Many Australians choose to downsize, opting for smaller, more manageable living spaces. And while smaller apartments offer a sense of intimacy, they also present unique challenges when it comes to maximising space and functionality.
The good news is that with a bit of creativity and strategic planning, you can transform a compact apartment into a stylish and efficient oasis that meets all your needs.
In this article, we'll delve into expert tips on maximising the layout to help you live more comfortably and efficiently while adding value to your property. Or if you are looking to rent, such changes could increase your property’s appeal with tenants.
Embrace minimalism
In a small apartment space, it's all about making the most of what you've got. One of the best tips for small apartment spaces is to clear out the clutter. You need to be a bit ruthless about what you can and can’t comfortably store within your property. Ideally, try to sort through your belongings before you move and be ready to start afresh. So, box up excess items such as coffee mugs, books, and pots for donation or to give away.
The key is living in an organised manner and ensuring your space is functional. Choose furniture with streamlined silhouettes and that has a dual purpose. Minimising the visual clutter will make your apartment feel bigger.
Open plan living can bring a sense of flow and functionality to a small space. Where possible, create zones by using things like area rugs, a bookcase or even a divider that can delineate separate areas for sleeping, working, dining, and relaxing.
In addition to decluttering your physical space, embrace minimalism in your decor choices as well. Opt for a neutral palette with pops of colour or texture for visual interest. Choose furnishings and accessories with clean, geometric shapes and minimalist aesthetics to create a cohesive and calming atmosphere.
Maximise lighting
Natural light can work wonders in a small apartment, making it feel brighter, airier, and more inviting.
Maximise natural light by keeping windows unobstructed and using sheer curtains or blinds allows sunlight to filter through and maximise natural light. Additionally, strategically placed mirrors can help reflect light and visually expand the space.
Consider investing in ambient lighting fixtures, such as floor lamps or pendant lights, to brighten up the room and create a cosy atmosphere if you have limited access to natural light.
For visual appeal, string lights are a great option. You can dangle them from the ceiling, hang them over your curtain dividers, or wrap them around your bed frame to illuminate your small space without creating clutter.
Hidden storage
Hidden storage solutions are a game-changer when it comes to maximising space in your apartment. Seek out furniture pieces that serve dual purposes, such as sofa beds that seamlessly transition from a comfortable seating area by day to a cosy sleeping spot by night.
Investing in storage ottomans is another space-saving move, offering a practical place to rest your feet while discreetly concealing your belongings. Additionally, foldable tables prove to be invaluable in small living spaces, providing ample surface area when needed and easily stowing away when not in use.
To further optimise your apartment's storage potential, consider incorporating built-in shelving units into unused wall space, alcoves, or corners. These are a great way to add value to your property. Built-in wardrobes are always seen as a positive to both prospective purchasers and tenants.
And let's not forget about the convenience and efficiency of hidden washer and dryer units. By seamlessly integrating these appliances into your apartment, you can enjoy the luxury of at-home laundry facilities without sacrificing valuable square footage.
Make the most of vertical space
When floor space is limited, it's essential to think vertically. Take advantage of every inch of wall space by installing floating shelves, wall-mounted cabinets, or hanging organizers. These vertical storage solutions not only free up valuable floor space but also draw the eye upward, creating the illusion of a larger, more expansive room.
In studio apartments or one-bedroom units, think about a loft bed that doubles as a study nook or even a mini living room.
If you need a workspace but don't have the floor space for a traditional desk, consider installing a wall-mounted desk. These compact desks fold down when not in use, maximising flexibility in small spaces.
If you have a green thumb, you may want to add some pot plants to your apartment. Your body corporate may allow a vertical garden to grow herbs or flowers on your balcony. This can add visual interest and natural beauty to your apartment making for a more inviting atmosphere outdoors.
Invest in key areas
Investing in clever design in key areas such as the bathroom and kitchen can significantly enhance your apartment’s overall appeal and value. These spaces are often considered the heart of the home and can leave a lasting impression on potential buyers or renters. So it can pay to utilise good design principles to make use of every centimetre of space available.
Consider making upgrades or renovations to modernise the look and functionality of these spaces:
Bathroom:
- Wall-Mounted Storage: Install shelves or cabinets above the toilet or beside the vanity to maximise vertical space.
- Mirrored Cabinets: Choose a mirrored medicine cabinet above the vanity for storage and to enhance the sense of space.
- Corner Shelving: Utilise corner spaces with shelves or storage units for toiletries and accessories.
- Compact Fixtures: Opt for space-saving fixtures like pedestal sinks or corner shower stalls to open up the floor area.
- Organisational Accessories: Use drawer dividers, under-sink organisers, and shower caddies to keep the bathroom clutter-free and efficient.
Kitchen:
- Vertical Storage: Install tall cabinets that reach the ceiling for maximum storage efficiency.
- Pull-Out Pantry: Consider a pull-out pantry cabinet next to the refrigerator for storing canned goods and spices.
- Compact Appliances: Choose slimline appliances to maximise counter space and create a streamlined look.
- Multi-Functional Furniture: Select kitchen furniture with built-in storage, such as islands with drawers or shelves.
- Overhead Pot Racks: Hang pots and pans from overhead racks to free up cabinet space and add a decorative touch.
Staging your small apartment to sell
If you're looking to sell your apartment for the best return, staging can make all the difference. Potential buyers need to envision themselves living in the space, and staging helps create that while showcasing your small space in the best light. If the apartment is empty, this can be harder to achieve – it can even make rooms look smaller.
If you wish to style your apartment to sell, keep decor neutral and clutter-free to highlight the property's best features with space-saving furniture and decorations.
Speak to your local LJ Hooker agent who will be able to put you in touch with a stylist who can work within your budget. They may suggest a partial or full staging depending on your furniture.
DISCLAIMER - The information provided is for guidance and informational purposes only and does not replace independent business, legal and financial advice which we strongly recommend. Whilst the information is considered true and correct at the date of publication, changes in circumstances after the time of publication may impact the accuracy of the information provided. LJ Hooker will not accept responsibility or liability for any reliance on the blog information, including but not limited to, the accuracy, currency or completeness of any information or links.
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