Ensuring that your compact home reflects your personality, setting it apart from other houses, and simultaneously creating a restful sanctuary is a challenge. But there is a solution. With the clever use of materials, texture and colour, you can give your home a signature stamp – and make it seem larger into the bargain.

Scale and size

Decorating a compact space is all about scale and size. It’s simple, really: larger furniture leaves little room, resulting in a cramped atmosphere, while less bulky furniture feels less imposing. The current trend for Scandi-inspired pieces works in your favour, as the emphasis is on pieces with tapered arms and legs that give an impression of lightness.

Colour and shade

Lightness is a key word when it comes to selecting colours, too. The darker the fabrics and curtains in a room, the ‘closer’ it will feel. In contrast, pastel tones and light shades of grey or white appear to expand a space.

Shelves and storage

Clutter can be the undoing of a compact space, which is why storage is critical when you’re trying to optimise an apartment. Not that extra bookshelves or cupboards will help; instead, they’ll take away from the available floor space. That’s why shelves are a good bet. Floating shelves, especially, provide a space for your cherished items, like books, while also turning them into a design feature.

Style and functionality

This is the true secret of compact living: furniture that looks good while doubling up on duties is the ultimate investment. Think of ottomans that also function as end tables, or an attractive chest that offers storage space while acting as a coffee table.

Glass and mirrors

Essential materials for anyone living in a small space, glass and mirrors both open up a room; the first, because they don’t take up any visual space, and the second because they make a room look brighter while also adding depth, which creates the illusion of space. Look for glass coffee tables or statement mirrors that add a decorative touch.

Height and levels

A small garden can still be a haven. Create a relaxing space that feels bigger than it really is by experimenting with vertical planting – instead of laying out space-sucking flower beds, hang pots and accessories from the walls. You could also try establishing a green, living wall, or using fences and trellises to trail plants up walls. Alternatively, try using shelves: by placing containers at different levels, you’ll be able to use many more plants, introducing colour and texture to the garden. Once again, doubling up becomes a must: low walls will not only create a space for raised beds (bonus: they’re easier to care for), they also remove the need for a table and chairs. If, however, you’re keen on the idea of garden furniture, pick bright colours to liven up the space.

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