Small spaces are an everyday trend nowadays. You may have seen a show such as Tiny House Hunters or maybe your friends are moving into small apartments too. Regardless of how you came upon this trend of living, it has become a big deal, especially over the last few years. The traditional idea of owning a big home with your family has lessened. In addition, land is not infinite, so new structures are being built “up” in various cities, with mini-apartments of only a few hundred square feet. Leasing companies know the latest trends and are willing to cooperate on space so that their clients are happy with size and location. According to Ryan Severino, a senior economist at a New York based research firm, “Millennials (typically younger than 30) are drawn to cities where they can both work and socialize.” In essence, people are willing to give up extra square feet for prime locations instead. For example, one would rather have a smaller apartment so that he or she can be close to the social aspects of the city they are living in. This style of living is not uncommon, especially in Europe and Tokyo, and older U.S. cities such as New York City and Philadelphia, where apartments have been small for years.
Nielsen, an American consumer research company, found that 40% of Americans between the ages of 18 and 36 want to live in urban areas instead of the suburbs their parents idealized for them. This is the case because many of these Americans feel like they do not earn enough to go after the lifestyle their parents believed they would attain for. This isn’t to say that Millennials are going to live in small spaces forever, but it does bring up a valid point. Census Bureau also provided this statistic: “66% of households in 2012 were family households, down from 81% in 1970.” This number certainly has continued to decline as most apartment types are either studio style or one bedroom. People are learning to live more on their own, in hopes of saving money on rent and living in cities where they can both work and socialize freely.
Small spaces literally embrace less square feet, which means every square foot must be used wisely. Any idea of saving space is not taken lightly. Of course having a smaller area to live in does not mean that you can have the luxury of owning many pieces. There are certain types of furniture/decor that are a satisfying fit for this lifestyle.
- Accessories
Wall mirrors can make a room seem bigger and brighter, so with the lack of space, this simple accent to a room can make a significant difference. You want your small space to feel open and radiant, so you are never overcome with the fear of your place feeling too crowded for your basic needs.
In addition, area rugs can provide separation for different areas in your small space. This is an easy fix for you if you want to make a distinction between your dining area and living area.
- Round Dining Table
Round dining tables can save you space in a simple setting. Some of these tables may even include a leaf so that you can fold down or tuck the table away when it is not in use. This piece of furniture makes a great addition to your small space, with its functional use as a dining setting, but at the same time, it does not make your space feel cramped for you or your guests.
- Benches
Benches can provide a great living area for you or your guests, as well as an area for dining. This piece of furniture is always useful because it can be pushed up against any wall, providing extra seating as well as not taking up a lot of valuable space.
- Wall Units and TV Stands/Chests
In a small studio or one bedroom apartment, walls are also embraced because they offer an aspect of extra room too. Essentially, wall units provide a place for entertainment, as well as drawers and hidden storage. TV stands or TV chests can serve the same purpose too, but on a smaller scale if you plan to use storage in other facets of your living area.
- Bookshelves and Cubbies
Bookshelves can create another addition to any wall in your small space. The multiple shelves provide storage that can be organized in a neat way. You can also use a bookshelf as a room divider if you are living in a studio setting. If you prefer storage that can cover your “hidden mess”, then cubbies may be a superior option. Cubbies are shaped like small boxes, so you can organize them by categories and hide them away in shelves or leave them out for your convenience.
- Sleepers and Ottomans
Sleepers are a versatile addition to a small apartment or studio, as they are a type of multipurpose furniture. They pose as a sectional sofa and a bed is hidden inside. In addition, many sleepers have hidden storage which is a big plus when it comes to limited space. It can be the main sleeping area of your apartment or it can be used when guests arrive.
On the other hand, ottomans are always a simple addition to any living area. There are even some ottomans that contain a small twin bed inside. This clever use of an ottoman saves you space for when guests visit. Additionally, this type of ottoman can be used as a coffee table with a breakfast tray or as a footrest when the bed is not visible.
- Beds
When space is limited, any added storage is a wonderful addition. Purchasing a bed is a great idea if you have one or two sleeping areas in mind. In essence, there are beds that have storage included. These options are a few drawers or nightstands that are attached to the bed itself. Both of these selections are useful, but it depends on the amount of space you have to work with.
Overall, small spaces, such as studios and one bedroom apartments, must embrace every square foot possible. With the types of furniture mentioned above, you can certainly choose which pieces fit your needs and space. In essence, millennials’ need to live in urban areas, where they can both work and socialize, is a trend that seems like it is here to stay.
Check out a previous video of ours, where we show you how to enhance your storage in a small space.
Click here to check out the merchandise shown above and other suggestions we have for small spaces.
Hello i just heard the radio ad that you’re looking to help families whom recently moved and lack furnishing. I have a two year son and honestly cpuld afford mattress for the two bedroom condo. Just left shelters or living on friend’s couch i am unemployed and lack the basics.
Hello. We will forward your information to the corresponding department and they can contact you with any questions you may have.