Compact living is becoming increasingly popular, especially in coastal areas and city centres where apartments are a way of life. 

Whether you’re downsizing, embracing a minimalist lifestyle, or simply making the most of a smaller property, there are a number of design and decorating ideas that can transform your limited space into something functional and luxurious.

This article will explore some small space design and decorating ideas for those who are embracing compact living.

Decorate With Neutral Tones

Opt to decorate small spaces with light and neutral colours, such as soft whites, creams, soft greys, sandy beiges, and pale blues. These colours reflect natural and artificial light - rather than absorbing it - making a room feel brighter, which our brains interpret as more spacious.

In addition, neutral tones flow seamlessly from wall to wall and ceiling to floor, helping the space feel uninterrupted and expansive. In contrast, dark and bold colours visually “break up” a small room. 

Invest In Functional Furniture

Functional furniture is designed to serve multiple purposes in order to maximise space. 

Examples include a sofa which opens into a bed, a dining table that doubles as a desk, a bed with built-in storage underneath, foldable dining chairs, nesting tables, and storage ottomans which double as stylish seats. 

Use Mirrors To Create Depth

A large statement mirror or a built-in mirrored wardrobe can make compact interiors feel more spacious. This is because mirrors reflect light and create the illusion of additional space. 

Don’t Forget Your Vertical Space

When floor space is limited, consider paying attention to your walls. Floating shelves, tall bookcases or cupboards, and hanging plants will naturally draw the eye toward the ceiling, which makes a room feel taller and more spacious. 

This gives you the opportunity to make your compact home feel homely without cluttering limited surface space.

Keep It Minimal

Sometimes less is more. By including fewer, high-quality decorations or pieces of furniture in your home, you can achieve a luxurious look within a compact space.

In addition, minimalist materials such as wood, stone, concrete, linen, cotton, and metal are chosen for their aesthetically pleasing qualities.

Extend Your Living Space Outdoors

If your compact apartment features a balcony or courtyard, it's important to treat this space as an extension of your interior. Invest in functional outdoor seating, decorate with greenery and neutral colours, and include subtle lighting.

Final Thought

Compact living doesn’t mean compromising on comfort or luxury. These design and decorating ideas focus on light, colour, materials, maximising space, and functionality. 

If you are staging a compact apartment ahead of selling, speak to Lloyd Estate Agents about staging techniques maximisation for small spaces.