Small spaces can be tricky. Sometimes the layout of your new apartment rental won’t be ideal, or you decide to strike out on your own and downsize to something that is the perfect fit for your future. Whatever the reason, adapting to a smaller apartment can be a challenge, but knowing your options, downsizing, and making some upgrades can make all the difference between cramped and cluttered or cozy and livable!
Organization Is Key
Clutter is the biggest enemy of smaller spaces. Organizing an apartment can be a great way to not only cut the clutter, but to also show off your own personal style! Look to bookshelves to utilize height in your storage solutions, and invest in some nice baskets and bins to hold smaller items. Get a paper shredder to ditch documents you don’t need, and take a hard look at your belongings. What do you not need? Donate old clothes and home items, and feel the weight come off your shoulders.
Downsize Your Furniture
Small apartments have endless potential, but one of the biggest roadblocks you may run into is the size of your furniture. That large, comfy reclining sofa may take up half of your living room and really limit your design potential, not to mention restricting your seating options. Skip that seven-foot behemoth, and turn to a smaller, footed option to add dimension, style, and more opportunity to your home. Add a comfy chair, look into an ottoman, and have a couple of folding chairs tucked away, and you’re ready to entertain at the drop of a hat!
Search for Multi-Purpose Options
That ottoman? Choose one that doubles as a storage chest! Multipurpose furniture can completely transform your space. Some popular (and handy) options include:
- Storage benches and ottomans
- Murphy beds (check out cabinet ones; then you have an extra surface!)
- Coffee tables, bedside tables, and end tables that have added storage potential
- Sleeper sofas or futons
- Mirrors with accessory storage
- Wall-mounted desks
Investing in furniture choices that pull double-duty not only saves space; it also can become a major conversation piece!
Use Every Storage Opportunity You’ve Got
If there’s a gap, you can utilize it! The empty space under your bed is great to store seasonal clothes/coats, extra bedding, or any craft supplies you have. Grab some vacuum storage bags and/or some plastic totes (they make some that are the perfect size!) and take advantage of that space! Find extra storage solutions for your closets; adding cubicle wire shelves can provide better storage opportunities and can make it easier to find the clothes or shoes you need for your big meeting. As for your kitchen, Use baskets on the top of your fridge or get pot/pan racks to help organize and upgrade your open cabinets!
Think About Those Accents
Believe it or not, your decor choices can actually play a big part in the feel and functionality of your space! Think about incorporating mirrors into your decor, snag a few house plants, and choose privacy curtains that still allow for natural light to filter into your home. These choices can help even a tiny space feel much bigger. Think throw pillows are a lame investment? Never underestimate the usefulness of a good throw pillow! These can double as floor seating when you have extra guests!
Small Doesn’t Have to Mean Cramped
With the right choices, even the smallest studio apartment can become your personal paradise. If you are looking for the perfect rental home or apartment in the Treasure Valley, Iron Eagle Property Management has some pretty great opportunities! Contact the team today, and get into your cozy oasis tomorrow.