Making the most of your square meters

A compact home can feel just as comfortable as a large one, as long as every square meter works for you. Whether you live in a studio or a one-bedroom apartment, a few smart choices can make your space feel bigger. Here are our tips for getting the most out of small space living.

1. Choose furniture that does double duty

In a small home, every piece of furniture should earn its place. Multifunctional furniture lets you do more with less, without filling your floor space. Think of a bed with storage drawers underneath, a sofa bed for guests, or an extendable dining table that doubles as a desk during the day. Some other ideas to consider:

• Benches with hidden storage inside
• A coffee table with shelves or a lift-up top
• Foldable chairs that you can hang on the wall when you don't need them
• Nesting tables that slide neatly into each other

Before buying anything new, measure your space carefully. A piece that looks compact in the store can quickly take over a room at home.

2. Think vertical

When floor space is limited, look up. Your walls offer a surprising amount of extra storage and display space. Tall bookcases and open shelving units draw the eye upward, which also makes the ceiling feel higher.

The best part? You don’t need a drill to make it work. Freestanding and ladder shelves fit neatly against the wall, and over-the-door organizers are perfect for shoes, bags, or bathroom essentials. For lighter items like keys, towels, small baskets, or artwork, adhesive hooks and strips are a great solution. They hold well and come off easily without damaging the walls when you move out.

Finally, consider a tall, narrow cabinet instead of a wide one. Every item you lift off the floor makes your home feel more open.

3. Make smart use of hidden spaces

Small homes are full of spaces that often go unused. The area under your bed is perfect for storage boxes with seasonal clothes, extra bedding, or shoes. Choose boxes with lids or wheels so they're easy to reach and keep the dust out.

Other hidden spots worth using are the inside of cabinet doors, the space above your wardrobe, and the gaps between appliances in the kitchen. Slim rolling carts fit perfectly into narrow spaces and are ideal for cleaning products, spices, or bathroom essentials.

In this apartment, a ladder gives you access to the otherwise unused space above the bathroom. Perfect for suitcases, seasonal clothes, or anything you don’t need every day.

4. Let mirrors and light do the work

Light is one of the most effective tools for making a room feel bigger. Keep your windows as clear as possible and choose light, airy curtains that let daylight in. Place a large mirror opposite or next to a window to reflect natural light and create a sense of depth.

In the evening, use several light sources instead of just one ceiling light. A floor lamp in the corner, a small lamp on your desk, and some warm string lights create different layers of light. This makes your home feel cozy and helps define different areas within one room.

5. Keep your color palette light and calm

Light colors such as white, beige, soft gray, and pastel tones reflect light and make walls seem further away. A calm color palette also creates a sense of rest, which is especially welcome when you've got a studio where you live, work, and sleep in the same room.

That doesn't mean your home has to be boring. Add personality with colorful cushions, artwork, plants, or a patterned throw. These details are easy to change whenever you feel like a new look, without making the space feel crowded.

6. Create zones within one room

In a studio, your living room, bedroom, and workspace share the same space. Creating clear zones helps you switch between activities and makes your home feel more structured. A few simple ways to define zones:

• Use a rug to mark your living area
• Place an open bookcase as a room divider, so light can still pass through
• Hang a curtain to separate your sleeping area
• Give each zone its own lamp

Having a dedicated spot for work is especially helpful if you study or work from home. Even a small desk in a corner helps you focus during the day and switch off in the evening.

In this studio, a cabinet separates the sleeping area from the living space. It creates a cozy, private corner for sleeping while also adding extra storage.

7. Less is more: declutter regularly

Even the smartest storage solutions can't beat having fewer things. Small homes fill up quickly, so try to declutter regularly. A good rule of thumb: if you haven't used something in a year, it's probably time to let it go.

Try the "one in, one out" approach. Every time you buy something new, donate, sell, or recycle something you no longer need. In the Netherlands, there are plenty of thrift stores and online marketplaces where your items can find a new home. Thrift stores (called kringloopwinkels) such as Het Goed, Rataplan, and Emmaus can be found in most cities. Online, Marktplaats is the go-to platform for selling furniture and household items, while Vinted is popular for clothes. Facebook Marketplace is another easy option.

Small space tips for the kitchen and bathroom
Compact kitchens and bathrooms need a little extra creativity. In the kitchen, magnetic strips for knives, hooks for pans, and stackable containers help keep your countertop clear. A clear countertop instantly makes the space look bigger and makes cooking more enjoyable.

In the bathroom, an over-the-toilet shelf, a shower caddy, and baskets on open shelves keep your essentials organized. Choose matching containers or baskets for a calm, uniform look.

Styling on a budget
Making the most of your space doesn't have to be expensive. Stores like IKEA, HEMA and Action offer affordable storage boxes, shelving and decor, and second-hand shops and online marketplaces are full of hidden gems. Start with the basics you really need, and add personal touches over time. A home that grows with you often feels more personal than one that's furnished all at once.

Make your home work for you
A small home is not a limitation. It's an opportunity to be creative! With smart furniture, clever storage, and a bit of light and color, your studio or apartment can feel spacious, organized, and completely your own.

Looking for a compact home in a great location? Discover our residences here and find the place that fits your lifestyle!