Small Space, Big Design: Decorating Ideas for Your Rental Apartment

Small Space, Big Design: Decorating Ideas for Your Rental Apartment

Renting an apartment can be an exciting time. But it can also be stressful, especially when figuring out your budget, searching the location, going through a tenant screening process, and signing the lease.

Also, if you're looking for apartments for rent, your living room may be small.

With limited space and tight budgets, finding ways to make the space feel both comfortable and stylish can be difficult. 

However, with creativity and thoughtful planning, you can turn your living room into a beautiful and functional space showcasing your personal style.

With the right pieces, you can make the most of your living room and create a cozy oasis perfect for entertaining guests or simply unwinding at home. 

Choose Furniture That Fits the Space 

small furniture

When picking out furniture for your living room, it's important to choose pieces that fit the space perfectly.

Opt for furniture with clean lines and minimal embellishments, as these pieces won't take up too much visual space. Additionally, avoid bulky furniture, like sofas and chairs with lots of padding or heavy arms.

Instead, opt for items with slim silhouettes that won't overwhelm the small space. You can also consider multifunctional furniture, such as ottomans with storage or pull-out beds that double as couches during the day. 

Use Light Colors

cream colored living room

One of the best ways to decorate a small living room is to use light colors. Light colors like white and beige make a room feel more spacious and open, benefiting a small space. 

It's also worth noting that light colors can help to reflect light, making the room feel brighter and more inviting.

Set Up a Book-Lined Wall

book wall

To maximize your wall space in a small living room, try adding floating shelves or wall-mounted cabinets to store books and other items while leaving plenty of floor space open for walking comfortably. 

This type of furnishing can serve several purposes:

  1. It can add color and texture to the room, creating visual interest and a warm and inviting atmosphere.

  2. Books can serve as a decorative element that adds a fresh look without having to redecorate the entire space.

  3. Books are an inexpensive and practical way to fill empty wall space without sacrificing valuable floor space.

  4. A wall of books can also serve as a functional element, offering a library for reading and a source of inspiration for decorating.

Hang Artwork

artwork above couch

You can also hang artwork to add color and texture to the walls without taking up valuable square footage. It is a great way to decorate a living room.

Artwork can serve as a focal point, drawing the eye and creating visual interest in the space. It helps to visually break up the space, making it feel less cramped and more balanced.

Artwork can also bring color, texture, and personal style to the room, making it feel unique and special. It’s a versatile decorating element that can be easily changed for a fresh look, making it perfect for those who like to switch things up often.

If you want to make a big impact, consider painting one wall in an accent color or installing wallpaper for an eye-catching look. 

Keep Things Simple

simple living room design

It is important to keep things simple when decorating a small living room. That means avoiding overly complicated designs or patterns that can make a space feel cluttered and busy.

Stick with clean lines and simple décor in order to create a tranquil and relaxing environment.

Use Mirrors

mirror above mantel

Mirrors are a great way to make a small living room look bigger. Mirrors reflect light, making the room feel brighter and more spacious.

Additionally, floor length mirrors can help to create the illusion of more space by visually expanding the room.

Get Rid of Unnecessary Furniture

minimal furniture

Consider removing furniture you don't frequently use to create more breathing room and explore some space saving door ideas. Sometimes less is more when it comes to decorating a small space.

Stick to the classics: a small sofa, a TV stand, and a coffee table. And if you can mount your TV on the wall, even better! 

Avoid Clutter

clutter free living room

Another important tip for decorating a small living room is to avoid clutter. Clutter can make a small space feel even smaller, so keeping things organized and tidy is important.

Try to find creative ways to store items, such as using baskets or shelves.

Maximize Natural Light 

living room with natural light

Finally, make sure to maximize natural light in your living room by keeping window treatments light and airy so natural light can come through easily during the day.

If you need privacy from street noise or nosy neighbors, opt for sheer curtains instead of dark blackout ones so natural light can still filter through while keeping prying eyes out of sight.

Additionally, mirrors and opposite windows will help reflect even more natural light throughout the room.  

Wrapping up

Decorating a small living room doesn't have to be a difficult task. It's all about choosing the right pieces and utilizing every inch of available space.

Keep furniture slim and streamlined while maximizing wall storage solutions, such as floating shelves, and hang artwork and mirrors opposite windows to maximize natural light filtering into the room during the daytime hours.

With these tips in mind, you'll have no trouble transforming your small living room into an inviting oasis perfect for entertaining guests or simply unwinding at home.


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