Clever Layout Tips That Make the Most of a Small Space
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If you live in a big city, you're probably no stranger to the the 500-square-foot (or less) apartment. You sacrifice space for location, and although it's usually worth it, finding efficient ways to organize your cozy abode can be a challenge. So after living in a few less-than-ideal apartments myself, I've discovered a few tricks along the way to help maximize just about any small space.
The Living Room
Lesson one? Put it all against the wall. In a small apartment, it's important to align your furniture against the walls to create as much open space as possible. Put your couch against the largest wall of your living room, in the farthest corner. In order to avoid that first-apartment-after-college look, don't skimp on the accent pieces — add a side table and a floor lamp to make the room more complete.
If you'd like to have a desk in your apartment but don't seem to have the space, let your TV console double as a little home office. Mount your TV on the wall and use the rest of the space for your laptop and desk decor. Just pull up a chair, and you're good to go!
Bookshelves are also a major space saver in any room, particularly the living room. They don't take up a lot of floor space, but they can hold a ton. And if you style them right, they can look sleek and polished. Adding a slim bookshelf to a small corner of your apartment is a great way to store your shoes as well!
The Bedroom
Bedrooms in any big city can be less than ideal. Mine, for example, just barely fits a full-size bed. I suggest putting your bed in the corner of the room, farthest from the door, to allow for as much extra space as possible.
My trick for a makeshift bedside table? Try a console table at the foot of your bed. Chances are there's not much room to move around there anyway, so why not fill it with furniture to store your belongings instead.
Can't fit a dresser? Try putting it in the entryway, and let it double as an entry table. Maximizing your furniture's functions is a great way to save space in a small apartment.
The Kitchen
Although your kitchen is probably just a sink and a fridge against a wall, chances are there's some wall space nearby. Add a bookshelf or a wall-mounted cabinet to create some extra storage. They won't take up much square footage, but you'll get that pantry you've been wanting.
Amanda Holstein is a freelance writer and blogs at Advice From a 20 Something. Amanda is also part of POPSUGAR Select Beauty.