Living in a flat or home that might be a little small for your current needs can be tricky, so when House & Gardens collated this list of 95 ways to decorate a small flat, we jumped all over it.
We know moving up the property ladder can often be more difficult than even getting on it. And with rental prices skyrocketing, we can't always get that extra room we might want. The result is many of us live in spaces that are challenging for our needs. But being inspired to organise and make the most of what area you have can change the connection and feelings you have about being where you are. Studies have shown that a well-designed space can positively impact our mood, reduce anxiety and depression, and improve our cognitive function.
Ten highlights we've noted from across the 95 suggestions that everyone can use:
- Being smart with storage. From floor-to-ceiling wardrobes, integrated drawers in unexpected places and furniture with storage built in. Choose shelves instead of bookcases for less bulk.
- Using zones creates a sense of space and different locations, so you don't feel like living in a big box. Partitions can be a brilliant way of adding the feel of more rooms without actually having them, and they can look great!
- Don't shy away from using colour. Colour can be your best friend to create a warm, cosy and welcoming space.
- Mirrors! An optical trick to add additional space and light - add them everywhere.
- Don't miss out on using hallways or strange nooks to create new useable "room". The hallway nook under the stairs could turn into a great office space using a fold-away desk.
- Be bold and use large artwork to make the wall look bigger! Artwork doesn't have to be expensive. Getting a blank canvas and using leftover wall paint tester pots to create a bespoke piece can be fun and effective. Be inspired by this YouTube video!
- Don't shove all your furniture against the walls. A classic stylist trick is to move things and free them from the wall to make a space feel bigger and have a better flow.
- Don't buy all your furniture too big for your space. But don't go miniature either - finding the right balance matters. Think about playing with size as a big, chunky side chair with a more petite sofa might be a better mix than that giant sofa you've been eyeing up. Also, pick furniture with legs instead of bulky sofas with hidden legs and stools with thinner legs.
- Glass and perspex work great to allow your eye to travel and free up space.
- Be smart with your curtains and window coverings - blinds and shutters can work better to increase space than big curtains. But hanging curtains from the ceiling can add height.
Check out all 95 ideas here.
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