Smart furniture choices

Smart furniture choices
COURTESY @SHOEBOX.DESIGNS/INSTAGRAM

In her 56m2 home, @shoebox.designs knew choosing right-sized furniture was essential. This small sofa in the living room is only 158cm wide, but deep enough so there’s no sacrifice on comfort.

The other elements in the room, including the orange armchair, dark wood accents and stunning gallery wall, prove that even a small living room can be brimming with rich, vintage style.

Check out these 15 genius decorating tricks to make a small room feel bigger.

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Colourful and compact

Colourful and compact
COURTESY @THE_FLAT_THAT_ROSIE_BUILT/INSTAGRAM

Make a big statement in your small apartment living room with plenty of bright colours, like this example from @the_flat_that_rosie_built.

If your rental agreement prohibits painting the walls or changing the flooring, there are still plenty of opportunities to add colour with throw pillows, furniture, rugs and artwork. The blanket ladder is a great way to store extra throws without taking up too much space.

Don’t miss this tiny house decor inspiration.

Embrace maximalism

Embrace maximalism
COURTESY @THEFRANKIEDLC/INSTAGRAM

It’s tempting to limit the amount of stuff in a small space, but that’s not always necessary. There’s no reason your small apartment shouldn’t match your maximalist style.

This bold living room by @thefrankiedlc features dark walls, neon trim, a bright pink sofa and even a mini refrigerator. But thanks to the clever layout, the room feels welcoming and cosy instead of cramped.

Discover 15 ways to squeeze more storage out of small spaces.

Accent with pattern

Accent with pattern
COURTESY @KATELYNSAILOR/INSTAGRAM

This small-but-chic living room by @katelynsailor is mostly done in white, including the walls, sofa and coffee table. White can make a small space feel bigger and brighter. Bold patterns in the pillows, accessories, rug and artwork create the perfect balance of sophisticated and fun. No one would ever call this room bland.

Here are some unusual and fantastic ideas for small spare rooms.

Minimalist design

Minimalist design
COURTESY @KATE_AUBREY_CREATIVE/INSTAGRAM

This small apartment living room by @kate_aubrey_creative is all about minimalist design. Limiting the amount of accessories and artwork in a small space makes it feel open and airy.

Allow your room to breathe by selecting furniture with clean lines and solid colours instead of busy patterns. To avoid the room looking too stark, layer textures, add a plant and use a pop of colour like the red cabinet and light fixture seen here.

Here are 19 clever decorating tricks to make a small bathroom look bigger.

Create calmness with neutrals

Create calmness with neutrals
COURTESY @KATNAY_/INSTAGRAM

Although there’s nothing wrong with a colourful living room, sometimes decorating with neutrals can help a small space feel calm and relaxing.

This living room by @katnay_ uses wood tones and soft, neutral textiles to create a serene haven to enjoy after a busy day. Hanging baskets on the wall offers an easy and inexpensive way to add interest while staying true to the boho-natural style.

Learn 6 ways to give your living room a revamp.

Extra small and simple

Extra small and simple
COURTESY @MYCITYAPARTMENT/INSTSGRAM

Even an extra-small apartment living room can be beautiful and functional. This lovely space is technically a second bedroom, but @mycityapartment converted it into a living room by adding a simple white sofa and a narrow bench that serves as the TV console. To cut back on clutter, the books under the bench hide the TV cords and cable box.

Follow these 7 downsizing tips for your living space.

Op shop finds

Op shop finds
COURTESY @QUIRINEBROUWER/INSTAGRAM

Outfitting your small apartment living room on a budget? Take a page from @quirinebrouwer‘s playbook by decorating and furnishing your space with op shop treasures.

This eclectic living room is full of character and colour — a style that she calls “grandmotherly with a hint of fortune-teller circus tent.” Remember, limited square metreage does not mean holding back on expressing your personality!

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Source: Family Handyman