A Small Studio Apartment Gets a Large Dose of Function and Style
See how a two-room apartment went from bland and awkward to bright and functional by making smart furniture choices, reworking the office space and adding some rich color.
By:
Laurie March
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Before: Solitary Confinement
Studio apartments can feel limiting, but by making a few thoughtful changes – you can set them free.
After: Bailed Out
Purposeful furniture choices and arrangement transform this formally cramped room. Simple, gorgeous style elements welcome guests into all of the new space. Watch the video of this makeover >>
Before: Basic and Bland
This white, drab kitchen entry, decorated with a litter box, is enough to make anyone lose their appetite.
Now We’re Cooking
Sometimes adding the right furniture to a small space can make it feel bigger. No longer deserted, this apartment’s kitchen becomes the dessert! See more renter-friendly kitchen updates >>
High Hopes
It is crucial to use the vertical space in a studio apartment. Not only will the amount of storage increase, it will draw the eye up and make the room feel bigger.
Magnetic Memories
A magnetic chain displays some solid gold photos, while adding a touch of bling itself.
Hat’s Off
It might be instinctual to hide a bed in a studio, but highlighting it can work well, too. This shiny, classy queen-sized piece of art complements the apartment proudly. Get furniture-buying tips for renters >>
Work Life Balance
Designating a specific space for your work – no matter how small – gives it a place of importance. When the time comes, closing the curtains will give you a little peace and rest. See more projects from this home office makeover >>
Take A Look At Nooks
There can be no square foot unused in a studio. Comb a watchful eye over every corner to see if creative custom shelving might solve some problems.
Design Details
Just because an apartment is efficient, doesn’t mean it can’t be attractive. Washi tape creates a chic faux chair detail to the room.
You Gotta Vent
Sometimes certain practical elements within an apartment are permanent – but not unchangeable. Camouflage can be a pretty glamorous solution.
Line It Up
Echoing clean lines throughout a space can give it a cohesive look. Shiny brass and gold accents also keep light moving throughout the apartment.
Great Graphics
Midcentury modern design can lend itself to some exciting prints. Solid walls and furniture are important in a small area, but you should feel free to have fun with your fabrics.
Big Piece, Big Purpose
When it comes to small studio apartments, every piece of furniture needs to pull its weight. This double credenza brings storage and tabletop real estate while managing to keep a low profile.
Brass Tacks
A hammered brass bowl contributes to the apartment’s style story and becomes a very important place to store keys, cards and other important essentials.
Shoe-In
Beautiful baskets can provide great homes to items that tend to scatter easily, like shoes. The woven texture adds a warmth to the room.
Eye-Catching Efficiency
The key to living comfortably in a studio is defining the purpose and place for each thing in it. No need to sacrifice style along with your square feet, however. This place might be small, but it’s stylish.
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