Rental prices are, on average, 25% higher than they were a few short years ago, making it difficult to find a place to call your own. But if you’re sick of rooming with three other people and want to upgrade to a studio of your own, that presents its own issues. If you’re living in a studio apartment, you might start feeling a little bit claustrophobic. After all, when your bedroom, living room and kitchen are all in one room, it can be tough to find a sense of privacy, separation and peace. But don’t worry — it is possible to make the most of your small space and create a comfortable, stylish studio apartment that feels like home. From choosing the right bedroom furniture to multipurpose solutions and creative storage ideas, here are eleven tips for decorating a studio apartment on a budget.
1. Make Use of Vertical Space
When dealing with a small space, it’s important to use every square inch — including the vertical space. For example, install shelves along the walls to create additional storage space and hang window curtains close to the ceiling to make the room feel taller. You can also use vertical space to create visual interest and focal points. For example, hung artwork or an attractive light fixture will draw the eye upward and make the room feel more spacious.
2. Use Light Colors and Mirrors to Reflect Light
Another way to make your studio apartment feel larger is to use light colors and mirrors throughout the space. Light colors help reflect light, making the room feel brighter and more open. Mirrors can also create the illusion of more space — hang them across from windows so that they reflect natural light back into the room.
3. Choose the Right Furniture
Furniture selection is crucial in a small space — you want stylish and functional pieces. Look for furniture that can serve multiple purposes like a coffee table that doubles as storage or a daybed that can be used as a sofa during the day and a bed at night. Be sure to measure each piece before buying it to know it will fit in your space!
4. Get Creative with Storage Solutions
We already mentioned the coffee table idea, but there are other ways to get creative with storage solutions in your studio apartment. Look for pieces that can serve multiple purposes like an ottoman with built-in storage or a bookshelf that doubles as a room divider. And don’t forget about the space under your bed! Investing in some storage containers or bins is a great way to make use of this often-forgotten space.
5. Create Zones
One way to make your small space feel more spacious is to create distinct zones within the room. For example, you might have a sleeping area, a living area and a dining area. Using furniture or room dividers to define these areas will help give each one its own identity and make the overall space more open and airy.
6. Bring in Nature
Incorporating greenery into your decor is not only on-trend, but it can also help make your studio apartment feel more spacious and serene. Plants add visual interest and can help purify the air, making the space feel more refreshing. If you don’t have a green thumb, consider opting for fake plants. They may not offer the same air-purifying benefits, but they’ll still look great.
7. Use a Bed as a Focal Point
Make your bed the focal point of the room instead of trying to hide it and tuck it away. You can still use shelving and curtains creatively to establish those zones we mentioned before, but making your bed the center of attention will help create a more comfortable and enjoyable space. Be sure to browse different sizes of mattresses to find the one that will work best in your space and pair it with a low-profile bed frame to keep the room feeling open.
8. Let in the Light
Natural light can do wonders for a small space, so be sure to take advantage of it in your studio apartment. If possible, arrange your furniture near windows, so the room feels bright and airy. And if you don’t have windows that let in tons of light, consider investing in artificial light sources, like lamps or string lights, to help brighten up the space.
9. Consider Multipurpose Solutions
When decorating a small space, you must be thoughtful about every piece you bring in. So instead of including many small items that serve one purpose, look for multipurpose solutions that can do double duty. For example, there are side tables that flip out to become workstations or even dining room tables. Simply flip up one or both leaves when you need the extra surface area and fold them down when you don’t. They can live comfortably next to your sofa or bed, providing an excellent spot for working, eating or entertaining guests. But only when needed. Otherwise, they’re an innocuous side table.
10. Accessorize with Personal Touches
Your space should reflect your personal style, so don’t be afraid to accessorize with items that reflect your interests and personality. Hang up some artwork or photos, display collections of objects or add a few extra bedding pillows to make the space feel more like home. These personal touches will help create a space that feels inviting and unique.
11. Don’t Be Afraid to DIY
Sometimes what you want for your studio apartment space is out of our price range, or it simply doesn’t exist. Enter DIY solutions for the win! By taking matters into your own hands, you can create a truly unique space tailored to your specific needs. Not to mention, DIY projects are a great way to add personal touches to your decor. So if you’re feeling crafty, don’t be afraid to try your hand at making some of your own furniture or decorations!
Final Thoughts on Studio Apartment Living
With a little bit of creativity, it is possible to turn even the smallest studio apartment into a cozy, stylish home. Following the tips above can make your studio feel more spacious and welcoming. And remember, don’t be afraid to get creative and personalize the space to make it your own!
