacrificing style or comfort. Think creatively about how you use your furniture. An expandable dining table can accommodate guests when needed, while a stylish bookcase can also serve as a room divider.
4. Declutter Regularly
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Nothing makes a small space feel smaller than clutter. Make it a habit to declutter regularly—donate items you no longer use or need, and give your space a fresh start.
This frees up valuable space and allows you to appreciate the items you truly love. Cleaning will also be significantly easier when you can actually get inside your closet.
5. Embrace Vertical Space
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When your floors aren’t enough, use your walls. Go taller and utilize vertical space by installing shelves on the walls. This allows you to display books, plants, and decorative items without taking up floor space.
This draws the eye upward, making the room feel taller and more expansive. To create an open feel, hang planters, wall-mounted organizers, and floating shelves.
6. Create Zones
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It’s very easy for everything to blend together in your small apartment and it soon feels like one big living room that also has a bed and a cooker. Defining different areas within your small space can enhance its functionality.
Use area rugs to delineate living, dining, and workspace zones. This organizes your layout and adds depth and interest to your room.
7. Keep Window Treatments Light
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Heavy curtains can drag a room down, making it feel smaller and darker. Opt for lightweight, sheer window treatments that allow natural light to flow in freely.
This keeps the space bright and airy while still giving you some privacy. If you love traditional curtains, try mounting them a bit higher than the window frame. It gives your walls the illusion of taller ceilings and makes the windows look bigger.
8. Go for Open Shelving
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Open shelving is a great way to display your favorite items while keeping everything accessible. Instead of bulky cabinets that can close off a space, open shelves create a more inviting atmosphere and allow for light to pass through.
When styling your open shelves, mix functional items with decorative ones. This helps to create visual interest and keeps the shelves from feeling cluttered.
9. Use Light Fixtures Wisely
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Lighting can significantly impact how spacious a room feels. Opt for multiple light sources, such as floor lamps, table lamps, and wall sconces, to create a layered effect.
They will brighten up dark corners and add depth to your living space. Consider fixtures that are visually light or have a transparent design, like a glass pendant light.
10. Use Artwork Wisely
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Art is a fantastic way to express yourself, but you need to be smart in how you incorporate it into your space. Large pieces can dominate a small room and make it feel even smaller.
Smaller artworks arranged in a gallery style or using one or two medium-sized pieces can maintain a sense of balance. If you want to make a statement, consider a large mural or wall sticker.
11. Keep It Minimal
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Minimalism isn’t just a design choice; it’s a lifestyle that can help keep your small space from feeling overwhelmed. The fewer items you have, the more spacious your area will feel.
Don’t go filling your walls and surfaces with every piece you love, choose a few standout items that reflect your style.
12. Incorporate Plants
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Bringing the outdoors inside can create a refreshing feel in your home. Plants add a pop of color and a bit of life to any area, making the space feel more open.
Choose varieties that thrive in small spaces, like succulents or snake plants. They will purify the air and make your small space feel even fresher.