10 Brilliant Space-Saving Ideas for Small Apartments

Living in a small apartment can be tricky, but with some clever furniture choices, you can make the most of your limited space. From beds that fold away to tables that double as storage, there are plenty of smart solutions to help you live comfortably and stylishly in a compact home. Here are ten brilliant space-saving ideas to transform your small apartment.

Key Takeaways

• Murphy beds can be folded up to save space when not in use.
• Bunk beds are great for kids' rooms, providing extra play area.
• Sofa beds offer seating during the day and a comfortable bed at night.
• Wall-mounted desks free up floor space and provide a functional workspace.
• Storage ottomans combine seating with hidden storage for blankets, books, or pillows.

1. Murphy Bed

A Murphy bed, also known as a wall bed, is a fantastic solution for small apartments. This clever piece of furniture can be folded up against the wall when not in use, freeing up valuable floor space. It's perfect for those who need a bedroom design that maximises space.

There are different types of Murphy beds to suit various needs:

• Vertical Murphy Bed: This type uses your wall's vertical space to fold the bed upright on the wall.
• Horizontal Murphy Bed: These beds are positioned horizontally on the wall, making them ideal for rooms with lower ceilings.

Murphy beds are not just practical; they can also be stylish. Many designs come with built-in shelves or cabinets, adding extra storage options. This makes them a great addition to any small apartment looking to optimise space without sacrificing style.

Imagine hiding your entire bed to create extra space. A Murphy bed, with its clever hideaway feature, will enable you to do exactly this! It’s the ‘now you see it, now you don’t’ magic trick your small bedroom needs.

2. Bunk Bed

Bunk beds are a fantastic way to save space in a small apartment or condo. They are especially useful in a kids room, where you need to fit multiple beds into a limited area. By stacking beds on top of each other, you free up valuable floor space for other activities or furniture.

One of the best things about bunk beds is their versatility. They come in various designs, including those with built-in storage options. This means you can have drawers or shelves integrated into the bed frame, providing extra storage without taking up additional space.

If you have a loft bed, you can maximise space in a big way. Typically featuring built-in desks and added storage, a raised bed can often be the answer to your small space woes.

Benefits of Bunk Beds

• Space-saving: Utilises vertical space, freeing up the floor.
• Versatile: Available in various designs, including those with storage.
• Ideal for kids rooms: Perfect for fitting multiple beds in a limited area.

Considerations

• Safety: Ensure the top bunk has guardrails.
• Ceiling height: Make sure there's enough space between the top bunk and the ceiling.
• Accessibility: Consider how easy it is to climb up and down.

Bunk beds are not just for kids; they can be a stylish and practical solution for any small living space. Whether you're in an apartment or a condo, a bunk bed can help you make the most of your available space.

3. Sofa Bed

A sofa bed is a fantastic addition to any small apartment. During the day, it serves as a comfortable seating area for you and your guests. But at night, it effortlessly transforms into a cosy bed, providing a restful sleep experience. With a sofa bed, you no longer have to sacrifice comfort or space. It's the perfect solution for those who want to make the most out of their limited square footage without compromising on style.

Benefits of a Sofa Bed

• Multi-functional: Acts as both a sofa and a bed.
• Space-saving: Ideal for small apartments.
• Stylish: Available in various designs to match your decor.

Choosing the Right Sofa Bed

When selecting a sofa bed, consider the following:

1. Size: Ensure it fits your space when both folded and unfolded.
2. Comfort: Test the mattress for a good night's sleep.
3. Design: Pick a style that complements your existing furniture.

A sofa bed is a must-have for small spaces. It provides a practical and stylish solution for maximising your living area.

For more ideas on space-saving furniture, check out the [19 best sofas for small spaces in 2024](#).

4. Wall-Mounted Desk

A wall-mounted desk is a fantastic way to save space in a small apartment. These desks attach directly to the wall, freeing up valuable floor space. When not in use, they can be folded up, making them almost invisible. This makes them perfect for a home office setup in tight spaces.

• Space Efficiency: By mounting the desk on the wall, you avoid taking up floor space, which can be used for other purposes.
• Versatility: Many wall-mounted desks come with additional features like shelves or compartments, providing extra storage.
• Aesthetic Appeal: These desks often have a sleek, modern look that can enhance the overall decor of your apartment.

A wall-mounted desk that attaches to the wall, taking up less space in your room but still giving you ample space on top and three open shelves, is a brilliant solution for small apartments.

5. Storage Ottoman

A storage ottoman is a fantastic addition to any small apartment. These versatile pieces come with hollow interiors, making them perfect for storing items like blankets, books, or pillows. They can also serve as additional seating or tables, adding to their functionality.

Benefits of a Storage Ottoman

• Versatility: Use it as a seat, table, or storage unit.
• Space-saving: Keeps your apartment tidy by hiding clutter.
• Stylish: Available in various designs to match your decor.

A storage ottoman is the ultimate guide to space-saving furniture. It combines style and function, making it a must-have for small living spaces.

6. Coffee Table with Storage

A coffee table with storage is a fantastic way to keep your living room tidy and organised. Instead of using a coffee table that only has a top surface, choose one that doubles as a storage vessel. This can either be a round coffee table with a removable top that has a storage basket as its base or a coffee table with shelves or drawers. A lift-top coffee table with three hidden storage drawers is ideal for those with little to no space. Use them for storing books, remote controls, or even board games.

Benefits of a Coffee Table with Storage

• Maximises Space: By combining a coffee table with storage, you save space and reduce clutter.
• Versatile Use: These tables can store various items, from magazines to blankets.
• Stylish Options: Available in many designs to match your decor.

Types of Coffee Tables with Storage

1. Lift-Top Coffee Tables: These tables have a top that lifts up to reveal hidden storage underneath.
2. Shelved Coffee Tables: These come with built-in shelves for easy access to items.
3. Drawer Coffee Tables: Equipped with drawers to keep things out of sight but within reach.

A coffee table with storage is not just a piece of furniture; it's a smart solution for small apartments. It helps you keep your living area neat while providing extra storage space.

Tips for Choosing the Right Coffee Table with Storage

• Measure Your Space: Ensure the table fits well in your living room without overcrowding it.
• Consider Your Needs: Think about what items you need to store and choose a table with appropriate storage options.
• Match Your Style: Pick a design that complements your existing furniture and decor.

7. Hidden Storage Bench

A hidden storage bench is a fantastic way to maximise space in a small apartment. This clever piece of furniture not only provides a place to sit but also offers a secret compartment to store various items. It's perfect for keeping things out of sight and maintaining a tidy living area.

Consider placing a hidden storage bench in your entryway, living room, or bedroom. You can store shoes, books, or even extra bedding inside. This is one of the most practical space-saving ideas for small spaces.

• Ideal for entryways to store shoes and umbrellas.
• Great for living rooms to hide away magazines and remote controls.
• Perfect for bedrooms to keep extra pillows and blankets.

A hidden storage bench is a simple yet effective solution to declutter your home while adding a stylish touch to your decor.

8. Stackable Chairs

Stackable chairs are a fantastic solution for small apartments. They can be used creatively to redefine spaces. For example, they can serve as additional seating in a home office or as temporary seating for guests. When not in use, they can be easily stacked and stored away, freeing up valuable floor space.

Benefits of Stackable Chairs

• Space-saving: Stackable chairs take up minimal space when not in use.
• Versatile: They can be used in various settings, from dining areas to home offices.
• Easy to store: Simply stack them up and tuck them away.

Tips for Choosing Stackable Chairs

1. Look for lightweight materials to make stacking easier.
2. Choose designs that complement your existing decor.
3. Consider the comfort level, especially if they will be used frequently.

Stackable chairs can be a game-changer for small apartments, offering both functionality and style without compromising on space.

9. Multi-Purpose Shelves

Multi-purpose shelves are a fantastic way to maximise space in small apartments. These shelves are not just for books; they can hold a variety of household items, making them incredibly versatile. One of the main benefits of these shelves is the extra storage space they provide. They take advantage of oft-overlooked vertical real estate to keep your home organised and clutter-free.

Consider using multi-purpose shelves in different rooms:

• Living Room: Use them to host your television, stereo system, and decorative items.
• Kitchen: Perfect for storing utensils, cookbooks, and even small appliances.
• Bathroom: Ideal for toiletries, towels, and other essentials.

Multi-purpose shelves can transform your wall into a functional, organised display, making them a must-have for any small apartment.

10. Vertical Storage Units

Vertical storage units are a fantastic way to maximise space in small apartments. By utilising the height of your rooms, you can store more items without taking up valuable floor space. These units are perfect for keeping your home organised and clutter-free.

Consider the following benefits of vertical storage units:

• They make use of otherwise wasted vertical space.
• They can be used in any room, from the kitchen to the bedroom.
• They help keep frequently used items within easy reach.

A great example of a vertical storage unit is a tall bookshelf. You can store books, decorative items, and even small storage bins on the shelves. Another option is a vertical cabinet, which can be used to store anything from cleaning supplies to pantry items.

When space is limited, thinking vertically can make a huge difference. By incorporating vertical storage units, you can make the most of even the most snug space.

In summary, vertical storage units are a versatile and practical solution for small apartments. They help you stay organised and make the most of your available space.

Vertical storage units are perfect for saving space in your home. They help you keep things tidy and organised. Want to see more options? Visit our website for a wide range of choices that fit your needs.