Don’t let living in an apartment that has smaller spaces stop you from turning into a beautiful and stylish home. Picture: Freepik
Living in a flat or an apartment comes with many advantages, such convenience, affordability and a low-maintenance lifestyle, but this arrangement does have its limitations, especially when it comes to space.
Marc Plastow, Sectional Title Specialist at Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty in Cape Town said: “Over and above more accessible pricing, apartments offer myriad benefits.”
“But, living in a flat does often mean working with limited space and creative solutions are required to deal with potential clutter and ensure the space does not feel cramped.”
Here’s how you can transform a small apartment into a functional and stylish home without breaking the budget.
According to Plastow, furniture that is multifunctional can help people living in an apartment or flat to reduce clutter, enhance functionality, and create a more organised environment.
These versatile items adapt to various needs, offering flexibility and efficiency in home design. Using this type of furniture will allow you to enjoy a stylish and practical living space without sacrificing comfort or utility.
Sofa beds and daybeds can serve as comfortable seating during the day and cosy beds at night. This is perfect for studio and one-bedroom flats where there is limited space for guests.
Murphy beds can fold up into the wall when not in use, which will allow you to free up valuable floor space when not in use. Some designs even include extra storage options like shelves and cabinets.
With expandable dining tables you can accommodate people on a daily basis but can also extend to host more guests.
Ottomans and benches with built-in storage provide a place to sit or rest your feet while also hiding away items like blankets, books, or remote controls.
Wall-mounted desks that fold down when needed and fold back up when not in use help create a functional workspace without occupying floor space.
Storage is often a challenge in apartments due to limited space. This can be a challenge if you have an organised living environment.
Make use of the vertical space in the apartment by installing shelves, cabinets, or pegboards. High shelves can store less frequently used items, while lower shelves keep daily essentials. Pegboards can be used can organise tools and supplies.
Invest in a bed base that has built-in drawers or use storage bins that fit under the bed to store off-season clothing, shoes, or extra linen.
Over-the-door organisers can use up otherwise wasted space in bathrooms, closets, and kitchens. You can use them to store everything from shoes and accessories to cleaning supplies and pantry items.
Hooks and racks that are mounted on the wall can hold coats, bags, keys, and other items that tend to clutter surfaces. In the kitchen, hooks can also keep pots, pans, and utensils.
Nesting tables or stackable chairs offer extra seating when needed and can then be tucked away when not in use.
When space is limited, layout, furniture placement and accessories are vital tools that will allow you to optimise space.
Even in an open concept space, it's important to define different zones for various activities. You can use rugs, furniture placement, or screens to create distinct areas for sleeping, dining, working, and relaxing.
Mirrors reflect light and create the illusion of a larger space so place them opposite windows to maximise natural light while light colours on walls, furniture, and decor can make a small space feel airy and open.
Arrange furniture to enhance flow and accessibility. You should avoid blocking pathways while ensuring there's enough space to move around comfortably. Floating furniture away from walls can also create a more open feel.
Built-in furniture like benches, shelving units and desks are a good investment as they can save space and provide a seamless look.
IOL Property