Given the housing boom of the 21st century, the saying "small but my own" is gaining more and more popularity. Studio flats and two-room apartments on the primary market usually sell in the blink of an eye. Why? Firstly, buyers are simply driven by the desire to own a home they can afford, and secondly – investment goals come into play.
Whatever the reasons, one thing is certain – a small apartment is definitely not a synonym for a lack of functionality or space. Quite the opposite! Residents of small properties describe them as a cosy, intimate and above all family corner where every household member feels good (and does not have to do too much cleaning). And although it might seem at first glance that arranging, say, 40 m² is jumping in at the deep end because of the very limited possibilities, a few proven tricks are enough to make the most of a small apartment's potential.
Proven tricks for visually enlarging a small apartment
Visually enlarging rooms is, contrary to appearances, not difficult at all. When arranging a small apartment, it is worth deciding on several important matters right at the start that will ultimately help you achieve the "WOW" effect. These include, above all, a well-chosen wall colour, the type of flooring and the furniture. But let us take it step by step.
Light colours play first fiddle
Do you also get the impression, when entering a white room, that it is really spacious? Exactly! That is because light colours reflect light, so do not bother leafing through the Pantone colour catalogue – stick to really simple shades. White, ecru, subtle grey or delicate pastels will definitely hit the bullseye!
This piece of floor is yours
So choose it well! In a small apartment, it is not only light walls that look far better than dark shades. The colour of the floor will also be hugely important. In this case it is worth opting for a uniform pattern, preferably in light colours, keeping it consistent in every room. Not convinced by such a design? And what if we add that monochromatic floors are number 1 in New York lofts? That sounds better straight away, doesn't it?
Create your dream interior style
Does a small apartment have to mean minimalism? Although such an arrangement generally works best, no one will tell you that you cannot decorate in the "glamour" style. Subtle accents in the form of designer worktops or fronts, plus large amounts of glazing and mirrors and as much light as possible in various forms and places – we say yes. The optical illusion will thank you for it too.
What furniture should you choose for a small apartment?
When arranging a small apartment, trust your creativity and modern trends, because the market is full of functional solutions that work brilliantly in smaller spaces. Multifunctional modular furniture reaching to the ceiling, hanging organisers, pull-out cabinets and shelves… These are just a few ideas worth considering. Remember, though, to stay in the spirit of light shades and lightweight constructions. In your place we would consider made-to-measure furniture. If you plan the space well, you will have room even for (seemingly) unnecessary items.
Three zones that a small apartment cannot do without
As a rule, every apartment, even the smallest one, should have at least three separate zones that ensure the full comfort of its residents and enhance the functionality of the whole space. This division is nothing other than distinguishing the entrance zone (i.e. the hallway or vestibule), the living zone (the living room, living room with a kitchen annexe, dining room) and the private zone (bedroom, children's room, study). Thanks to this, everyone can spend time in the apartment as they wish: with the family or in private, while keeping everything in order.
Small apartments hold great potential. All you need to do is discover it with a head full of fresh ideas or with the help of an architect.
If you are at the stage of furnishing your own home, we keep our fingers crossed that you achieve the results you dream of!
Check out our ready houses near Warsaw.
