Small Apartment Decorating Ideas To Create Big Style

Enhancing Your Entrance

Nothing says big style like a jazzed-up entryway. It is, after all, the first "room" seen upon entering the home. But it can be tricky to design because many entrances are narrow hallways that don't have much space for decor.

An easy solution is a console table. It's important for it to be narrow enough that it leaves ample room for a walkway but substantial enough that it's still practical. The Stately Home Console Table, with drawers and shelving, is a perfect balance because it's long and lean but you can hide household objects (like batteries and matches) in the drawers and even put your shoes on the bottom shelf.

On top of it, put decorative bowls for keys, some faux flowers (it's usually a dark area so live plants might not thrive), and a picture frame or scented candle. Consider hanging some pegs behind the front door so you can store coats and bags and keep them out of the way and largely out of sight. Finally, put a fun piece of art behind the console table, and you've got a stylish and functional entryway.

Focusing on the Kitchen

Most apartment kitchens are cramped spaces that don't always inspire lots of cooking. But, I love kitchens. They are the soul of the home and, if styled accordingly, can be inviting, practical and aesthetically pleasing.

Not many apartment kitchens have room for dining in, but if you have a countertop, you can get some backless bar stools to tuck under the counter and save space. It'll be a go-to eating nook, and when you have a few friends over, they can sip on a drink while you cook.

Keep the kitchen countertops as clutter-free as possible by having utensils neatly tucked away. If you're able to put items like spatulas and whisks in a drawer, do so in order to maximize counter space.

Lastly, don't forget the walls! The kitchen often functions as a gathering place, so hang fun art and a corkboard to pin mementos and reminders.

Expanding Living Room Seating

Nothing makes a room feel smaller than a sofa that touches each end of the space, and we certainly don't want that! So choose a sofa that is appropriate for the size of the room.

A good rule of thumb to follow suggests the sofa should be about two-thirds the size of the room, leaving enough space for a cocktail table or a standing lamp. It is always lovely to have ambient light on each sofa arm, but it does not need to be symmetrical. In fact, it can look quite cool to pair a traditional table lamp with a modern standing one.

And if you only have enough room for a love seat, don't fret—you can add additional versatile seating like poufs or ottomans. These pieces make for great additions to the space as they add flair, feel lighter and can be easily moved around.

Updating Living Room Decor

Living room decorations should be a reflection of your personality and lifestyle. Choose art that resonates with you—whether you want a calming environment or something a little bolder. Either way, hang a larger piece (or a collage of pieces) above the couch to add interest and conversation.

If you have limited space, consider mounting your TV on the wall so the living room does not get overcrowded by an additional media console table. If you do have enough room for a stand, however, opt for one that hides the cable box and wires, so they are not always on display. Having an orderly living room can make it feel smart and styled.

Finally, select an area rug that is suitable for the space by choosing one that is at least six inches wider than the sofa. A rug can be a fun place to add a pop of color, and if you fall in love with a patterned one, blemishes and stains can be easily disguised.