In a studio apartment, space is at a premium. So you’ll want to pull out all the stops to make the most of what you’ve got. From room dividers to sleeping quarters, you need creative ways to use your space. Making those space-saving ideas look attractive can be a challenge – but, it can be done. Let me show you how.
• Ideas for Room Dividers
Whether you just want to section off a room visually or you need to create private space, room dividers seem to be number one on small apartment dweller’s wish lists. Here are two terrific ideas.
If your landlord won’t allow you to attach anything to the walls, floors or ceilings, you can still create a great room divider with a freestanding window wall, bookcase or a combination of both. Building a wall out of old windows creates a divider that keeps the space open on a visual plane – but, allows you to define separate areas for separate tasks. Or you can build a see-through bookcase for the same purpose. Can’t decide? Build a freestanding unit that has both window wall and bookcase in it for a stunning solution to a small-space problem.
Now if you can attach items to your ceiling, here’s an easy solution to making a private area for your sleeping quarters. Install a ceiling-mounted curtain track like the ones you see in hospitals. Then hang panels that complement your decor to give you privacy wherever you want it. To make it really cozy, drape your panels all around the bed to envelope your sleeping area in warmth and texture. But, only use a sliding track where you’ll be moving the curtains back and forth. That will help keep the installation cost down.
• Double Duty Daybeds
When you have to fit seating, a bed, closets, a home office and a ton of personal items in one, small place, a day bed may be the perfect solution to your space problems. There are so many sleek, tailored units that can work as a three-person sofa by day and a comfy place to sleep at night. You can also have room for guests if you find a daybed with a trundle unit underneath. Even better – get a pop-up trundle to give you the same amount of sleeping area you would get with a king size mattress.
• Creative Space Planning
Before you bring any furniture into your studio apartment – think about where it will go, how much space it will consume, what purpose it will serve and how it will visually add to the room. Rather than a small dresser, opt for a tall cabinet with drawers and cubbies that reach to the ceiling. Build a platform bed with a footboard that doubles as your computer desk or a suspended ceiling wall that houses your artwork and holds a row of light fixtures. Install wall mirrors or bring in mirror-front wardrobes that make the space look twice as big and create a more open feel to your apartment. Just be creative with the space you have using a little upfront thought and planning.
Check out the pictures and inspiration for this article in the Studio Apartments ideabook on Houzz. You’re sure to find an idea you’ll want to use in your small space that helps you feel like you’re living large.
Enjoy more home decor ideas from Terry Mulligan:
10 Tips to Take Your Next Decorating Project Over the Top
Fabulous Choices for Decorating with Throw Pillows
Budget-Friendly Dollar Store Finds Anyone Can Decorate With
