In a tight spot: 8 space-saving tips for studio apartment dwellers

Living in a small space isn't always easy but here are eight tips on how to squeeze everything in a small home or a studio apartment.

Use all available space with under-bed storage. Courtesy Ikea

Be strategic

First and foremost, don’t buy ­anything on a whim. Draw a floor plan, then become best friends with your tape measure. Work out exactly how much space you have and use it wisely. Have a think about exactly what you need and what you can live without.

Keep furniture minimal

Make sure your furniture is on the minimalist side – instead of bulky padded leather chairs or sofas, go for slimline options. Choose furniture with legs – these will look less heavy than those that sit snug on the floor.

Use every inch

A small nook between cupboards can be converted into a compact home office with the addition of a wide shelf that doubles as a desk; the inside of your cupboard doors can be fitted with hooks where you can hang necklaces or belts; and the area beneath your bed can act as a home for storage boxes. Try not to overlook any area of your home. Furniture pieces that serve multiple functions are always a good idea. From extendable dining tables and fold-up chairs to beds and bench seats with inbuilt storage areas and small side tables that double as foot stools, multifunctional pieces are your secret weapon.

Go vertical

Opt for shelving units or wardrobes that extend all the way up to the ceiling. Also, choose units with shelves that are narrow in width because they won’t impose on your space quite as much. Ladder shelves that extend up the wall are a good option. Another way to add height is to hang your curtains as high as possible – two or three inches from the ceiling – regardless of the size of your window. This will automatically draw the eye upwards. The same applies to headboards – the taller the better.

Keep things open

Open shelves are always a better option in smaller spaces, whether in your kitchen or living/bedroom area. A word of warning, though – they need to be organised. Whether you’re stacking plates, books or personal knick-knacks, arrange them in an orderly, well-thought-out fashion. There’s absolutely no room for clutter in a studio apartment. An open shelving unit is also a good way of separating spaces without blocking them off completely. If you want to create an element of privacy in your bedroom, for example, use your shelving unit as a room divider. A sheer curtain hung between living areas can also work effectively and be drawn back whenever you please.

Colour codes

When it comes to colour, popular opinion suggests that lighter hues are a better option for smaller spaces, because they reflect light and create the perception of space. Choose one shade – white or beige are the obvious choices, but any neutral, unobtrusive tone will work – and introduce variations throughout your space, from the walls to your main furniture pieces. You can then add brighter shades or patterns with accent pieces such as cushions and bed covers. There is, however, another school of thought that favours colour blocking in small spaces – using bold splashes of colour, whether for accent walls or larger furniture pieces, to add character to an otherwise drab space and detract attention from its diminutive size. This can look striking, but needs to be handled a lot more carefully. Either way, get your walls to do the work – don’t be afraid to hang an oversized piece of artwork. It won’t take up any space and will add much-needed colour and character to your interior.

Be selective

It pays to keep your purely decorative features to a minimum. Unnecessary accessories just create clutter. You can get away with the occasional scented candle and a few framed photographs, but anything beyond that is a luxury when you live in a studio. The one thing you should have, however, is a full-length mirror. This will reflect light around your room and create the illusion of space.

Get organised

Invest in a wardrobe organisation system from Ikea to ensure that all your shoes and clothing remain in your wardrobe – rather than strewn across your space. Everything in your apartment should have a dedicated place to live, from your laptop charger to your bank statements. Nicely stacked, colourful storage boxes can become a design feature in themselves.