UGANDA, Kampala | Real Muloodi News | Living in a small apartment can be challenging, especially when it comes to designs to use and creating a functional living space.
However, with a few interior design tips, you can make the most of your space and turn your small apartment into a cosy and inviting home.
Here are some dos and don’ts to help you get started when choosing designs for your small apartment.
Do Light Colours
According to interior designer Aggrey Agbara, one of the easiest and most effective ways to make a small space feel larger is to use light colours on your walls and furniture.
Light colours such as white, beige, and pastels are more likely to create the illusion of more space, making your apartment feel brighter and more open.
Avoid dark colours as they can make a small apartment feel cramped and claustrophobic. Stick to lighter colours to create the illusion of more space and make your apartment feel more inviting.
Limit Furniture
While it can be tempting to fill your apartment with furniture, this can quickly make your space feel cluttered and overwhelming.
Choose smaller-scale furniture and limit the number of pieces you have in your apartment to avoid overcrowding.
The furniture should not seem like it is fighting for space.
For a small living room, Agbara recommends a two-seater L-shaped couch, instead of a three-seater, complemented by a small coffee table in the centre.
In your bedroom, choose a bed that will not eat up all the space. Everything should blend, and one piece of furniture should not dominate the space.
“That enormous 6X6 bed with a beautiful big head board, you have wanted to buy for a while, can wait until you get a bigger space. You want everything to blend, one piece of furniture should scream I am the boss of this place, everything should talk to each other, instead of one thing, being the centre conversation,” Agbara notes.
Invest in Multifunctional Furniture
One way to reduce the amount of furniture in a small apartment is by choosing furniture designs that are both functional and space-saving.
Invest in furniture that can serve multiple purposes, such as a sofa bed or a storage ottoman, to maximise your space without sacrificing comfort or style.
Utilise Vertical Space
Living in a small apartment means you are always short on floor space. But you can overcome this challenge by making use of your walls by installing shelving units and tall bookcases. This will allow you to store items without taking up too much valuable floor space, helping you to create a more organised and clutter-free living environment.
Be Creative with Storage
In a small apartment, storage is key to keeping your space organised and tidy. Invest in furniture with built-in storage, such as a storage bed or a coffee table with hidden compartments, to make the most of your space.
Use Lighting
Good lighting is essential in any living space, but it is especially important in a small apartment. Use a mix of overhead lighting and lamps to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Hang Mirrors
Knowing how to use a mirror can not only brighten up a dark room but also create the illusion of more space. However, using a small mirror or a group of small mirrors won’t achieve the desired effects. According to design expert Vern Yip, the best way to achieve these effects is by using a single large mirror with a simple frame, the bigger, the better.
An oversized mirror is particularly useful for expanding the sense of visual space in cramped quarters. To optimize the mirror’s impact, it should be placed at the average person’s eye level, approximately 60 inches from the floor to the center of the mirror. This rule also applies to artwork. By following a common hanging height, you can create a thread of continuity that ties your space together.
Pairing a mirror with a light source can enhance brightness in a room, adding atmosphere and dimension. Alternatively, positioning a mirror directly opposite a window can further amplify the brightening effect.
“Mirrors reflect space and giving the illusion that there is continuity of space, that is why mirrors are put in lifts, they make the lift feel bigger than it actually is, making it more comfortable for claustrophobic people” Agbara explains.
Use Curtains Strategically
Hanging curtains high and wide can make a small window appear larger in a small apartment, creating the illusion of a more spacious room.
You can also use single sheer curtains to let in natural light and make the space feel brighter.
Opt for long, white curtains made of sturdy material. Choose extra long curtains and hang them high above your window to give the illusion of more height and, therefore, more space.
Let Natural Light in
Natural light can make a small space feel brighter and more inviting. Keep windows free and use light-coloured curtains to let in natural light and make the space feel more open.
Living in a small apartment does not mean you have to sacrifice style or functionality. By following these guidelines, you can make the most of your space and create a comfortable and inviting living environment that you will love coming home to.
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