Dream Big With These Tips to Maximize Your Space
Our Insider Guide to apartment design has big ideas for how to maximize every last inch of your space. We’ve curated the most amazing tips from expert design professionals to help you make your apartment home the relaxing space of your dreams.
Go Vertical
Designers consider the vertical space in your apartment a majorly untapped resource for maximizing space and bringing a sense of airiness to an apartment. Think floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, hanging planters, and wall-mounted storage solutions, all of which can free up valuable floor space while also adding visual interest to your walls.
Consider installing non-marking floating shelves in the kitchen for spices and cookbooks, or use a pegboard in your home office to keep supplies organized and easily accessible.
Choose a Cohesive Color Palette
A thoughtful, cohesive color scheme can make any apartment home feel even more put together and polished. Consider sticking to a neutral base and then adding pops of color with your accessories and artwork. This approach allows you to easily switch up your decor without overwhelming the space.
Embrace Multifunctional Furniture
In truly intentional interior design, every piece of furniture should earn its keep. Look for items that serve multiple purposes, such as a coffee table with bonus hidden storage, a bed with underfoot storage, or an ottoman that doubles both as overflow seating and a place to stash cushy blankets.
Expandable dining tables are perfect for many apartment kitchens, allowing you to accommodate extra guests without taking up valuable floor space when not in use.
Maximize Natural Light
A well-lit space always feels larger and more inviting. Keep window treatments minimal to let in as much natural light as possible, or utilize sheer curtains or bottom-up blinds that allow light in while maintaining your privacy. Strategically placed mirrors can also help bounce light around the room, creating the illusion of more space.
Declutter Regularly
One of the most effective ways to make an apartment home feel even more spacious is to simply have less on display. Adopt a minimalist mindset and regularly assess your belongings. If you haven't used something in the past year, consider donating or selling it. For items you use infrequently, look for off-site storage solutions or creative ways to store them out of sight.
Use Mirrors Strategically
Mirrors are an apartment designer's secret superpower. Not only do they reflect light and create the illusion of more space, but they also are wonderfully utilitarian accent pieces. Consider placing a large mirror opposite a window to maximize natural light or use mirrored furniture to add depth to a room without taking up visual space.
Opt for Sleek, Low-Profile Furniture
Steer clear of bulky and oversized furniture, which can quickly make even a large room feel cramped. Rather, select pieces with slim profiles and raised legs to create a sense of airiness. A low-profile sofa or armchair set can make your ceiling appear higher, while glass or acrylic furniture pieces take up even less space.
Embrace Flexible Layouts
Finally, don't be afraid to rearrange your furniture to find the most efficient layout. Experiment with different configurations to see what works best for your lifestyle. Consider adding inexpensive caster wheels to your furniture so heavy items become easy to move when accommodating different activities or guests.
By implementing these simple strategies, you can create a dreamy apartment home that feels spacious, functional, and uniquely yours. Remember, good design is about making the most of what you have — and with a little creativity, every last inch can contribute to a stylish and comfortable home.
