Setting up a 20m2 Flat
Moving into a new flat? Not very much space? No problem, here is everything you need to know to optimise your (small) space.
Tip #1: Visualise Your Aims
Before considering where to put your furniture, consider your future layout (illuminated areas, load-bearing walls): this allows you to take all the negative and positive aspects of the space into consideration, to get off to the best start possible. If you rent, and you are able to, check with the former tenants to find out how they laid out the furniture within the space, to take inspiration and decide whether you would like to do the same thing. This will allow you to have a basic idea of how to optimise the interior of your flat.
- The choice of furniture
In a small space, it is key to choose furniture of an appropriate size, so that it doesn’t dominate the room. It is also suggested to choose discreet furniture: ideally white in colour, or even transparent for low tables.
Tip #2: Increase Storage Space
The problem with an apartment that has a small surface area is that it can become untidy very quickly. Be smart and have enough storage spaces for the area.
- Storage Space in the Sleeping Area
To save space, you may decide on a bed with storage space built-in, allowing you to not have a large, overbearing wardrobe. Another solution is possible: a mezzanine bed which means you don’t lose any space at all, since you can put a sofa or desk just underneath. A correctly-optimised night table can also allow you to have more space in your small apartment.
- Storage Space in the Lounge Area
To have other “invisible” storage, you can now purchase footstools with integrated storage.
Give each piece of furniture multiple functions (a dining table could also be used as a desk to work at).
- Storage Space in the Kitchen Area
Hang as much up on the walls as possible. In your kitchen for example, you can hang up all your utensils using a board attached to the wall.
Tip #3: Define Each Space
When looking to mark out a room, it is important to preserve the passage spaces and preserve light in order to keep the space as a pleasant place to live.
- Use Furniture
In a small space, avoid having large partitions. To separate two spaces, it is possible to place a sideboard, a dresser, or even a small bookshelf.
- Use Walls
A touch of colour on a wall can isolate a space. A few quick brush strokes, and you have an office space or headboard that is less noticeable.
- Use the Floor
A rug can be used to bring some warmth to a room, and to mark the difference between the lounge and kitchen.
- Removable Partitions
There are different types of removable partitions. The main advantages are: simplicity (some partitions can be set up with hooks) and they are more cost-effective.
To set apart the kitchen space, Japanese-style panels may be a solution. Once closed, the partition allows the possibility of furniture being placed against it. Glass is often used in studios. It allows light to pass through, and keeps the space appearing more open. Light and non-imposing, the most simple partitions remain screens and curtains.
Tip #4: Be Sparing With Decoration
Consider treading lightly regarding the amount of decoration, too much decoration, or decoration that is poorly placed, can make a small space seem even smaller.
Therefore, don’t load the space up with too much decoration.
- Mirrors
Mirrors are your friends, they allow you to give the impression of having more spacious rooms, and making the rooms seem more voluminous. If you want to have more light in your primary room, you can put a mirror opposite the window in order to optimise the light source. Putting a mirror in the corridor also allows to break the sensation of the corridor being cramped. Place the mirror so that you don’t see your own reflection while entering your home.
- Curtains
Instead of opting for thick curtains, go for lighter ones that won’t darken the room too much and allow you to maintain your view to the outside.
- Walls
You can optimise walls by examining the effects of different set-ups. To make the space seem bigger, you can also use colours. For example, you can paint the end walls of a room with a darker-coloured paint and leave the longer walls white.
Tip #5: Don’t Forget Plants
Having plants in one’s interior space, small or otherwise, can be a very interesting prospect. In a 20 square metre apartment, putting a plant in the corner of your living space can give depth and make it seem like the space is larger. You can also have a mini garden in your home! Apartments can also suffer from poor lighting due to not having enough windows. It is therefore important to choose plants which can grow without an abundance of light. Here are some examples:
- The ficus is a plant which you can grow with relatively little light available.
- The sanseviera, a plant which is not well known, needs very little light to grow, and can even grow in the dark.
- The calathea is a plant that can grow anywhere. Ideal for a room with no windows.
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