Maximizing Small Spaces: Design Tips for Apartments and Condos
Living in a small space doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style or function. Whether you’re in a city apartment, a cozy condo, or a guest house, it is possible to create a space that feels spacious, organized, and totally you.
Over the years, I’ve helped clients make the most of every square foot. Here are some of my favorite small space design tips that really make a difference.
1. Think Vertical
When floor space is limited, go up. Install floating shelves, tall bookcases, and wall-mounted cabinets. Use vertical wall storage in kitchens, offices, and bathrooms, anywhere you can take advantage of unused height. Don’t forget the backs of doors and closet walls, too.
Designer tip: In small living rooms, a tall gallery wall or vertical art piece draws the eye upward and makes the space feel bigger.
2. Choose Multi-Functional Furniture
If a piece can do more than one job, it’s a win.
A bench with hidden storage
A bed with drawers underneath
A dining table that doubles as a work desk
A sofa bed for guests
Nesting tables that can expand when needed
Invest in furniture that earns its keep.
3. Go Light, but Layer
Light, neutral tones make a room feel more open, but that doesn’t mean everything needs to be white or beige. Add depth and interest by layering textures like linen, wood, leather, or boucle.
If you love bold color? Use it as a pop in a rug, art, or accent chair.
4. Use Mirrors Strategically
Mirrors reflect light and visually double a space. Place them across from windows to maximize natural light or behind furniture to create the illusion of more square footage.
Quick fix: A large mirror leaning against a wall can make a big impact without needing to drill into anything.
5. Be Smart with Layout
Even small spaces need good flow. Avoid pushing everything against the wall, it can actually make a room feel tighter. Instead, float a sofa or add a rug to define zones within a space.
Think about how you move through the room, and arrange furniture to support that.
6. Declutter + Contain
Clutter is the enemy of small space living. Keep surfaces clear, use baskets and bins to group items, and make “edit and donate” a regular habit.
Built-ins and custom storage can be a game changer, especially in closets, entryways, and kitchens.
7. Create Zones
Even in a studio or open-concept layout, your space can have “zones” for living, working, dining, and sleeping. Rugs, lighting, and furniture placement help define those zones without adding walls.
Pro move: A small console table or bookcase can double as a subtle room divider and extra storage.
