Best Interior Design Ideas for Small Spaces

Aasif Khan [Interior Stylist]

6/14/20254 min read

Interior Design Ideas for Small Spaces
Interior Design Ideas for Small Spaces

Best Interior Design Ideas for Small Spaces

Discover Best Interior Design Ideas for Small Spaces of your area.

Small space design can be difficult, but there are many ways to help your small space feel chic, functional and comfortable to live in. Living large does not apply only to having a gigantic home; even a small flat, small studio, or mini-house can be design-savvy and space-efficient. In this piece we touch on the best interior design ideas for small spaces in the bedroom, kitchen, bathroom and living room.

1. General Principles of Small Space Design

2. Bedroom Design Ideas for Small Spaces

But first, it’s helpful to understand some basic design concepts of small spaces before getting into room-specific advice:

  • Keep it simple: little to no decorations and furniture.

  • Dual-purpose furniture: Use furniture that has more than one function, like a bed with drawers for storage or a folding dining table that folds into the wall.

  • Light colors: Light hues such as whites, pastels, and soft neutrals can create a sense of openness and airiness in a room.

  • Mirrors and glass: Reflective surfaces help create the illusion of more space and help the light bounce around the room.

  • Vertical space: Take advantage of your wall height by utilizing shelving, tall cupboards, or vertical art to help elongate the space.

A tiny bedroom doesn’t have to feel tiny. You can maximize the potential with smart furniture and layouts.

Using Vertical Storage

Place floating shelves or wall-mounted cabinets above your bed or desk. It keeps floor space free and gives the room a taller appearance.

Opt for a Platform Bed

Consider a bed with storage drawers built-in or a loft bed if you have sufficient ceiling height. It provides storage space without consuming additional space.

Keep the Palette Light

Using lighter colors on walls, bedding, and curtains can help give the small bedroom a more spacious and restful feel.

Mirrored Wardrobes

A mirrored wardrobe acts as an armoire and a space and creates the illusion of extra space.

Bedroom Design Ideas for Small Spaces
Bedroom Design Ideas for Small Spaces

3. Kitchen Design Ideas for Small Spaces

Functionality is the name of the game in a tiny kitchen. These are your design strategies for remaining efficient while also being elegant.

Use Open Shelving

Open shelves can help declutter the kitchen instead of heavy upper cabinets. Keep often-used items in attractive containers.

Pull-Out Pantry

A pull-out vertical pantry can be squeezed into narrow spaces and holds a surprising amount of food.

Under-Cabinet Lighting

Under-cabinet LED lighting is a great way to add brightness and dimension, helping the kitchen look larger and more current.

Light Reflective Materials

Incorporate glossy tiles, glass backsplashes, and stainless steel finishes to reflect light throughout the kitchen.

Kitchen Design Ideas for Small Spaces
Kitchen Design Ideas for Small Spaces

4. Bathroom Design Ideas for Small Spaces

5. Living Room Design Ideas for Small Spaces

Because bathrooms are typically small spaces in a home, smart design is key.

Wall-Mounted Fixtures

Install floating vanities and wall-hung toilets to free up floor space and make the room feel sleek and contemporary.

Sliding Doors

Replace standard swing doors with sliders or pocket doors to save space and to improve flow.

Glass Shower Partitions

A frameless glass shower enclosure gives the illusion of space and creates a feeling of luxury in the bathroom.

Recessed Storage

Toiletries are stored out of sight in recessed shelves within the wall or behind mirrors.

Large Tiles and Light Colors

Use large tiles and soft neutral colors for continuity and spaciousness.

The living room is frequently the center of the home. It should be in proportion to the space and be comfortable and functional within that space.

Modular Furniture

Opt for modular sofas or sectionals that can be repurposed when necessary, and select furniture with internal storage, if possible.

Foldable or Nesting Tables

A coffee table that can also function as extra seating or side tables that nest is a space saver space savers.

Accent Wall or Feature Art

Choose one wall for art or wallpaper to add interest while preventing the other walls from becoming visually cluttered.

Low-Profile Furniture

Low sofas and tables assist in making the room feel open and less confining.

Layered Lighting

Incorporate a blend of floor and table lamps and sconces with natural light for depth and warmth.

Bathroom Design Ideas for Small Spaces
Bathroom Design Ideas for Small Spaces
Living Room Design Ideas for Small Spaces
Living Room Design Ideas for Small Spaces

6. Smart Storage Solutions

Storage can be a particular challenge in compact homes. Employ these tricks to get the most out of what you do have:

  • Storage of seasonal clothing or bedding under the bed.

  • Custom cabinets along blank walls or in corners.

  • Hooks on the back of doors for bags, accessories or towels.

  • Benches or ottomans with storage hidden inside.

7. Decor Tips for Small Spaces

Having small spaces doesn’t mean losing your own style when it comes to decorating. So here’s smart decorating:

  • Incorporate mirrors to create the illusion of depth and reflection of light.

  • Restrict them to 2-3 colors to maintain a cohesive look.

  • Vertical pieces of artwork are best to help lead the eye.

  • Opt for small decor, such as skinny lamps, little potted plants or small, framed prints.

  • Lighten up the window treatments – sheer curtains or blinds lend an open feeling to the space.

Final Thoughts

Small spaces don’t have to trade off style or function or invitation factor for larger homes, and perhaps they do not. Ultimately, it’s about how you use your space and the furniture, colors, lighting, and storage that you select. Any small bedroom, kitchen, bathroom or living room can be turned into a beautiful and functional space with a little creativity and clever design.

Feeling lost and don’t know where to help? Let the professionals help. If you are ready to start working on your small space, contact SKF Contractor and our interior designers will help transform it into something amazing. Whether it's a small studio or a small apartment, we offer, and realize, intelligent, aesthetic and space-saving design.