Compact Apartments Provide the Perfect Opportunity for Style and Functionality 

69% of American homeowners are “embarrassed” to have company over due to how they chose to decorate their homes, a survey commissioned by Slickdeals reveals. The research further unveils the fact that 75% of homeowners acknowledge that some of their previous home improvement choices “aged poorly over the years,” PR Newswire highlights. While home design choices can be difficult enough, those who have less space to work with can find a redesign even more of a challenge. From the value of stylish storage options to the underestimated power of custom design solutions, those who live in compact apartments can transform a dull space into one that is truly unique and functional.

Style and storage for an unlikely combination

Space is a crucial element in any home — half of Americans, for instance, have at least one room that they believe is irrecoverable due to clutter, a survey conducted by Talker Research for The Container Store highlights. The survey of 2,000 adults also revealed that a third (34%) feel ‘cramped’ at home, though the sentiment was particularly true for those who live in apartments (39%). For individuals who wish to minimize clutter via a revamped design, furniture that prioritizes storage in a sleek way can provide the perfect solution. The Spruce points out a variety of creative and stylish solutions, such as the use of wicker baskets that can help hide clutter or storage ottomans that can achieve the same goal. Other functional furniture pieces such as a coffee table, couch, or a bed with hideaway storage spaces can further minimize clutter and can keep must-have items (like extra blankets) conveniently within reach. 

Vertical storage is a fantastic concept to explore for those who live in compact apartments, especially when the goal is to minimize excess clutter in a fashionable way. While shelving is the obvious solution, innovative options extend well beyond this. A Homes & Gardens article identifies several modern ideas in addition to the traditional shelves, such as wall-mounted furniture. Tables and desks are great for this, as they can be unfolded when needed and conveniently tucked away when they’re not — this can be the perfect solution for someone who works remotely, or who may not need a dining table 100% of the time. “This gives you a dedicated space to work and allows you to fold the table and store items when it’s not needed, creating more space,” says Melissa Engelke, owner and lead interior designer at ME Design. The classic Murphy bed is another example of wall-mounted furniture, as well as wall-mounted drying racks, hooks, and foldable shelves that can be installed for peak functionality in the laundry area.

Custom solutions create the perfect look

Compact apartments go hand in hand with custom furniture solutions, as they can help address those commonly awkward spaces. Custom options can be found online, and can be a convenient solution for those who aren’t able to spend all day out in search for the right choice from a limited in-store selection. With modern and classic sofa bed styles that range from sectionals to chaise loungers as well as a variety of patterns and colors to choose from, custom furniture pieces are ideal for those in search of the perfect combination.

Personality and style can be further incorporated into a compact apartment via DIY endeavors, whether you purchase a new piece or upcycle an old yet functional favorite. For example, a storage cabinet can seem rather plain out of the box, though elements such as paint, drawer liners, and side hooks can all elevate the piece. Not only can a feature like side hooks elevate the functionality of the piece, but decorative additions like hand painted details can help match the furniture to your individual style. Aside from upgrades to modern furniture, an outdated piece can be revived and even reinvented with simple changes, such as wood stain or the installation of modern (or ornate) drawer pulls or knobs. 

 Compact apartments can be made both stylish and functional through creative design choices. Unique solutions range from vertical storage concepts to custom furniture pieces, each of which work to maximize space in a modern way.