9 Decorating Tips Tailored to Millennials

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There's lots of chatter about whether millennials prefer to live in the suburbs or the city, but no matter where this demographic choses to reside, it's undeniable that they have unique living needs. Millennials love high-tech features, bold design finishes, and adaptable designs that evolve with them over time. And, since the majority of millennials are in their 20s — hence smaller salaries and families — they tend to live in smaller spaces. For decorating advice tailored to this group of dwellers' needs, we turned to celebrity designer Bobby Berk. Bobby specializes in millennial design and says interior design for millennials is all about smart, original, and creative designs that are both customizable and functional. In this light, he has nine tips that will help millennials optimize even the smallest of spaces.

01
Use Multipurpose Storage
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Use Multipurpose Storage

"For small spaces, storage is key. Look for pieces that can have more than one use and takes up less space," says Bobby. "For instance, instead of a typical coffee table, use things that double as seating and storage as well like this upholstered ottoman ($36). These can also easily be tucked away under a table or pulled out for guests and extra counter space when necessary."

02
Buy Good Art
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Buy Good Art

Art is the perfect place to express individuality and leave your unique mark on your home. "It's good to invest in a great piece you love, but you can save money by framing it with a less expensive frame in whatever color or style you like or find one at a great flea market," says Bobby. He loves sophisticated abstract prints and midcentury prints ($445).

03

Use Storage Benches For Dining Seating

"For dining areas, less chairs equal more space," says Bobby. Instead of traditional dining room chairs, he suggests you "use cabinets and put cushions on top or get an inexpensive storage bench." Match the cushion cover to your decor for a customized, high-fashion look.

04
Add an Accent Wall
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Add an Accent Wall

"One way to transform a room without spending a lot of money is to create an accent wall," advises Bobby. He prefers temporary wallpaper ($125) that pops.

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If a colorful wallpaper is too bold, you can go with a more subtle, textured wall treatment like embossed three-dimensional wall flats ($86). "These fun and interesting wall flats from Inhabit Living add a great dimension to any space," says Bobby, noting the great price value.

Another great option Bobby recommends is temporary wood panels. "To add great texture without having to spend a lot of money, dress up a wall or two with Stikwood. At only $14 per square foot, it's a great solution," he says.

05
Shop Beds With Built-In Storage
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Shop Beds With Built-In Storage

"And for the bedroom," Bobby says, "get a bed that has lower drawers, so you can utilize all empty space, like the Malm from IKEA ($264)."

06

Mount Cabinets

"Save precious floor space by mounting these great and inexpensive cabinets from Ikea along the top of rooms," says Bobby. "They make a great storage solution that won't make your room feel smaller or take up precious floor space."

07
Scatter Smart Seating
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Scatter Smart Seating

"Utilize space and budget by purchasing a cool garden stool ($105)," says Bobby. "It can serve as extra resting space in the bathroom for towels and seating and moved to the living area or bedroom for side table use, or as a seat for your desk as needed."

08
Invest in Adaptable Surfaces
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Invest in Adaptable Surfaces

In extrasmall spaces, Bobby recommends installing adaptable surfaces that only take up space when you're using them. "Wall mounted drop-leaf tables like this one for only $43 are an excellent way to save space all around and use as a table or a desk when necessary." Instead of taking up valuable real estate with a big desk or dining chair, he says, "you can simply move one of your ottomans or [easy] chairs over when using."

09
Get Creative in the Kitchen
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Get Creative in the Kitchen

"Even your kitchen can be made to make the most of a small apartment. Utilize that small crack next to your fridge and the wall with a thin rolling pantry shelf ($38)," says Bobby.