Tips for Maximizing a Small Living Space: Smart Strategies for Tiny Homes and Apartments

Taking a minimalist approach to decorating and storage can transform a small house into a cozy, welcoming home

Small-space living is growing in popularity, thanks to the positive impact that tiny homes can bring to the environment, coupled with higher housing costs. In fact, 63 percent of millennials have said they would consider a tiny house as their new home.¹
Embracing minimalism can help you transform a smaller living space into a cozy, welcoming home. Instead of gathering clutter, you'll emphasize the value of a few intentionally chosen possessions that truly enhance your living space.² Here are some strategies for making the most out of the space in your tiny home or apartment.

Storage can be tough to come by in a tiny home or apartment, so look for creative solutions:

Leveraging vertical space allows you to add the illusion of height and extra space to a smaller home. It also stops you from stacking things on the floor, which can look cluttered and busy.² Here are some ideas to get started:

Minimalism embraces getting rid of decorative furniture and focusing on functional pieces.² So be mindful and purposeful with each furniture choice, investing in pieces that can maximize your space.

Choosing dual-purpose pieces is a great way to maximize minimalism in a small space.² Here are some ideas:

Embracing light and reflection can give a small space the illusion of being bigger, without adding a lot of clutter.

Utilizing corners can help maximize space while minimizing clutter.

Even the color of your paint can make a big difference in how spacious your space feels.

While you may have less space, you'll likely still have the same appliance needs. Incorporate your space-saving philosophy into your appliance and fixture choices.

While not every small home will have outdoor space for you to use, if you do have a small yard, then you'll definitely want to maximize it.

1. Use Smart Storage Solutions
   • Use storage ottomans or beds with built-in storage.²
   • Install floating shelves on the walls to maximize your space.
   • Choose a window seat with drawers to hold extra dishes or linens.³
   • Add a narrow bookshelf to your kitchen to help build out your pantry.³
2. Leverage Vertical Space
   • Place curtain rods a few inches above a window to add extra height.²
   • Install vertical storage to add more storage space and draw the eye upward.²
   • Mount your desk to the wall and install shelves above it.⁴
3. Optimize Furniture Selection
   • Install a swinging seat for a more open look and space beneath the seat.⁴
   • Set up a day bed to save space in your bedroom.⁴
   • Invest in foldable furniture or a Murphy table or bed to help a dual-purpose room transition more smoothly from a dining room to a living space or bedroom.³
4. Choose Dual Purpose Items
   • Opt for a sofa that can double as a bed, so the same piece is used for both seating and sleeping.²
   • Use a dining table that doubles as a desk or workspace.⁵
   • Incorporate storage ottomans² and use them for seating or as a coffee table.
5. Embrace Light and Reflective Surfaces
   • Add mirrors to reflect natural light and make the space appear larger. Antique mirrors can be an especially attractive choice.⁵
   • High shine, glossy finishes—such as glossy tiles—can create a sense of openness and space.⁴
   • Replace walls with glass doors and windows that allow light to travel through your rooms.⁴
6. Make the Most of Corners
   • Set up a corner desk to utilize otherwise unused areas.⁵
   • Add a Murphy table to a corner of your kitchen, so you can fold up your dining table when you're not using it.³
   • A table in the corner of your dining room can double as a dining table, countertop and desk.⁵
7. Choose the Right Paint Color
   • Neutral walls and decor can make a room feel more spacious. Add variation by using different textures in the decor and furniture⁴
   • Too many colors can leave a small space feeling chaotic. So pick a few shades of the same color, or add one pleasing accent to add pops of color over a monochromatic background.³
8. Incorporate Space-Saving Appliances and Fixtures
   • Slim-profile appliances, like a counter-depth refrigerator or a slimmed-down gas range can maximize workspace in the kitchen .⁵
   • Use pocket doors with windows instead of traditional swing doors to save valuable floor space and improve flow between rooms.⁴
   • Install wall sconces instead of lamps.⁴
   • Mount your TV to save space⁴
9. Utilizing Outdoor Space
   • Use multi-purpose outdoor furniture like a storage bench, so you can maximize functionality both indoors and out.
   • Make your patio an extension of your living space by using comfy cushions on your chairs or an indoor-outdoor light fixture.⁶
   • Grow a vertical garden to add visual interest and greenery, and put a small chair or garden stool beneath it.⁷

Maximizing a minimalist philosophy can help you make the most out of your tiny home or small apartment. Use these ideas as a jumping-off point for creating your own strategies for your home. With a little creativity, small changes can have a transformative impact on your space, creating an inviting environment that's cozy and inviting, not cramped.