20 Clever Ways to Make Your Studio Apartment Feel and Look Bigger
If you live in a big city like New York or L.A ., there’s an excellent chance you’re living in an apartment that’s as big as your childhood bedroom—and you’re probably paying as much as many people do on a mortgage. While a teensy living space may seem like the worst thing ever, believe it or not, there are ways to make the most of your studio apartment using some clever decorating tips.
When living in a small spaces, literally every single inch counts. There are so many small changes you can incorporate into your small space to make it feel larger and more open.
Click through the slideshow to see our tips on how to make the most out of your studio apartment.
A version of this article was originally published in October 2014.
Hidden Storage
This multifunctional bedside table is such a great idea and great use of space: Use multicolored, vintage suitcases as a sidetable and stuff items you might not need right away, like winter clothes.
Photo: Cupcakes and Cashmere
Let in the Light
The more natural light you can let into your apartment, the larger and more welcoming it will feel.
Photo:
gravityhomeblog/Instagram
Photo:
momagency/Instagram
Use Floating Wall Shelves
One great way to store things without cluttering your space is on the walls! Use floating wall shelves to keep all your items in place while adding some character and color to your walls.
Photo: Better Homes & Gardens
Paint Your Walls White
If you don't want a white ceiling, then opt for white walls; they're amazing for many reasons. First, they're going to make your space feel more open and spacious—that's something every studio apartment can use. Also, it gives you the chance to change around your color themes through your time in the apartment!
Photo:
meanttobe_midcentury/Instagram
Anything Foldable Is Your New BFF
Beds, tables, desks—anything: If it comes in a foldable version, it should be in your apartment.
Photo: Kokopelia Interior Design
Or, Go Bold!
It's true: You can have some fun and give your walls a dark, broody, yet playful pop of color.
Photo: Reed Davis/HouseBeautiful
Opt for Long Curtains That Start at Your Ceiling
To make your room look taller (in turn, making it feel larger), hang up a pair of long curtains starting at the ceiling.
Photo: The Inspired Room
Or, Use Curtains to Break Up the Space
You can also hang up a curtain, such as the canvas curtain pictured, to create separate rooms. It's also a great way to hide clutter when you have unexpected guests.
Photo: Bob Martus and Jessica Weit/Design*Sponge
Use a Bed That Can Double as Storage
Rather than piling books, folders, clothings, and blankets all around your tiny place, find a bed that can double as storage. By keeping it out-of-sight, it will make your space look neater and keep you from going insane from the clutter!
Photo: IKEA
Use a Wall Divider
We totally suggest using a divider like the shelving unit pictured because you can also use it as a storage device to house all your books, trinkets, and other home decor items. It'll also help break up your space and make it feel larger.
Photo: Better Homes & Gardens
Accessorize like Your Space Is Huge
Don't be afraid to make your small space look like a million bucks with chic accessories like shag rugs under chairs, matted and framed art, and fresh plants.
Photo: Apartment Therapy
Hang Up Mirrors
They'll make any room appear larger because of their reflective quality. Bonus points for using cool, on-trend tinted ones like the mirrors pictured.
Photo: Matthew Williams for Remodelista
Install Cabinets Above Your Bed
Doing so will help keep clothing and other stuff out of sight. Even better, add recessed lighting to the bottom of those cabinets—the brighter and cleaner your studio, the bigger it'll look.
Photo: Decor8
Store Pretty Objects out of Reach, but in Sight
Even the ceiling is fair storage game when it comes to tiny apartments.
Photo: Apartment Therapy
Color-Code and Organize Practical Objects—Including Food
And keep them on display as a design touch. If you don't have tons of drawers, cabinets, or a pantry, try artfully arranging boxes of pasta or wine bottles.
Photo: Dwell
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Studio Apartment Decorating Tips to Transform Your Small Space | @stylecaster
