How to Make Your Cramped City Apartment Feel Much Bigger

Living in a city often means trading in sprawling square footage for a prime location. While a smaller space can be cozy, it can also feel cramped if it’s not properly organized.

Luckily for you city dwellers, there are many different ways to make your tiny apartment feel much bigger, using smart design techniques and a little creativity. 

Whether you’re a long-time city dweller or new to urban living, here are some tips to help you maximize your space and transform your apartment into a spacious sanctuary.

Embrace Minimalism

The first step to making a small apartment feel larger is to declutter.

Adopting a minimalist lifestyle doesn’t mean you have to give up all your possessions, but it does require a mindful approach to what you bring into your home. 

Evaluate each item you own for its usefulness and aesthetic value. If you feel like the item doesn’t serve a purpose or bring you joy anymore, it’s time to let it go.

Use Multi-functional Furniture

In a small space, every piece of furniture should earn its keep. Look for multi-functional pieces that serve more than one purpose. For example, a sofa bed can transform your living room into a guest bedroom.

An ottoman with storage inside can serve as a seat and a place to stash blankets or magazines.

Nesting tables are another great option, as they offer additional surface areas when needed, but you can tuck them away to save space.

Try Vertical Space

Tall bookshelves, wall-mounted cabinets, and hanging plants will draw the eye upward and make the room feel larger.

You can install shelves above doorways or around the perimeter of a room, providing storage without overwhelming the living space.

Even your walls can serve as storage with the addition of hooks and pegboards.

Light and Mirrors

Light is a powerful tool in making a small space feel bigger. Maximize natural light by keeping windows unobstructed. Use sheer curtains that let in light while still providing privacy.

Additionally, strategically placed mirrors can reflect light and create the illusion of more space. A large mirror on one wall or mirrored furniture can make a dramatic difference.

Color and Decor Choices

Neutral colors open up a space, making it feel airy and bright. While dark colors can make a room feel cozy, they can also make it smaller.

If you love bold colors, consider using them as accents rather than the main palette. Additionally, keeping the decor simple will prevent the room from feeling chaotic and crowded.

Smart Storage Solutions

Hidden storage is a lifesaver in small apartments. Beds with drawers underneath, built-in wardrobes, and benches with hidden compartments can help keep clutter at bay.

Use organizers inside cabinets and closets to maximize every inch of space. Clear storage boxes are a great way to see what you have without rummaging through piles. You can easily tuck these under your bed or in a closet.

Keep It Open

Whenever possible, maintain an open layout. Avoid bulky furniture that divides the space into smaller sections.

Instead, choose pieces that are low-profile or have open bases, which allow for an uninterrupted view of the floor, giving the illusion of more space.

If you live in a studio apartment, consider using a bookcase or a screen as a room divider.

When It’s Time to Move

Despite your best efforts, sometimes a small apartment just isn’t enough. If you’re feeling cramped and ready for a change, moving to a larger space might be the answer.

However, in many city environments, upgrading to a bigger apartment can be costly. This is where living with roommates can offer a practical solution.

By sharing an apartment with others, you can afford a larger living space without breaking the bank.

Splitting the rent and utilities can make a more spacious apartment within reach, giving you the breathing room you need.

Additionally, having roommates is a great way to boost your social life and truly embrace city living, making it a more enjoyable experience overall.

Where to Find Roommates

If the idea of living with roommates appeals to you, SpareRoom is a fantastic resource for finding compatible housemates.

SpareRoom is an online roommate-matching website that makes it easy to find people looking for shared housing.

Whether you’re new to the city or simply in need of a change, SpareRoom can help you connect with others to find a larger apartment together.

Using SpareRoom is simple. You can create a profile outlining your living preferences, budget, and lifestyle. The platform allows you to search for available rooms and connect with potential roommates.

This approach ensures that you find housemates who match your living habits and preferences, leading to a peaceful and happy shared living arrangement. 

Whether you’re looking for roommates in the heart of NYC or the middle of Austin, try SpareRoom today.

Final Thoughts

Living in a small city apartment doesn’t mean you have to feel cramped. By taking on a minimalist approach and using multi-functional furniture, you can make your apartment feel much bigger.

Light, color, and storage also play crucial roles in creating more space. But if you find that you need more space, consider moving in with roommates to afford a larger apartment.

With these tips, your small apartment can become a stylish and spacious home, perfect for enjoying all that city life has to offer.