Small apartments are often tricky to keep organized and liveable. You might not be able to make more square footage in your home, but you can certainly strategize to make the most of the space. Here’s how.
Mobile Furniture
To keep your space as versatile as possible, choose lightweight, easy to rearrange furniture, or put swivel casters on your existing pieces. This will give you the ability to change the layout with the seasons (for example, orienting everything toward the fireplace during the winter) or to mix up the furniture arrangement for special events and gatherings.
Clever Storage
You can make your space feel cleaner and more open by simply expanding your storage options throughout your apartment. Choose sofas or ottomans with built-in compartments for hiding spare bedding or off-season decor. Use an array of wall hooks in an entryway in lieu of a bulky coat rack. Add floating shelves on the walls instead of (or in addition to) a bookcase — you can even sneak them into tight spaces, such as above doorways or over a dresser.
Multi-Purpose Pieces
When you purchase items for your tiny dwelling, consider what other uses each piece might be able to fulfill. Think beyond just futons and sofa beds here. Consider one clever multi-purpose piece, for example: if you opt for a firm ottoman in lieu of a plush one, it can serve as an end table, footrest or even extra seating. Similarly, if you choose a bench for your dining table, you can keep it pushed up against the wall and used as shelving when you don’t have guests. Keep your thought process going like this and you’ll be sure to collect a whole home full of incredibly functional pieces.
Zero Clutter
After your cozy home is established, it’s tempting to let a little clutter here and there sneak into your space in the form of stacks of papers, clearance sale steals, holiday gifts or thrift store finds. To keep the amount of “stuff” at a manageable level (thus maximizing the precious space in your limited square footage), schedule a day once or twice a year to get rid of the junk that collects. If you haven’t used it in the last year, it’s probably time to part ways with it.
Keeping a neat and tidy small apartment can be a challenge, but it’s definitely possible. By making the most of the space, you can keep it feeling like home for you and the ones you love.
