Millions of Americans are currently living in small spaces, defined as those measuring 1,000 square feet or less.
In fact, in 2024, the average apartment in the US reached just 908 square feet in size.
If you fall into this category, don’t worry. Small doesn’t have to mean boring!
When it comes to small space decorating, just a few smart design decisions can make a surprisingly big impact.
If you’re looking for practical, stylish, and space-savvy decor, here’s how to get started.
Start with a Space Plan
Small space decorating requires strategic planning. So, start by creating a visual of the room.
Use a space planner or good, old-fashioned pen and paper to create a birds-eye mock-up. It’s not always easy, but try to work to scale.
Then, add your bigger items, like rugs and furniture. Play around with placement to maximize flow and roominess.
You can also experiment with zones, which help define and segment rooms. For example, try mocking up an entryway zone to simplify shoe and backpack storage in a narrow hallway. Or, split an open-concept area into distinct dining and living zones.
It seems counterintuitive, but it can actually be one of the most efficient ways to maximize space!
You can use rugs, lighting, curtains, or room dividers to create visual boundaries in each area.
Consider Color and Light
Your strategy shouldn’t stop at the floor plan! Color and light can have a big impact on small space decorating, too.
Light and bright colors can instantly open up a room, making it feel larger and airier than it is. White is always a good option here, but other pale neutrals or even pastel shades can play similarly.
If a fresh coat of paint isn’t in the scope, no worries. Strategic use of light can also make your space feel that much more expansive.
Try to maximize any existing light sources, like windows or glass doors.
Hang sheer curtains that let the light in without compromising on privacy, or drapes in a color similar to the walls, which can create a greater sense of continuity. You might also consider placing curtain rods high and wide, so panels hide the edges of your windows. This gives the illusion of larger egresses.
Mirrors might also be your best friend. Strategically placed mirrors can bounce light around the room as well as create an optical illusion of more space.
Finally, just try to avoid heavy drapes, bulky decor, or high-contrast color stories. Unfortunately, they can visually shrink the room.
Invest in Multi-Functional Furniture
Small space decorating is all about doing more with less. Furniture is no exception. So, you might try to find furniture that can do double duty. Ottomans with interior storage compartments, fold-out desks, sofa beds, and extendable dining tables are all great options.
Basically, the goal here is to maximize square footage with just a few key pieces that meet multiple needs.
But, before you “add to cart”, remember: Furniture is one of the largest expenses in most home decorating projects. Investing in useful, well-built pieces, when possible, can be a good idea. But don’t overlook the benefit of some second-hand shopping, either.
Maximize Vertical Space
Once you’ve found the right furniture pieces, the next step in effective small-space decorating is, well… up.
Because the reality is that you don’t have to forgo some of the most impactful decorative accents, no matter how small your space is. Think: art, books, trinkets, and other odds and ends.
That’s where maximizing vertical space comes into play.
Consider some floating shelves, hanging planters, extra-tall bookcases, and over-door storage solutions.
Then, you can deck them out with accents that match your own personal style, for maximum interest and personality.
The goal here is “up, not out” thinking.
Keep It Clutter-Free
Things tend to get cluttered that much faster when you’re living in a small space. After all, there are just fewer spots to store everything.
Then, the clutter itself can also create visual noise, reducing that sense of openness you’ve tried so hard to create. In other words, the problem can quickly compound on itself.
So, the next step is cutting down on clutter — or at least keeping it hidden.
Start by paring down your belongings. Sort through everything, throwing things out or donating when appropriate.
Then, find a home for anything you choose to keep.
And you might just have to go on a bit of a scavenger hunt for spots with untapped storage potential.
Consider placing some drawers under your bed, a few pretty baskets on top of the kitchen cabinets, or some bins in the dead space under the stairs.
Once everything is in its place, make a habit of regularly decluttering to keep your space light, bright, and organized.
Wrapping Up: Your Guide to Small Space Decorating
At the end of the day, small spaces can be beautiful, functional, and full of style. It just takes a little bit of legwork to get there!
If you can start from a place of intention, embrace creativity, and commit to changing course when needed, you’ll be well on your way to effective small space decorating.
And we truly can’t wait to see what you create!
Published on August 27, 2025
