Figuring out how to design a small living room in an apartment can feel like a brain-teaser, but with a few smart choices, you can make a space that’s both practical and gorgeous. As someone with lots of experience in small spaces, I’m happy to give you some of my top ideas to help you get the most out of your living room.
1. Add a Statement Light
Lighting is super important in a small space. A great-looking light fixture can be the main attraction while also lighting up the room.
2. Use See-Through Furniture
Furniture you can see through, like glass tables, can make a space feel less cramped. They’re useful without making the room feel heavy.
3. Bring in Some Green
Plants can make a small space feel alive and fresh. I suggest adding a few indoor plants to your decorations; they can make even the smallest room feel energetic.
4. Go for Furniture That Does More
In a compact living room, each furniture piece needs to pull its weight, so I’m a big fan of multi-use items. Consider a storage coffee table or a sofa that turns into a bed; these do twice the work without taking up more space.
5. Build Up with Shelves
When you don’t have much floor area, the walls become super useful. I often suggest shelves that appear to float or built-in units to take advantage of vertical space. They’re great for showing off books and decorations without filling up the room.
6. Use Corners Wisely
Corners are often not used as much as they could be. I like to put a comfy reading spot or a small desk in a corner to use every bit of space.
7. Use Mirrors to Create Space
Mirrors work wonders for making a space feel bigger and more open. I like to put a big mirror on one wall to bounce light around and make the room seem deeper.
8. Let in Natural Light
Keep your windows clear so you get as much natural light as possible. Soft-colored curtains will make the room feel softer without blocking the sunlight that makes a room feel bigger.
9. Add Rugs for Texture
A rug that’s placed just right can set off different areas in your living room. I like using area rugs to make separate zones, which also brings warmth and texture to the space.
10. Create a Gallery Wall
Art can make your space feel more personal without taking up floor space. I really like putting together a gallery wall to show off art and photos in a small living room.
11. Pick a Light Color Scheme
Lighter shades can make a room feel open and breezy. I often recommend soft and bright hues for the walls and furniture to make everything flow together and feel roomy.
12. Go for Simple Decorations
Sometimes, less is more in a small space. I think it’s best to focus on a few key pieces and keep the rest of the decorations simple so the room doesn’t feel crowded.
13. Add a Focal Point
Every room looks better with a focal point, even if it’s small. Whether it’s a fireplace or a piece of art, a focal point catches your eye and gives the room a sense of balance.
14. Add Texture with Fabrics
Using different fabrics can make a small room feel more interesting. I like to use throws, cushions, and curtains to create a space that feels rich and inviting.
15. Mount the TV
Putting your TV on the wall saves a lot of space. It’s a simple way to keep the room open and airy.
16. Hang Curtains High
To make ceilings look higher, I always hang curtains near the top of the wall. This makes your eyes look up and makes the room feel taller.
17. Use Storage
A small room can quickly feel cluttered. I suggest using furniture with storage inside to keep things tidy and out of sight.
18. Play with Patterns
Don’t be afraid to use patterns in a small room—a bold patterned rug or cushions can make the room more interesting and make it seem bigger than it is.