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Introduction
Many people in the urban world today live in smaller homes, such as studios, apartments, or compact townhouses. Small doesn’t have to be boring or limited. With the right decorating strategy, even tiny spaces can feel stylish and spacious.
This article provides clever, space-saving tips to help anyone make the most of their small home. Here’s how to decorate more efficiently and live larger.
1. Select Multi-Functional furniture
Furniture that can be used in two ways is a great way to save space.
Top Picks:
- Futon or sofa bed– Lounge by day, sleep at night.
- Storage Ottomans– Use them for seating or secret storage.
- Tables with drop-leaf – Expand when required, fold when you don’t.
- Wall-mounted desks or tables — Ideal for small workspaces.
Pro Tip:
Furniture with legs visible will make the room appear larger.
2. Vertical Space
If you have limited floor space, consider going up.
Ideas:
- Tall bookcases and floating wall shelves
- Wall organizers for kitchens and bathrooms
- Pegboards can be used in entryways, pantries, and craft areas.
Pro Tip:
Balance your shelves by placing heavier items at the bottom and plants or decor at the top.
3. Reflect Light with Mirrors
Mirrors instantly brighten and expand a space.
Best Practices:
- Place a large, reflective mirror in front of a window.
- Mirrored furniture and accessories can add a touch of modernity.
- Mirrors in a gallery style on one wall create depth.
Pro Tip:
Avoid using too many mirrors. One or two large ones are better than many smaller ones.
4. Keep your colour scheme light and cohesive
The lighter colours will visually expand the room. A consistent palette helps create flow.
Recommended Colours:
- Whites, creams and soft greys
- Pastel shades (mint, blush, sky blue)
- Earthy tones (sand, clay, sage)
Pro Tip:
For harmony, use a neutral base colour and then add 1-2 accent colours throughout the room.
5. Embrace Minimalism
Every piece of furniture in a small home must be worth its place.
How To Simplify:
- Keep surfaces free of clutter.
- Decorate with meaningful or unique items.
- Baskets and bins are great ways to conceal items without creating visual chaos.
Pro Tip:
If you are bringing something new into the house, either donate it or store something else.
6. Create Zones – Even Without Walls
Delineating areas makes small spaces more intentional and organized.
Create zones using
- Rugs can be used to separate sleeping, dining and lounging areas.
- Divide sections by hanging curtains or tall plants.
- Use different Lighting, such as a pendant above the table or a floor light in the living room.
Pro Tip:
Make sure traffic flows smoothly. Leave enough room to move around furniture.
7. Optimize Lighting
Lighting is even more crucial in small rooms, as they often receive less natural light.
Lighting Tips:
- Mix ambient Lighting with task and accent lights.
- Save space by installing wall sconces and clip-on lamps.
- Consider installing under-cabinet or shelf lighting above kitchen cabinets.
Pro Tip:
If you have limited floor space, wall-mounted lamps are a better option.
8. Consider “hidden” storage
It’s not necessary to have obvious storage.
Creative Storage Spots:
- Use bins or drawers to store items under the sofa or bed
- If applicable, inside staircase steps
- Over-the-door organizers for shoes, accessories or toiletries
Pro Tip:
Hang hooks and organizers on the back of cabinet doors for cleaning supplies, pot lids or tools.
9. Decorate vertically
Create vertical displays that are more than just frames.
Ideas:
- Tall plant stand to attract the eye upward
- Vertical wall garden for herbs and flowers
- Tiered Wall-mounted Shelves for Books, Art, or Collectibles
Pro Tip:
Keep lower levels practical and upper levels decorative.
10. Keep It Personalised
Even the smallest house should reflect your personality.
Ideas:
- Hang your favourite pictures in a consistent frame.
- Display books, art, and souvenirs that inspire you.
- Add character to a “statement Wall” by adding fabric or wallpaper.
Pro Tip:
Even a small gallery or set of unique cushions can make a big difference.
Conclusion: Style is not measured in square feet
It’s not necessary to have a big house to make a beautiful house. With the right design and creative thinking, small spaces can be just as cosy, luxurious, and expressive as large homes.
