10 Functional Interior Design Ideas for Small Spaces

When it comes to creating a stylish but functional interior design, every inch of space counts. And while small spaces can be so challenging – they can also be so rewarding!

Last week we discussed space planning and the steps you should take before trying to rework your own space. This week we’re breaking it down even more! Because before you can really begin designing the living space of your dreams, you’ll need to understand the basic concept of functional interior design.

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What Is Functional Interior Design?

Functional interior design is all about getting the most use out of a space while applying basic interior design principles to achieve visual harmony. You can achieve a functional and aesthetic space by utilizing multipurpose furniture, various shelving and storage options, and strategic furniture placement ideas.

Understanding how you want to experience a space is key in maintaining design control. Whether you’re hoping for a cozy and intimate reading nook or a modern living room for family gatherings, your design and decor should be reflective of that.

When it comes to small spaces in particular, most people underestimate the function of furniture and decor. But the truth is, furniture can play a big role in how functional your space is! With a blank floor plan, you can begin to play around with different interior design elements to create a space that is both functional and beautiful.

In this blog post, we will share tips for small spaces that will help you make the most of your limited square footage. We’ll also show you some 10 simple interior design ideas that are inspiring examples of how these concepts can be put into practice. So whether you’re working on a new home renovation or just trying to make the most of your current space, read on for some great tips!

Here are a few tips for functional interior design ideas for small spaces:

• Be mindful of the way you arrange your furniture and design flow. Make sure that there’s enough room for people to move around comfortably.

• Make use of vertical space! Install floating shelves, hang pictures, and take advantage of high ceilings.

• Consider investing in multipurpose furniture that be useful in more ways than one. When space is limited, it’s important to make every piece of furniture count. Look for pieces that can serve multiple purposes, such as a convertible dining coffee table or a daybed with trundle.

• Incorporate hidden storage: If you’re short on storage space, get creative and incorporate hidden storage into your design. For example, you could install shelves behind cabinet doors or add drawers under your bed.

• Use light and mirrors: Strategic use of light and mirrors can make a small space feel much bigger. Hang mirrors opposite windows to reflect natural light, and use lighter colors on walls and floors to brighten up the space.

• Keep it simple: In general, less is more when it comes to functional interior design for small spaces. Stick to a simplified color palette and don’t overcrowd the room with too many furnishings or decorations.

Studio Apartment

Design Ideas:

– Use furniture to divide the space. One way to do this is by using furniture to create different areas within the space. For example, you could use a couch as a divider between the living room and bedroom.

– Get creative with storage: Storage is always an issue in small spaces. However, there are many creative ways to incorporate storage into your design. For example, you could install shelves above your bed or add drawers under your couch.

– Use light colors: Light colors can help make a small space feel bigger and brighter. Stick to a light color palette for both walls and floors.

Small Home Office

Design Ideas:

– Use a desk with storage: When you have a small home office, it is important to make use of every inch of space. One way to do this is by using a desk with storage drawers. This will help you keep your workspace organized and free up some extra space.

– Get creative with wall space: Wall space is often overlooked in small spaces. However, there are many ways to utilize this space. For example, you could install floating shelves or hanging planters.

– Utilize accessories that can easily be stowed away. For example, you could use a laptop instead of a desktop computer and use a wireless printer.

Tiny Bathroom

Design Ideas:

-Utilize wall shelving instead of bulky cabinets. You could also install a floating vanity or shelf to give the illusion of more space.

– Use a pedestal sink: A pedestal sink is a great way to save space in a tiny bathroom.

– Rollaway storage carts or under the sink storage can help you keep your bathroom organized and free up some space.

Small Living Room

Design Ideas:

-Use various seating options. Creating conversation seating is important in any functional interior design. You can do this by using a mix of chairs, couches, and ottomans. This will allow you to have different conversation areas within your small living room.

Small Bedroom

Design Ideas:

– Look for pieces that can serve multiple purposes, such as a dresser that doubles as a nightstand or a bed with built-in storage.

-Use the space underneath your bed as additional storage space.

Compact Home Gym

Design Ideas:

– Use items that can easily be stored away: In a small home gym, it is important to only use equipment that can easily be put away when not in use. Otherwise choose items that you wouldn’t mind look at in your space like this gorgeous white marble kettle ball from CB2.

Narrow Entryway

Design Ideas:

– Use a console table: A console table is a great way to make use of a narrow entryway. It provides a place to put keys, mail, and other items. Plus, it can also provide extra storage with its drawers or shelves.

– Hang a mirror: Hanging an oversized wall mirror is a great way to make a small space feel bigger. It will also help reflect light, making the space feel brighter.

-Try out a board and batten entryway: This type of entryway is perfect for narrow spaces. It can provide extra storage with its hooks and baskets. Plus, it will also add some

Small Balcony

Design Ideas:

– Use potted plants: Potted plants are a great way to add some life to a small balcony. They can help create a sense of privacy and can also provide some much-needed greenery.

– Get creative with furniture. For example, you could use a folding railing table and even a storage ottoman as extra seating.

For some romantic balcony ideas check out our post Chic Small Balcony Ideas For This Spring.

Corner Spaces

Design Ideas:

– Use shelves: Shelves are a great way to make use of a corner space. They provide extra storage and can also be used to display decorations.

– Install a corner desk: A corner desk is a great way to utilize a corner space. It provides a place to work or study and can also help save space in a small room.

– Use an accent chair to your cozy reading corner. An accent chair is a great statement piece for a corner.

Small Dining Area

Design ideas:

– Use a round table: A round table is a great way to save space in a small dining area. It can also help create a more intimate dining experience.

– Use bar stools: Bar stools are a great way to save space in a small dining area. They can be tucked under the table when not in use and they provide extra seating when needed.

– Use a buffet: A buffet is a great way to save space in a small dining area. It can be used to store dishes and also provides extra counter space for food

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We hope these functional interior design ideas for small spaces have inspired you to think outside the box when it comes to your own home! Remember, even the smallest changes can make a big impact in a limited space. By utilizing some of these ideas, you can make the most of your small space and create a functional and stylish home.

Do you have any other functional interior design ideas for small spaces? Share them with us in the comments below!

If you liked this post, be sure to check out our other posts on interior design:

6 INTERIOR SPACE PLANNING TIPS THAT WILL SAVE YOU TIME AND MONEY