Small Space Solutions: 10 Designer-Approved Tips for Maximizing Your Home

As someone who spent 15 years living in small NYC apartments, I can tell you firsthand that small space living presents both joys and challenges. The cozy intimacy of a studio apartment or a compact family home can foster closeness and efficiency, but it certainly demands creativity to maintain style and functionality! While maximizing every square inch can feel daunting (trust me, I get it!), I’ve found it’s an opportunity to curate a space that truly reflects your lifestyle and priorities. The key lies in clever design solutions that blend form and function seamlessly. From multi-purpose furniture to smart storage ideas, there are countless ways to make your small space feel expansive and inviting. 

Here are 10 of my favorite small-space tips to help you unlock the full potential of your compact living spaces.

1.Multi-Functional Furniture

In small spaces, every piece of furniture should earn its keep. When sourcing for small spaces, I look for highly functional items that serve multiple purposes, for example a storage ottoman that doubles as extra seating, or a dining table that can transform into a work desk. A murphy bed or sofa bed can instantly convert your living area into a guest room when needed.

2.Vertical Storage Solutions

When floor space is at a premium, it’s time to look up! In past projects, I’ve utilized walls for storage by installing floating shelves, hanging organizers, and floor-to-ceiling bookcases (my personal favorite!). This not only frees up valuable floor space but also draws the eyes upward, creating the illusion of a taller room. 

3.Light and Mirror Magic

Strategically placed mirrors work wonders in small spaces. In my own Park Slope apartment, I placed a large mirror opposite a wall of windows, which maximized natural light and made the room appear much more spacious. Another trick I love is opting for light fixtures that direct light upwards to create a sense of height and openness. 

（cr:@daryrem6）

4.Color and Pattern Strategies

While dark colors can make a space feel cozy, they can also make it feel smaller. In small spaces, I typically opt for lighter colors on walls and any larger furniture pieces to create an airy feel. That said, this doesn’t mean you have to stick to all white! I use bold patterns and pops of color in window coverings, accessories, and smaller items to add personality without overwhelming the space.

（cr:@daryrem6）

5.Declutter and Organize

The oldest and cheapest trick in the book! In small spaces, clutter is your enemy. Adopt a minimalist approach and regularly assess what you really need. I recommend investing in clever storage solutions like under-bed boxes, over-door organizers, and drawer dividers.

(cr:@diymom.ca)

6.Smart Technology

In small space projects (and in my own home!) I embrace smart home technology to save space, decrease visual clutter, and increase functionality. A few of my go-to shifts include wireless speakers instead of bulky sound systems, smart thermostats instead of wall units, and streamlined voice-controlled lighting.

7.Space-Saving Appliances

When it comes to appliances in small spaces, I always prefer compact. Many brands now offer apartment-sized versions of refrigerators, dishwashers, and washing machines. I recommend a combo washer-dryer unit or a compact dishwasher if space is really tight.

8.Optical Illusions

I love using design tricks to create the illusion of more space. I’ve opted for vertical stripes on walls and floor to ceiling curtains to make ceilings appear higher, and I’ve used striped rugs in a number of projects to make a room look longer (plus stripes are having a serious moment!). In small spaces, I like to choose furniture with legs to create a sense of openness, and I incorporate glass or acrylic pieces to maintain visual flow.

(🎥:@crystal.belle.home)

9.Maximize Outdoor Space

PSA: Don’t forget about your outdoor areas! Even a tiny balcony is an opportunity to create an extension of your living space. I like to use stylish folding furniture that can be easily stored, and always add potted plants for a touch of nature (a small herb garden is great for both beauty and functionality!).

(cr:@stefanasilber)

10.Embrace Minimalism

While it may be tempting to fill every nook and cranny, sometimes less truly is more. Don’t be afraid of negative space! It can make a room feel larger and more serene. I typically choose a few statement pieces rather than cluttering a space with many small items. 

I worked on a makeover of a small Brooklyn apartment where we implemented clever storage and custom design solutions to make every inch count. In the entryway, we opted for stylish wall-mounted cubes with doors versus using a traditional console table. This served as both hidden storage for entryway clutter and a landing place for keys, while simultaneously preserving valuable floor space. I selected a vintage Danish secretary to provide a hidden desk and extra storage, which helped to maintain a clean aesthetic when not in use. And one of my favorite pieces in this project was a custom keyboard table we designed. It was tucked into a nook beside the sofa, painted to blend seamlessly with the wall, and featured built-in storage for music books and cords. 

Living in a small space has taught me that it doesn't have to mean living small – in fact, small spaces are filled with big potential! With these tried-and-true tips, you can create a home that feels spacious, functional, and most importantly – uniquely yours. Remember, the key is to be intentional with every item and every inch of space. Embrace the challenge of small-space living, and you may find that it leads to a more organized, efficient, and ultimately more satisfying lifestyle.

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