Stepping out into the “real world” can be daunting at its core—and finding a place to call home is usually at the top of the list. Add decorating an apartment to the mix and things can feel overwhelming quickly. Decorating an apartment can be a challenge, especially when you’re working with a studio space measuring 500 square feet or less. Add a tight budget to the mix, and the design process becomes extra-tricky. Fortunately, a few dollar-stretching guidelines can help. If you’re wondering how to decorate your studio apartment on a budget, then take advantage of these handy tips.
Use Multifunctional Furniture
In the course of decorating a studio apartment, designer and blogger Emily Henderson recommends optimizing every square inch of space. By serving more than one purpose, multifunctional furniture saves you space and saves you money. Henderson suggests choosing a sofa that converts to a bed, for example, and a coffee table that provides storage for magazines, television accessories, and more. For additional multipurpose furniture ideas try:
- A bookshelf that doubles as a room divider
- A chair that folds into a bed
- A dual-purpose desk and nightstand
Make the Most of Wall and Ceiling Space
To keep clutter to a minimum in a studio apartment, make the most of your wall and ceiling space. Install plenty of inexpensive adhesive hooks throughout your apartment to keep clothing, towels, and other items off the furniture or floor. For extra efficiency in the kitchen, dangle pots and pans from a ceiling rack, and mount a vertical garden loaded with live herbs on a sunny wall. Instead of a pricy console for your TV, hang it on the wall, and mount affordable floating shelves for storing books and collectibles.
Let There Be Light
Nothing makes an apartment appear larger than lots of natural light. In lieu of heavy drapes, hang filmy curtains, and keep your windowpanes crystal clear. Make your apartment appear brighter with light-colored furniture, bedding, and accessories, and add artificial light where needed with floor lamps, table lamps, and string lights.
During the warmer months, brighten up your apartment with summer decorations like fresh flowers, garden-inspired table decor, seashell vases, and colorful throw pillows — all items that are typically easy on your bank account.
Decorate with Faux Glass and Mirrors
Glass furniture makes a good option for smaller spaces because it delivers function without adding visual bulk. Whereas opaque furniture absorbs light, clear furniture bounces it around the room, making your living space appear larger and airier. If you’re looking for an ultra-sturdy, less expensive alternative to glass, then shop for Plexiglass furniture. Think tables, chairs, desks, and footstools, and for even more light-bouncing effects, place wall mirrors or large floor mirrors opposite sunny windows.
Discover Smart Storage Solutions
In spite of its small size, your studio apartment doesn’t have to feel cramped and cluttered. Take advantage of these smart storage solutions for maximizing space.
- Tuck risers under the corners of your bed for extra storage space below.
- Mount corner shelving for houseplants and knickknacks.
- Use over-door hangers to hold towels, gym bags, backpacks, and laundry bags.
- Fill narrow, floor-to-ceiling wall space with vertical bookshelves.
- Purchase a radiator cover with built-in shelving.
Living in a small space can be a challenge, but these handy tips can help you understand how to decorate your studio apartment on a budget. If you need new-to-you furniture to make it happen, then consider CORT Clearance Centers. No matter what pieces you choose, you can outfit your space with everything you need to feel right at home.
