Space saving ideas for a small apartment

Author: Gabrielle D, Staff Writer

Being able to afford a large, spacious apartment is getting more difficult by the day. If you’re living in a city, then it can feel almost impossible. But fear not! For we at LOVESPACE have come up with the ultimate space-saving guide for that small apartment of yours. We believe even the smallest of apartments can be made into your dream space. In fact, the smaller the space we are faced with, the more creative we become!

Before taking on a big furniture move, we suggest reading The Ultimate Declutter Guide.

The quickest and easiest way to create more space in your small apartment is to get rid of anything that doesn’t bring joy, purpose, or function into your life. Yes, that’s right, go full Marie Kondo and don’t hold back!

Assuming you have cleared the space, and if you’re anything like me it might take you some time, we recommend doing the next tips and tricks:

Use furniture that doubles as storage

When you have limited space in a small apartment, it's important to make the most of every inch. One of the best ways to do this is by using multi-function furniture, and even better if it doubles as storage. Growing up in a small cottage, almost every bit of space was utilised. Washing baskets doubled as shower seats, bathroom cupboards were mirrored, and kitchen worktops housed all sorts of appliances. Get creative! A storage ottoman can be used to store blankets or pillows, or a bed with built-in drawers can store clothing or linens.

Hang shelves on the walls

Use vertical space

As well as hanging shelves, you can also use vertical space by hanging hooks or installing a pegboard, for hanging pots and pans, kitchen utensils, or even jewellery. This not only saves space but also adds a decorative touch to your apartment. Other ways to create vertical space include:

1. Wall-mounted organisers: Install wall-mounted organisers in your kitchen, bathroom, or wardrobe to create more storage space. These organisers can hold anything from spices to jewellery to cleaning supplies.
2. Hanging plants: Hanging plants can add visual interest and create vertical space in any room. You can hang them from the ceiling or mount them on the wall.
3. Lofted beds: Lofted beds are a great way to create more space in a small bedroom. By lifting the bed off the floor, you create more room for a desk, dresser, or other furniture.
4. Wall-mounted desks: Wall-mounted desks are a great space-saving solution for small apartments or home offices. These desks can be folded up and out of the way when not in use, creating more floor space.

Remember, when creating vertical space in your home, it's important to use it in a way that is functional and visually appealing. Use it intentionally to make the most of your space.

Use under-bed storage containers.

Under-bed storage containers are a great way to store off-season clothing, extra linens, or other items that you don't need to access regularly. By using this otherwise wasted space, you can free up more wardrobe or drawer space for everyday items. Under-bed containers can also be used to store those less visually appealing items, such as exercise clothes, shoes or sweatpants. One last tip, I would avoid using plastic containers. They can break easily, and they don’t always look so chic. We recommend storage boxes made from wood, rattan, or use a wicker basket. To go the extra mile, fix these boxes to small wheels, for easy access.

Use a tension rod to create a makeshift wardrobe

If you don't have a wardrobe or have limited wardrobe space, you can use a tension rod to create a makeshift wardrobe in a corner or small space. This can be used to hang clothing or accessories and can easily be removed or adjusted as needed. Tension rods are great if you like to move things around. You can easily change the location of your makeshift wardrobe whenever you like.

Use a folding table or desk

In a small apartment, it can be challenging to find space for a table or desk. One solution is to use a folding table or desk that can be easily stored away when not in use. This can be used as a dining table or workspace and can be tucked away in a wardrobe or against a wall when not needed. We recommend that you invest in a high-quality folding table, especially if you work from home, or study for long hours of the day.

Install a murphy bed

A murphy bed is a bed that can be easily folded up and stored against the wall when not in use. This is a great solution for small apartments where space is at a premium. When you need the bed, simply pull it down and you're ready for a good night's sleep. When the bed is pushed back up, you can decorate the under-sized with your favourite post or art print!

Use a sofa bed

Like the murphy bed, a sofa bed will provide multi-function. Gone are the days of the dreaded ugly sofa bed. These items can look super sleek against your city-apartment aesthetic, or comfy and cosy in a small suburban home. We recommend using cushions that can double as pillows, and a decorative throw that can be used as a blanket. Once again, buy wisely, and aim to purchase an item that will last.

Need storage too?

Sometimes you need to clear some living space altogether. Remember, with LOVESPACE Storage by-the-box we collect boxes right from your home, and you’ll only pay for what you store.

For those larger items such as sofas, beds, wardrobes, bikes, and dining furniture, than LOVESPACE Storage Units will do just the trick.

To sum up…

By incorporating these space-saving ideas into your small apartment, you can create a more functional living space that maximises every inch of available space. Approach your small space with positivity! Get creative and see this experience as a way live with less.