Unleashing the Potential of Compact Living
Many of us may think that small spaces are restrictive and not a feasible long-term solution for living. Indeed, they present unique challenges and limitations, but these constraints force you to think creatively, to find innovative solutions to really make the most out of the space.
Whether in a compact apartment, a tiny studio, or a small room in your home, there are many clever ideas that can change the way you live.
I have put together a list of top tips that can hopefully inspire you on how to maximise functionality and storage, while still creating a beautiful and open space that you can be proud of.
1. Choose space-saving furniture
Look for furniture that is designed specifically for small spaces. Avoid bulky pieces of furniture with a lot of drawers and cabinets as they can end up looking oversized and awkward in small spaces. Opt instead for slim-profile sofas, loveseats and armchairs that take up less floor space. Consider wall-mounted options such aswall-mounted shelves or vanity units. Furniture that can be easily rearranged or folded away like extendable dining tables, fold-up wall desks or Murphy beds. In living rooms, nesting tables are also a great space-saving solution. Also, clear or acrylic furniture has a minimal visual footprint and can create an illusion of more space.
2. Opt for multi-functional pieces
Choose multi-functional furniture pieces that serve more than one purpose. For example, a sofa bed can be used for seating during the day and as a bed at night. Look for storage solutions like ottomans or coffee tables with hidden compartments. This allows you to adapt the space to your needs and create more open areas when needed.
3. Think vertically
Make use of vertical wall space by installing shelves, wall-mounted storage, or hanging organisers. This helps keep the floor area free and creates additional storage options. But also, when it comes to your bathroom, for example, you can use subway tiles vertically rather than horizontally to make your bathroom visually taller and more streamlined.
4. Maximise natural light
Light plays a crucial role in making small spaces feel larger. Keep window areas unobstructed and use light-coloured curtains or blinds to allow natural light to enter the room. Avoid heavy drapes that block light and make the space feel smaller. If you do not have much natural light coming into the room, make up for it by adding plenty of light sources: eye-catching pendants or elegant flush mount ceiling lights as well as wall lights, table and floor lamps for more ambience.
5. Use mirrors and reflecting materials
Mirrors can create an illusion of depth. You can use a large mirror or creating a gallery wall with mirrors of different sizes and shapes. Place them strategically to reflect light to visually expand the area. A similar effect can be achieved with high-shine materials that are reflective, like glossy tiles.
6. Choose light colours
Light and neutral colours on walls, floors, and furniture tend to make spaces feel more open and airier. Use a monochromatic colour scheme to create a cohesive and spacious look and add a variety of textures to keep the space from looking too “flat”.
7. Clear visual clutter
Keep surfaces and floors as clear as possible to avoid visual clutter. Use smart storage solutions to organise items and keep them out of sight. A clutter-free space feels more open and relaxing.
8. Create visual continuity
Use consistent flooring and colour schemes throughout the space. This helps create a sense of flow and continuity, making the space feel more cohesive and larger.
9. Incorporate hidden storage
In a small house, every single inch counts! Look for opportunities to incorporate hidden storage spaces in every possible corner. For example, under-bed storage, or floating shelves with concealed compartments. You can cover a radiator and use is as a console table or create a storage bench by the bay window or in an alcove. Don’t forget that you can also use the back of doors as storage. Attach a spice rack to the inside of your pantry door, install over-the-door hooks or racks, hang a shoe or bag organiser, install a fold-out ironing board.
10. Mount your TV
Mounting a TV on the wall eliminates the need for a TV stand or bulky furniture to support it. This frees up valuable floor space, allowing you to use it for other purposes.By mounting the TV on the wall, you can position it at an optimal height and angle for comfortable viewing.
Small space really offer an opportunity for greater personalisation and uniqueness. With limited space, you have the chance to showcase your personal style and preferences in a more concentrated manner. You can experiment with bold colours, unique patterns, innovative storage solutions or unconventional furniture arrangements to make the space truly your own.
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ABOUT MIKA DESIGN STUDIO
Mika Design Studio is an interior design studio on a mission to make a positive and meaningful impact on our clients’ lives; inspire them on the use of creativity and sustainable materials to create authentic interiors that organically evolve with them.
We are based in Royal Leamington Spa (Warwickshire, UK) but also operate online nationwide. We provide Consultation and Home Staging services for properties to sell, Re-design & Styling services for serviced accommodation/buy-to-let properties, and Online Interior Design for single bespoke rooms.
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