Find 3 Guiding Principles to Small Apartment Living

Living in a small apartment doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort, style, or function. In fact, compact spaces offer a special opportunity: to be creative, intentional, and personal with every design decision. Whether you're living in a two-bedroom apartment or designing one for your client, here are 3 guiding principles to make a small apartment feel spacious, practical, and beautiful.

Principle 1: Maximize Function with Smart Layout

In a small apartment, every square foot counts. That’s why layout is everything.

• Think multifunctional: A dining table can double as a work desk. A sofa can turn into a guest bed.

• Use vertical space: Install tall cabinets, wall-mounted shelves, and storage lofts.

• Define zones without walls: Use rugs, lighting, or furniture placement to separate living, dining, and sleeping areas.

Hera Extra Tip: Start with a floor plan. Think about daily routines — where do you cook, work, relax, or sleep? Then let the design support those habits.

Principle 2: Light + Color = Visual Space

The right use of light and color can visually expand even the tiniest room.

• Go light and bright: White, beige, soft grey, and pastel tones reflect light and make rooms feel bigger.

• Let natural light flow: Use sheer curtains, light-filtering blinds, or none at all for a breezy look.

• Use mirrors wisely: A large mirror on a wall or wardrobe door adds depth and doubles the light.

• Keep furniture low-profile: Pieces with thin legs and simple lines give the illusion of openness.

Hera Extra Tip: Keep color palettes cohesive throughout the unit — this avoids visual clutter and makes transitions feel smooth.

Principle 3: Add Personality through Smart Styling

Small doesn’t mean boring — you can absolutely inject style and warmth into a compact home.

• Choose a theme you love: Whether it’s Scandinavian, Japandi, Minimalist Modern, or Cozy Luxe, stick to one main concept.

• Use soft furnishings: Curtains, rugs, throws, and cushions add texture and comfort without taking up space.

• Add character with art and accessories: A few framed prints, books, or vases can tell your story.

• Don’t overcrowd: Curate what you display — let each item have space to “breathe.”

Hera Extra Tip: Style in layers — think soft lighting, small plants, artwork, and scent (candles or diffusers) for a homey feel.

Photo credit: Suria Decor Sdn Bhd