10 Ways to Maximize Your Small Space

Check out these secrets from decorating experts for designing small spaces.

By Anne Krueger
"The dimensions define the size of a space, not the style." That's an oh-so-true quote from designer and actress Libby Langdon, a small-space consultant on HGTV's Small Space, Big Style. Langdon has seen hundreds of pint-size living quarters with plenty of pizzazz. Savvy small-space dwellers have lots of tricks for maximizing their square footage. Here are 10 to get you started.
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Elizabeth Blitzer created a focal-point gallery wall in her 625-square-foot New York condo.

1. Get focused

Creating focal points in your small space can make it seem more interesting and spacious. Paint one wall a darker color, create a pool of light with a low-hanging light fixture or assemble artwork on one wall to create an uncluttered gallery effect.

2. Reflect on it

Furnishings that reflect — mirrors, mirrored panels, furniture and metallic pieces — add more than just a satisfying shimmer. Strategically placed, they can enhance the feeling of light and space. "A mirror can reflect a great view out a window or a doorway," says Langdon.

Consider all the different spaces that a mirror might work: in a foyer or hallway; at the back of shelving; or in interesting configurations, like side by side or four or more grouped together to create one large, reflective focal point. "I love using mirrors! It doesn't necessarily mean you are narcissistic, it just means you have figured out the best way to make a small space seem more spacious and grand," says designer Ron Marvin, another small-space expert from Small Space, Big Style.

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Designer Grace Seilaff used a beautiful, colorful screen to divide the space in this room.

3. Define and divide your space

When you live in one room you have to get very creative. Apartment dwellers create space by painting different areas of the same room different colors; by installing louvered doors or screens; or by hanging curtains. All of these solutions deliver a little much-needed privacy.

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Zachary Sosne has clutter-free down to a science in his 16' by 18' space, particularly in the pint-size kitchen.

4. Kitchen hang-ups

Many small apartments have equally small kitchens, hence the name "galley" kitchen — it’s about the size of a small boat galley. To maximize space and still have the necessary cooking implements, hang everything. Use pot racks and shelving to stack and store.

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From Pez dispensers to lunchboxes, budget decorator Jeanie Engelbach has found creative solutions for all of her collections in her Greenwich Village apartment.

5. It's OK to display

Like to collect, but don't like clutter? Jeanie Engelbach, who has taught budget decorating tricks to New Yorkers and whose colorful apartment has been featured on HGTV's Small Space, Big Style, has a solution for that: She stacks her colorful lunchbox collection on floating shelves where they add color and style without creating a mess.