[AD] When you’re working with small spaces, every design decision counts and each inch should be deliberate – even if it’s left open. That task might seem daunting, but as long as you design with your space in mind, and not what might work in something larger, you’ll be able to create a gorgeous apartment. Utilizing the best aspects of modern style is a fantastic place to start, as clean lines and functionality are excellent ways to open up even the smallest of spaces.
Use Color to Your Advantage
Color palettes are the backbone of every design philosophy. For modern interiors, it’s more about choosing a color you’re willing to stick with in many places. Modern design isn’t a color riot, but it leans on the idea of a monochromatic home instead. That theoretically gives you a lot of wiggle room for your base color, but most modern interiors stick with neutrals. Since we’re talking about small apartments in particular, keep in mind that light colors and pastels tend to open things up and make any room appear larger.
We’re not just planning about interior paint colors, though. In modern design, you’ll see that same base color (or something very similar) repeated in other places. While you’re scouting out the best furniture deals, keep your eye out for pieces that include your chosen color. It’ll tie everything together and make your design appear cohesive. That goes a long way toward curating the look of your apartment.
Keep it Clean
Clean lines and sleek design are both hallmarks of modern style, and they’re especially important in small spaces. If you crowd in too many items, your small apartment starts to look crowded (or even cluttered) very quickly. Modern design isn’t minimalism, but some of the same elements still apply.
Before you bring something into your apartment, ask yourself what purpose it serves. What is its function going to be once you get it inside? The answer is obvious for things like a couch, an end table, and so on, but it gets a little more complicated when you’re talking about decor or artwork. Do you need another potted plant? Maybe the window by the kitchen needs an accent, so grabbing a ficus is a great choice. But if you’re going to have to make extra room or push it in somewhere that’s already filled, take some time to rethink it.
Utilize the Extra Space
Having extra space in a small apartment might sound impossible, but modern design can create space for you. A lot of the furniture is raised off the ground and won’t sit flush against your floor, which means you may have enough room to tuck something beneath your couch, your bed frame, or elsewhere. You don’t have to cram those areas with items, but they give you a wonderful solution to store things like shoes, out-of-season clothes, and similar items.
Clever storage solutions are always necessary when you’re running low on room. Instead of squeezing in a dresser or another piece of furniture, find ways to use what’s already there. If your modern aesthetic leaves room beneath your bed to store your winter coats, that’s a win.
Don’t Waste Your Light
Depending on the layout of your apartment, you may not have an abundance of light coming in. Modern design thrives on natural light, though, so you’ll want to utilize it to the best of your ability. That means avoiding heavy curtains or placing too many objects in front of your windows. The more you obscure the light coming in, the more dark and crowded your apartment feels as a result.
If you’re living in a more interior apartment and want to replicate the look of natural light but don’t have a ton of it accessible, you still have options. Mirrors are a clever way to make rooms seem brighter. Hang a mirror facing a window and you’ll double its effect, so it feels like you have more light without knocking an extra hole in the wall.
Alternately, certain types of bulbs and light fixtures do a commendable job of simulating natural light. Some LED lights are designed to simulate the appearance of sunlight, and full-spectrum lamps and bulbs give the appearance of the midday sun. If you’re a renter, it may not be possible to change your fixtures, but you can bring in the right lamp or even swap out bulbs during your time in the apartment.
Stick With Natural Materials
While you’ll certainly find some manufactured materials in modern design, a lot of it is built on the idea of using natural materials. In small spaces, take that a step further and opt for light natural materials like jute, rattan, wood or bamboo.
Wood is natural, but an abundance of dark wood leaves a room feeling…well, dark. You’ll lose that airy feeling that opens up your space, and there are many other options out there that help maintain it instead!
Final Thoughts
Bringing modern design into a small NYC apartment isn’t just possible – it’s ideal. Modern design provides all the means to make even a tiny apartment feel roomier. From a light color palette to clever lighting tricks, you’ll have all the tools you need to create some extra breathing room. Spoken helps you along the way and makes shopping for your perfect modern furniture and decor a cinch. Just put the items you love into Spoken’s price comparison tool and rest assured you’ll get them at the best price possible.
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