14 Genius Tips For Small Spaces

Today we’re looking at all of our best decorating tips and tricks to help elevate small spaces in your home. Here at Jipsē Co Studio, we’re big believers in small space, but big living. Our mission is to help you elevate your small spaces and your experiences in them ultimately creating your dream home.

There are several ways to maximize a small living space, including adding furniture pieces that can serve multiple functions, utilizing vertical storage solutions, and opting for lighter colors to create an open and airy feel. Keep reading for more tips!

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Watch 14 Genius Tips For Elevating Small Spaces

1. Be Intentional In Your Home
2. Define Living Spaces
3. Pay Attention To The Small Details
4. Choose Few High-Quality Pieces
5. Avoid Clutter
6. Use Color + Paint With Purpose
7. Choose Small Space Friendly Furniture
8. Keep Furniture Elevated
9. Create The Illusion of More Space
10. Make Use Of Wall Space
11. Layer Your Lighting
12. Maximize Storage
13. Add Personality and Visual Interest
14. Upgrade And Swap Out

BE INTENTIONAL IN YOUR HOME

When you’re intentional about your space and style, every decision matters. From the accent furniture pieces you choose to the color scheme, everything should be picked with purpose. This is especially true for small spaces. Not only will this help create a more cohesive look, but it’ll also make your small space feel larger as a result.

We talked about the concept of intentional living in a few posts and it is a mantra that can truly guide you in many ways. Intentional living is a way of living that speaks to the truest part of you. From our perspective, that too can also be related to space design and how you want to exist in your personal space.

We often say that intentional living and interior designing and decorating go hand-in-hand, especially in small living spaces. This is particularly true because having to decide what fills your personal space should have everything to do with intention. In this case, intention can be directly related to the function of a space or furniture that takes up valuable floor space. This is even relevant to the atmosphere of room and how the furnishings that occupy it make you feel in the space.

It’s important to recognize your own personal feelings about what you would like to feel waking up in your home. Visualize your day-to-day living in these spaces and figure out your specific needs to make them enjoyable. After all, if you’re not feeling great in your own home then what’s the point? We may not be able to physically change a smaller space, but we can implement creative ways to rework our problems in those areas.

DEFINE LIVING SPACES

Small living spaces that we refer to may often look a lot like a studio apartment, a small apartment, or even a one-room layout. One of the most important things we constantly bring up are ways to define living spaces and create separation.

As you may have seen in several of our posts there is a multitude of ways that you can create the illusion of extra space. And when you create separation and define living spaces it’s easier to make the most of a limited space. By doing so you make the most out of your small square footage by creating different purposes. At which point space decorating becomes a lot easier to tackle.

Firstly figure out what you’d like the function of a space to be. That will determine how you go about decorating and styling your home furnishings around it. Next use room dividers: This is an obvious one, but it’s worth mentioning where compact living such as living in a studio apartment, is concerned. is concerned. There are also a variety of styles to choose from. You can go with a simple curtain to divide your space or go for something more decorative.

PAY ATTENTION TO THE SMALL DETAILS

The smaller your living space is the more focused you should be on the details. In one of our interior inspiration posts, we did a piece on decorating your room like a boutique hotel. We discussed all of the ways that boutique hotels pay special attention to small details that result in a more luxurious experience.

Ultimately the little details make up the tiny spaces. You can read about all of those tips here, but we’ll sum it up for you. Use quality textiles and incorporate different textures to add that feeling of luxury to both bed and window treatment. Include beautiful lighting fixtures. Add artwork on the walls and other distinctive home decor items. Replace dull hardware with ones that improve the look of the room aesthetically.

Consider your living space to be a sum of parts where all of the little bits make up the whole. By following these tips, you’ll maximize your small living space and enjoy a more luxurious experience in your home.

CHOOSE FEW HIGH-QUALITY PIECES

When decorating a small space, it’s important to invest in a few high-quality pieces. This will add an air of luxury and make the space feel more intentional. By choosing quality over quantity, you can create a beautiful and functional space that you’ll love spending time in.

Because the goal is to ultimately create a space that you will be happy to live in, you want to fill that space with pieces that you love and that will be long-lasting so you can take them wherever you live. You can often find many long last furniture pieces with brands that practice sustainability. West Elm is one of those brands and you can find many quality, sustainable home furnishings like a solid mango wood coffee table. 

So when you are considering what pieces to bring into your home, think about what will work best in the long run. Quality furniture may be more expensive upfront but it will last longer and won’t have to be replaced as often. In the end, this can save you money and save space sans clutter. Also the goal is fewer pieces to avoid clutter, so make sure the furnishings you choose are worth having in your home.

AVOID CLUTTER

Avoiding clutter at all costs is key when it comes to your tiny spaces. Just like in a large home, decluttering will make your place feel larger, more spacious and organized. And when you have less to take care of, it’s easier to keep things clean. It’s also just a good way to live in your home preventing the unnecessary collection of stuff.

Start by getting rid of any unnecessary items and clearing up floor spce. Fill your house and space with things you enjoy. Utilize small space solutions like vertical shelving and other storage accessories.

Keep in mind the ease of flow in your home at all times. Avoid bulky furniture as that can make an already cramped space look even more cramped. Consider your house a place to store all of the things you enjoy rather than simply a storage facility for stuff.

USE COLOR + PAINT WITH PURPOSE

When it comes to selecting paint color or a color scheme for your small living space, the first thing you have to decide is what kind of atmosphere you want to create. Opt for neutral or light colors when painting to make the space feel more open and more light and airy. White walls can be quite stark and harsh.

Light colors will also amplify natural lighting in most cases. In a recent post we discuss how Scandi interior decor focuses on this aspect in using a light color palette in interior design. The use of light and bright neutrals allow for the feeling of openness which is key in compact living spaces.

Shop Benjamin Moore for Paint Colors

Additionally, you can layer different shades of neutral colors to create more dimension in your space. You may also use paint, such as dark colors, to create depth and intrigue. This is something we see a lot of in Japandi interior design, which creates a sense of calm in the room. Darker colors, even darker earthier neutrals can make a space feel cozier too.

You can also use darker colors to create an accent wall or a focal point in your home. One way to make a small living space feel more intimate is to create a focal point. This can be done by using dark colors or a feature wall in your space.

Finally, if you are a lover of vibrant colors, then consider using pops of color in your space. This can be done by adding a colorful rug, painting your front door a fun color, or adding some brightly colored accessories. Add small doses of a beautiful vibrant color scheme so you don’t overpower your interior design.

CHOOSE SMALL SPACE FRIENDLY FURNITURE

When it comes to apartment living or just living in a tiny space, the most obvious choice is small-space-friendly furniture. However, that doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice style for function, which we often see in small living spaces. In fact, there are many design styles that can really give your space that instant wow factor.

If you’re looking to really maximize space in your home or apartment, look for smart furniture pieces that offer some additional function as well. This could include seating with built-in storage beneath it, tables with foldable leaves or expandable features and so on.

Not only will these types of pieces saves you space but they also give your home an added level of versatility, allowing you to switch up the seating arrangement when needed without having to buy new furniture each time.

Other furnishing tips to consider when choosing furniture for small spaces, are playing with scale and proportion. This is a designer trick that can result in the space looking much more dramatic. Furniture that is too large will take up unnecessary space and make the area feel cramped.

There are many different small space furniture options available that will suit your needs while also providing a stylish look for your home. Go for sculptural furniture to make a statement in your space. Choose round or soft curved pieces to allow for more space. Examine your living space for possibilities. Choose multifunctional furniture like ottomans that double as extra seats and storage.

Also extendable furniture is a great idea too for those times when you might need additional seating areas. If you don’t have a dining room you can easily create one in your living room or family room. Dining tables that extend are a great example of this. By choosing a table that can elongate, you’re not only gaining an extra surface area when needed, but you’re also adding a design element that is versatile.

KEEP FURNITURE ELEVATED

A great benefit to using elevated furniture is that it makes the room feel and look larger. Anything that draws the eye upwards is always a good designer trick. So really play up that vertical space and shelving if possible. Try to keep as much ground space free and clear as much as possible in small rooms.

This will help to create an airy and open feeling in your home and keep that continual flow throughout your space. In addition, using furniture that is elevated off the ground will add visual interest and also make your interior look more sleek and modern.

Opt for floating nightstand shelves instead of typical nightstands. Go for wall-mounted cabinet units versus bulky furniture that is free-standing. Even high-hanging pendant lamps to move the attention off the floor is a great idea.

Mount your tv to the wall or maybe even go with a screen projector instead. Utilize wall shelves for more storage solutions in a small room. This is especially useful in kitchens and bathrooms where counter space is limited. If you don’t have kitchen cabinets or bathroom cabinets, you can easily install some wall shelving options.

CREATE THE ILLUSION OF MORE SPACE

We discuss different methods of making a small space appear larger than it is quite often on this blog. When you’re decorating your small home, use these ideas to create the impression that there is more space.

Using mirrors can also help create the illusion of more space. Mirrors are also reflective, which means they reflect everything around them and bounce light. This will give the illusion of greater depth to the room. They’re also great for allowing natural light to bounce off them. Ideally, you’ll want to place them opposite a window which will in effect make a space feel even more open.

Shop Wayfair for floor mirrors, oversized mirrors, wall mirrors

Another way to create this expanded space effect is by using light colors in your decorating scheme. Light colors reflect more light than darker colors, which will also make the room feel larger. You can also use mirrors and light colors together to have a doubly powerful effect.

Sheer curtains are also a great way to make a small space look bigger. They help to diffuse the light, making it seem as though there is more of it in the room which will give the impression that there is more space than there actually is.

With sheer curtains, mirrors, and light colours you can easily create an illusion of more space to make your home feel inviting and comfortable. Make sure to test out different approaches until you find what works best for you!

Another wonderful idea is to make your ceilings seem taller than they are. This may be accomplished in a variety of ways. Add long curtains as close to the ceiling as possible. Also don’t forget the floor-length mirrors. Add pendant lights to direct the focus up towards the ceiling. By elongating the length of a wall you will maximize the space and make it feel much larger.

MAKE USE OF WALL SPACE

Maximizing floor space is essential for homes and businesses with limited square footage. However, floor space isn’t the only area that can be used to get more out of a room. Many people forget about the vertical space in a room and overlook the potential for maximizing wall space as well.

Negative space doesn’t need to be wasted in your home. With a bit of creativity, it can easily become an asset in your home decorating! In a small living room, utilizing wall space can provide extra storage space and make the room feel larger.

By hanging shelves or adding a bookcase, you can display decorations, photos and books without taking up floor space. For an even grander effect, hang large art pieces like framed mirrors or paintings that really draw attention to your walls.

Wall cabinets are also great for making use of empty walls in any room. Wall-mounted cabinets can offer an additional hidden storage space while also adding some nice decorative touches. Floating shelves are great options for displaying items like books or photo frames while still keeping them within reach.

There are several creative methods to make good use of wall space in a tiny spaces that will have a significant impact on the overall look. It’s important to remember that there is a purpose in using wall space. You don’t want to overcrowd your wall with visual clutter or decorating it with too much stuff. This can result in your home feel even more compact.

You can keep your walls simple with just a coat of paint. Or you can display some of your favorite pieces of art in a gallery wall style. You can create a statement with an accent wall or even use wallpaper for even more visual interest. You can even go for wall paneling or moldings to add some architectural interest.

LAYER YOUR LIGHTING

Using lighting and light design strategically is key when it comes to small living spaces. Lighting and lighting fixtures play a role in your interior decor. You can use lighting to create different feels in your space and elevate your space. There are three main types of lighting to remember: ambient, task, and accent.

Shop Amazon for lighting fixtures

Ambient lighting is your general lighting, think of this as the light that fills up the whole room. Task lighting is what you use to complete specific tasks like reading with a table lamp. Accent lighting highlights and brings attention to spaces and can be used to draw focus like a pendant lamp in a corner. Using lighting techniques in your small space can be impactful to your interior overall.

MAXIMIZE STORAGE

If you’re living in a small space, then finding extra ways to maximize storage is important. There are several different ways you can do this. You can install shelves, hooks, or even cabinets. If you’re short on floor space, using the walls will give you more room to work with.

You can utilize hidden areas like underneath your sofa for storage or under your bed. Use double-duty furniture that has extra storage like ottomans or coffee tables. Use shelving and recesses in walls to display your decor bits as well. Over-the-door storage is another great idea and you can do so in areas like your closet or even kitchen cupboards.

No matter how small your space is, you can maximize storage to make the most of it. By using these tips, you’ll be able to keep your belongings stored away and out of sight, while still having a stylish and functional space.

ADD PERSONALITY + INTEREST

Space decorating with home decor is an excellent way to express yourself. Your interior decor should be compatible with your personal style and preferences. Artwork and other decorative objects may be used to add a personal touch to the interior.

Display art and other decorative items in a way that makes sense to the space. In one of our posts we examine various ways you can use wall art to transform your small space. Wall art may be used as a form of personal expression in your interiors. It can also be utilized to bring color into a room or even create a focal point.

You can use decorative home accessories to make a statement too. A well-placed vase or sculpture can add interest to a room. When selecting home decor, be sure to choose pieces that are unique and reflect your personality.

Shop West Elm Room Decor and Accessories

UPGRADE AND SWAP OUT

Before you decide to start decorating your interior space, you can easily make some upgrades to your small living space that will positively impact the rest of your space design. Mirrors, kitchen backsplash, flooring, walls, lighting, countertops, and hardware are all great places to start. Sometimes a simple swap out can elevate the space tenfold. These small changes can transform your home in a more contemporary and more refreshed place to live.

There are many temporary solutions for renters such as giving your place a fresh coat of paint. You can use peel and stick options for your kitchen backsplash or peel-and-stick floor tiles. If you’re a renter then you’ll want to get permission for this and also make sure that anything done can be undone without damage.

Use non-hardwired light fixtures that are either plug-in or battery-operated. Add wall trimmings to add an architectural element. Add sleek and stylish hardware to transform your kitchen cupboards. Swap out generic lighting for lighting fixtures with a bit more flare.

DECORATING SMALL SPACES

These small space friendly tips will not only make your living area look like an inviting space, but it will also make you feel more at home in it too. And, who knows, you may end up enjoying small space living more than you expected.

The takeaway from today’s post is that there are always ways to elevate the home that you’re in today. Hopefully, you enjoyed today’s post and will implement some of these practices to elevate your small living space today!

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• Rediscovering Raw Elegance: The Return of Material-Focused Interior Design
• Entering the Cozy Era: Moody Colors for Small Spaces
• Exploring the Elegance of Tone-on-Tone Color Schemes in Home Decorating

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