Small living rooms in apartments can be tough to decorate. You might feel limited by the space and unsure how to make it feel cozy yet functional. But don’t worry – there are lots of ways to make the most of your compact living area.
With some smart design tricks, you can create a stylish and comfortable living room that feels much bigger than it is. Clever storage, multi-purpose furniture, and the right decor can transform even the tiniest apartment living room into a space you love spending time in. The key is thinking creatively about how to maximize every square inch.
1) Multi-functional furniture
Small living rooms need smart solutions. Multi-functional furniture is key. These pieces serve more than one purpose, saving precious space.
A sofa bed is a classic choice. It gives you a comfy seat by day and a bed for guests at night. Look for ottomans with hidden storage inside. They work as footrests, extra seating, or tables.
Nesting tables are handy too. Pull them out when you need more surface area. Stack them away when you don’t. Fold-down desks attached to walls are great for work. They disappear when not in use.
Consider a coffee table with built-in storage. It keeps your living area tidy while providing a spot for snacks or drinks. These smart furniture picks help you make the most of your small apartment living room.
2) Light-colored walls
Light-colored walls can make your small apartment living room feel bigger and brighter. Pale hues reflect more light, creating an airy and open atmosphere.
Paint your walls white, cream, or light gray. These neutral tones provide a clean backdrop for your furniture and decor.
You can also opt for soft pastels like light blue or pale yellow. These gentle colors add a touch of personality while still keeping the space feeling open.
If you rent, ask your landlord about temporary wallpaper options. Removable wallpaper in light patterns or colors can brighten up your space without damaging the walls.
Remember to keep your ceiling light-colored too. This helps draw the eye upward, making your room feel taller and more spacious.
3) Floating shelves
Floating shelves are a great way to add storage and style to your small living room. These wall-mounted shelves take up no floor space, making them perfect for tight quarters.
You can use floating shelves to display books, plants, or decorative items. They’re also handy for storing everyday essentials like remote controls or coasters.
Install a few shelves at different heights to create visual interest. Stagger them or align them in a column – both looks can work well depending on your space.
Choose shelves that match your decor style. Wood shelves add warmth, while sleek metal or glass options suit a more modern aesthetic.
Don’t overload the shelves. Keep some open space to avoid a cluttered look. A few well-chosen items will have more impact than crowding every inch.
4) Large mirrors
Big mirrors can make a small living room look bigger. Put a large mirror on a wall opposite a window. This will reflect light and make the space feel brighter and more open.
You can use a floor-to-ceiling mirror to create the illusion of height. Or try a wide horizontal mirror to make the room seem wider.
Choose a mirror with a simple frame that fits your style. A frameless mirror can blend in seamlessly. A decorative frame can add visual interest.
Place your mirror where it will reflect something nice, like a plant or artwork. This doubles the impact of your decor and makes the room more interesting.
5) Compact coffee table
A compact coffee table is key for small apartment living rooms. Look for slim designs that don’t take up much floor space. Round tables work well as they have no sharp corners to bump into.
Consider tables with built-in storage to maximize functionality. Options include lift-top tables or those with drawers or shelves underneath. This gives you a place to stash remotes, magazines, and other items.
Multi-purpose tables are also great for small spaces. Some coffee tables convert to dining tables or have adjustable heights. This versatility allows you to make the most of limited square footage.
6) Wall-mounted TV
A wall-mounted TV is a smart choice for small living rooms in apartments. It saves valuable floor space and creates a sleek look.
When mounting your TV, pick a spot that’s easy to see from your seating area. Make sure it’s not too high to avoid neck strain.
Hide cables behind the wall or use cable covers for a tidy appearance. This keeps your space looking clean and organized.
Consider a TV mount that can tilt or swivel. This lets you adjust the viewing angle as needed, which is helpful in small rooms.
To balance the look, add some artwork or floating shelves around the TV. This creates a stylish focal point in your living room.
7) Sliding barn doors
Sliding barn doors can transform your small apartment living room. They save space by eliminating the need for door clearance. You can use them to divide areas or hide storage.
Choose a style that fits your decor. Rustic wood doors add warmth, while sleek metal designs create a modern look. Paint them to match your walls for a seamless appearance.
Install barn doors on a closet to maximize floor space. Use them to conceal a TV or office nook when not in use. Double doors can separate your living room from a bedroom or dining area.
8) Vertical storage solutions
Small apartments often lack floor space, but you can make the most of your vertical space. Look up and use your walls for storage.
Install floating shelves to display books, plants, and decorative items. These shelves add storage without taking up floor space.
Use tall bookcases or cabinets that reach to the ceiling. This maximizes storage capacity and draws the eye upward, making your room feel larger.
Consider hanging organizers on the back of doors for shoes, accessories, or cleaning supplies. This keeps items off the floor and out of sight.
Mount hooks or pegboards on walls to hang coats, bags, or kitchen utensils. This keeps frequently used items easily accessible while saving space.
9) Area rugs
Area rugs can transform your small apartment living room. They add warmth and define spaces without taking up precious floor space.
Choose a rug that fits your room size. In small spaces, leave about 8 inches between the rug and walls. This creates the illusion of more space.
Light-colored rugs can make a room feel bigger. Patterns can add visual interest without cluttering the space.
Consider texture too. A plush rug adds comfort underfoot and can make your living room cozier.
Layering rugs is another option. Put a smaller, bolder rug on top of a larger, neutral one for added depth and style.
Rugs aren’t just for the floor. You can hang a beautiful rug on the wall as art in your small living room.
10) Minimalist decor
Minimalist decor can make your small apartment living room feel spacious and calm. Choose a few key pieces of furniture with clean lines and simple shapes. Stick to a neutral color palette for walls and larger items.
Keep surfaces clear of clutter. Display only a few carefully chosen decorative objects. Opt for hidden storage solutions to maintain a tidy appearance.
Use light, airy window treatments to let in natural light. Add texture with a soft rug or throw pillows in solid colors. Remember, less is more when it comes to minimalist design.
Select artwork thoughtfully. One large piece can make a bigger impact than many small ones. Keep your space feeling open by leaving some walls bare.
11) Nesting tables
Nesting tables are a smart choice for small apartment living rooms. These versatile pieces come in sets of two or three tables that stack together when not in use.
You can spread them out when you need extra surface area for guests or entertaining. When not needed, simply tuck them away to save space.
Look for nesting tables in various styles to match your decor. Options include sleek metal and glass designs or warm wood finishes.
Consider round nesting tables to soften the look of a boxy room. Or try tables with different heights to add visual interest to your space.
12) Murphy bed
A Murphy bed is a smart choice for small apartments. It folds up against the wall when not in use, freeing up floor space during the day.
You can find Murphy beds with built-in shelves or desks. This lets you create a home office or storage area that transforms into a bedroom at night.
Some Murphy beds come with sofas attached. This gives you a comfy seating area that easily converts to a sleeping space for guests.
When shopping for a Murphy bed, look for one that fits your room’s style. Many options blend seamlessly with existing decor, looking like cabinets or bookcases when closed.
Remember to measure your space carefully before buying. Make sure you have enough room to fold the bed down comfortably.
13) Tall bookcases
Tall bookcases are perfect for small apartment living rooms. They use vertical space efficiently, allowing you to store more items without taking up much floor area.
Choose a bookcase that reaches close to your ceiling. This creates the illusion of height and makes your room feel bigger.
Arrange your books and decor items thoughtfully. Put heavier items on lower shelves and lighter ones up top. This ensures stability and creates visual balance.
Consider a ladder-style bookcase. These lean against the wall and offer a modern look. They’re great for narrow spaces and corners.
Don’t overfill your bookcase. Leave some empty spaces to avoid a cluttered appearance. This also gives you room to add new items later.
14) Window seats
Window seats make great use of small spaces in apartments. They create cozy nooks for reading or relaxing while maximizing natural light.
You can add cushions and pillows to make the seat comfy. Pick fabrics that match your decor style.
Built-in storage under the seat gives you extra room to stash items. This helps keep your living area tidy and organized.
Window seats work well in bay windows or alcoves. But you can also build one along a regular window wall.
Add a small side table for drinks or books. Hang curtains for privacy when needed. With some creativity, a window seat can become your favorite spot in a small apartment.
15) Foldable furniture
Foldable furniture is a game-changer for small apartment living rooms. You can easily tuck away chairs, tables, and even beds when not in use.
Try a folding table that can serve as a dining area or workspace. When you’re done, simply fold it up against the wall.
Foldable chairs are perfect for extra seating. Store them in a closet or behind a door until guests arrive.
Consider a Murphy bed for studio apartments. It folds up into the wall, freeing up floor space during the day.
Foldable room dividers can create privacy in shared spaces. Use them to separate your sleeping area from the living room.
16) Compact dining set
A compact dining set is perfect for small apartment living rooms. Choose a table and chairs that fit snugly in your space without overwhelming it.
Round tables work well in tight spots. They take up less room and allow for easier movement around them. Look for tables with extendable leaves for added flexibility.
Opt for chairs that can be tucked completely under the table when not in use. This helps maximize floor space. Consider folding chairs or stackable options for easy storage.
Multi-functional pieces are great for small spaces. A drop-leaf table can serve as both a dining table and a console. You can also use dining chairs as extra seating in your living area when needed.
17) L-shaped sofas
L-shaped sofas are great for small apartment living rooms. They fit snugly into corners, making the most of limited space.
These sofas provide ample seating without taking up too much floor area. You can use them to create a cozy seating area in your living room.
L-shaped sofas help define separate zones in open-plan spaces. They act as natural room dividers between living and dining areas.
Choose a smaller L-shaped sofa for very tight spaces. Opt for one with built-in storage to maximize functionality in your small living room.
Place your L-shaped sofa against a wall to open up the center of the room. This layout creates a more spacious feel in compact apartments.
18) Hanging plants
Hanging plants add greenery to your small living room without taking up floor space. You can place them near windows or in corners to create visual interest.
Try pothos or spider plants, which are easy to care for and have long trailing vines. Hang them in macrame planters or simple pots with hooks for a stylish look.
For a unique touch, drape plants around mirrors or picture frames. This doubles the effect of the greenery and makes your room feel more lush.
Don’t forget about air plants. These tiny plants need no soil and can be displayed in glass orbs or geometric holders for a modern twist on hanging plants.
19) Bright throw pillows
Bright throw pillows can transform your small apartment living room. They add pops of color and personality to neutral furniture.
Choose vibrant hues that complement your existing decor. Mix and match different patterns and textures for visual interest.
You can easily swap out throw pillows to update your space seasonally. Try bold florals in spring or rich jewel tones in winter.
Don’t be afraid to go big with your pillow choices. Oversized pillows can make a small couch feel more luxurious and inviting.
Remember to vary the sizes of your pillows for a layered look. This creates depth and makes your living room feel more put together.
20) Under-sofa storage
Using the space under your sofa can help maximize storage in a small apartment living room. Look for boxes or containers that fit snugly underneath. These can hold items you don’t use often, like extra blankets or seasonal decor.
Some sofas come with built-in drawers or compartments. If yours doesn’t, consider buying slim storage boxes designed to slide under furniture. These often have wheels for easy access.
You can also use this space for flat items like board games, wrapping paper, or extra throw pillows. Just make sure to measure the clearance under your sofa before buying any storage solutions.
For a neat look, use matching boxes or baskets. This keeps everything tidy and easy to find when you need it. Under-sofa storage is a smart way to use every inch of space in your small living room.
21) Smart lighting
Smart lighting can transform your small apartment living room. You can control these lights with your phone or voice commands. This gives you easy control over brightness and color.
Use smart bulbs in your existing lamps and fixtures. They’re easy to install and don’t require new wiring. You can set schedules to turn lights on and off automatically.
Create different moods with color-changing bulbs. Warm tones make the room cozy, while cool tones are great for working. Smart light strips can add accent lighting behind furniture or TVs.
Motion sensors are useful too. They can turn lights on when you enter the room and off when you leave. This saves energy and adds convenience to your small space.
22) Accent wallpaper
Accent wallpaper can transform your small living room. Pick a bold pattern or color for one wall to create a focal point. This draws the eye and adds depth to the space.
Geometric designs work well in modern apartments. They add visual interest without overwhelming the room. Floral or nature-inspired patterns bring a touch of the outdoors in.
Consider a textured wallpaper to add dimension. Grass cloth or faux brick can give your wall a 3D effect. This creates the illusion of more space.
For a subtle look, try a tone-on-tone wallpaper. It adds elegance without being too loud. Light colors can make your room feel bigger and brighter.
Remember to keep the rest of your decor simple when using accent wallpaper. This lets your feature wall shine without cluttering the space.
23) Corner desks
Corner desks are a smart choice for small apartment living rooms. They make good use of awkward corner spaces that might otherwise go unused.
You can find corner desks in many styles to match your decor. Some have shelves or drawers for extra storage. Others are simple writing surfaces that tuck neatly into corners.
Corner desks work well as home office spaces in living rooms. They give you a dedicated spot to work without taking up too much room. When you’re done working, just tuck in the chair to keep the area tidy.
Consider a floating corner desk to save even more floor space. These mount to the wall and free up room underneath for storage bins or other items.
24) Rolling carts
Rolling carts are a smart addition to small living rooms. They offer flexible storage that can be moved around as needed. You can use them to store books, magazines, or other items you want to keep handy.
Choose a cart with multiple tiers to maximize vertical space. Look for ones with wheels that lock to keep the cart steady when not in motion. Some carts come with drawers or baskets for extra organization.
When not in use, roll the cart into a corner or under a table. This keeps your living area tidy and open. You can also use the top of the cart as a small side table next to your couch or chair.
25) Wall-mounted desk
A wall-mounted desk is a smart choice for small apartment living rooms. These desks attach directly to the wall, saving valuable floor space.
You can find wall-mounted desks in various styles and sizes to match your decor. Some models fold up when not in use, creating even more room.
Wall-mounted desks work well in corners or unused wall areas. They provide a dedicated workspace without taking up much space.
Choose a desk with built-in storage or shelving to maximize functionality. This gives you space for office supplies and decorative items.
When selecting a wall-mounted desk, consider its weight capacity and mounting requirements. Proper installation ensures safety and stability.
Color Schemes
The right colors can transform a small apartment living room. Smart color choices make spaces feel larger and more inviting. Neutral tones create a calm base, while accent colors add personality and visual interest.
Choosing Neutral Tones
Neutral colors form the foundation of a small living room’s color scheme. Light shades like white, beige, and gray open up the space. Paint walls in a soft off-white to reflect light. Use warm beige or greige for a cozy feel. Cool grays work well for a modern look.
Add depth with different shades of your chosen neutral. Use lighter tones on walls and ceilings. Apply slightly darker versions on trim and built-ins. This subtle contrast adds dimension without cluttering the eye.
Incorporate texture to keep neutrals interesting. Mix matte and glossy finishes. Use natural materials like wood, jute, and linen. These add warmth and prevent the room from feeling flat.
Accent Colors
Accent colors bring life to a neutral base. Choose 1-2 bold hues to use sparingly. Blue and green create a calm feel. Yellow and orange add energy. Red and purple offer drama.
Use the 60-30-10 rule as a guide:
- 60% neutral base color
- 30% secondary color
- 10% accent color
Apply accent colors through:
- Throw pillows
- Artwork
- Small furniture pieces
- Curtains or rugs
Change accents seasonally for a fresh look. Swap out pillows and decor items to match the time of year. This keeps your space feeling new without major changes.
Consider your lighting when choosing accents. Colors look different under natural vs. artificial light. Test samples in your space before committing.
Furniture Arrangement
Smart furniture placement can make a small apartment living room feel spacious and functional. The right layout and versatile pieces will help you maximize every inch of space.
Optimal Layout for Small Spaces
Start by measuring your room and creating a floor plan. Place the largest piece, usually the sofa, against the longest wall. This creates a focal point and maximizes seating.
Position chairs at right angles to the sofa to encourage conversation. Use a coffee table that’s proportional to the seating area.
Float furniture away from walls to create the illusion of more space. Leave pathways at least 30 inches wide for easy movement.
Consider traffic flow when arranging pieces. Don’t block doorways or natural pathways through the room.
Use vertical space by incorporating tall bookshelves or floor-to-ceiling curtains. This draws the eye up and makes the room feel larger.
Multi-Functional Furniture
Choose pieces that serve multiple purposes to save space. A storage ottoman can act as seating, a coffee table, and hidden storage.
Look for nesting tables that can be tucked away when not in use. A fold-down desk or dining table works well in tight spaces.
Opt for a sleeper sofa to accommodate overnight guests without dedicating space to a guest room. Select a model with built-in storage for extra bedding.
Consider modular furniture that can be rearranged as needed. Sectional sofas offer flexibility and can often seat more people than traditional sofas.
Use wall-mounted shelves or cabinets to free up floor space. A Murphy bed is ideal for studio apartments, allowing the living area to double as a bedroom.
Lighting Tips
Good lighting can make a small apartment living room feel bigger and more inviting. It helps create ambiance and improves functionality. Here are some key tips to enhance your space with light.
Maximizing Natural Light
Make the most of windows in your small living room. Keep curtains and blinds open during the day to let sunlight in. Choose light, sheer curtains that allow light to filter through.
Place furniture away from windows to avoid blocking light. Use light colors on walls and floors to reflect natural light and make the room brighter. Consider removing heavy window treatments altogether if privacy isn’t a concern.
Add plants near windows. They thrive in natural light and bring life to the space. Trim any outdoor plants or trees that may be blocking sunlight from entering your windows.
Use of Mirrors
Mirrors are a great tool to brighten and visually expand a small living room. Place a large mirror opposite a window to reflect natural light and create the illusion of more space.
Use mirrored furniture like coffee tables or side tables. They reflect light and add a touch of glamour. Hang multiple smaller mirrors in a gallery wall style to create interest and bounce light around the room.
Consider mirrored cabinet doors or a mirrored backsplash in adjacent spaces like a kitchenette. This helps carry light through connected areas. Position table lamps or floor lamps near mirrors to amplify their light output.
