SMALL SPACE HACKS
How to Make Your Studio Apartment Look Bigger

10 easy and simple hacks for a small space

Let’s be real: living in a studio apartment is like playing Tetris with your entire life. Between your bed, your couch, and that random yoga mat you swear you’ll use tomorrow, it’s easy to feel like you’re drowning in clutter.

But guess what? With a few genius small space hacks – and a lot of intentionality – you can turn your cramped studio into a breezy, functional oasis.

As an interior designer who’s obsessed with maximizing square footage, I’m spilling all my secrets. Let’s go.

1. Mirrors: Your New Bestie

One of my favorite small space hacks is using mirrors. They’re literally magic for creating the illusion of space. Hang a large statement mirror opposite a window to bounce natural light around, or lean a floor mirror against a blank wall to add depth.

Pro tip: Go for frameless or slim-profile designs to keep things airy.

#studioapartmentlighting #reflectivesurfaces #spaceenhancingdecor

2. Furniture That Pulls Double Duty (Or Triple, Tbh)

If your furniture isn’t multi-functional, we need to talk. Think storage ottomans that hide your extra blankets, fold-out desks that vanish after WFH hours, or a sofa bed that’s actually comfortable (yes, they exist).

My latest obsession? Nesting tables. I love that they’re like the transformers of home decor – compact but ready to party when you need extra surface space.

#spacesavingfurniture #multifunctionaldecor #compactlivingsolutions

3. Go Vertical – Like, Really Vertical

Floor space is precious, so stop ignoring your walls. Floating shelves, wall-mounted racks, and tall bookcases draw the eye upward, making your studio feel taller. Personally, I love using open shelving to display a mix of books, plants, and a few meaningful objects – things that add personality without overwhelming the space.

Bonus: Vertical storage keeps your floors clear, which is key for that open floor plan vibe.

#verticalstoragesolutions #wallmountedorganizers #maximizingverticalspace

4. Light & Bright Color Palettes FTW

I totally get the appeal of moody, dark walls – they can look super chic and dramatic. But in a small apartment? Big nope.

Stick to light, neutral tones like soft whites, warm beiges, or pale grays to make your space feel bigger. Add texture with creamy linens, woven rugs, or a blush throw pillow – just keep it cohesive.

If you’re craving color, add pops through removable decor like art prints or plants. Renters, rejoice!

#lightcolorschemes #neutralapartmentdecor #airyinteriordesign

5. Curtains: The Ultimate Illusionists

Hang your curtains high and wide. Like, inches above the window frame and extended beyond the sides.

This tricks the eye into thinking your windows (and room!) are bigger than they are. Opt for sheer or light-filtering fabrics to keep things soft – heavy drapes just swallow up light.

#windowtreatmentideas #opticalillusionsindesign #studioapartmentlighting

6. Zone Your Space Like a Pro

In a studio, your bed, living area, and kitchen all exist in a 10-foot radius. The fix?

I swear by area rugs for defining spaces. A plush rug under the bed makes it feel like a real bedroom, while a flat woven one under a dining table separates it from the living area.

And if you want an actual physical boundary? A bookshelf, folding screen, or even a slim console table can create a subtle divide without closing off the space. It’s all about mental boundaries.

#studioapartmentlayout #spacezoningtechniques #openconceptliving

7. Declutter Like You’re Marie Kondo’s Protégé

I know, I know – another person telling you to declutter. But in a studio, every item needs to earn its keep.

Adopt a “one in, one out” rule, invest in hidden storage (under-bed bins), and ditch anything that doesn’t spark joy or serve a purpose. Your future self will thank you when you’re not tripping over that juicer you’ve used twice.

#minimalistapartmentliving #declutteringtips #hiddenstorageideas

8. Lighting: Layer It Like a TikTok Makeup Guru

As a professional interior designer, I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve walked into a space and immediately thought, “This lighting is killing the vibe.”

Overhead lighting alone? It’s harsh, unflattering, and does zero favors for the ambiance.

Instead, layer ambient, task, and accent lighting. String up fairy lights, add a sleek floor lamp by your reading nook, and throw in a few plug-in sconces. Warm, dimmable bulbs = instant cozy vibes.

#layeredlightingdesign #studioapartmentlighting #ambientlightingtips

9. Furniture Legs Are Your Friend

Choose sofas, beds, and tables with exposed legs. Seeing that little slice of floor beneath your furniture creates a sense of openness. Plus, it makes cleaning way easier (RIP dust bunnies).

#elevatedfurniture #airyinteriordesign #visualspaceexpansion

10. Fold, Hang, or Roll Everything

Your closet is probably a nightmare, but hear me out: fold clothes vertically, hang pots and pans on a pegboard, and roll towels instead of stacking them. It’s all about reducing bulk and creating breathing room.

#compactstoragehacks #organizingsmallspaces #apartmentkitchenstorage