01: Plan
This is the most important step in your set-up journey! Envision how you want to live in your space and begin to map out the various rooms with furniture and key accessories. Take stock of any items you already have for your new space and compile measurements. Understand the room dimensions to ensure that your furniture will fit correctly. Be sure to measure everything: length, width, and height of every element (like your windows or built-in cabinets). These elements have a lot of influence on your choices of furniture and their placement.
02: Declutter
This is good practice for any space, but particularly key when your space is small! Consider using only those elements that enhance your living enjoyment and do not distract. Determine what to hide and what to display. If there is something you can live without, dispose of it (or give it away). Avoid clutter to minimize stress and make your place seem more organized and serene.
03: Divide and Conquer
Use subtle visual elements to denote and enhance each area. An area rug, for instance, can demark the living room without the hindrance of walls. When you divide your room into zones, it is always helpful to size according to your personal needs. Give each room a focal point to draw your eye to and create a grounding point for the rest of the room. A special painting or unique sculpture piece work well to create interest. Be sure to use the space up to the ceiling whenever possible, as this will maximize your usable space.
04: Visual Continuity
Choosing elements from the same colour palette for your walls and furnishings provides unity and flow, which helps fool your eye into thinking a room is more spacious. Select larger accessories and fewer of them, instead of many small accessories that can clutter a space. Also consider items with smoother lines and simple shapes to help refine the space.
05: Multifunctional
Make this your furniture purchasing mantra! Look for multiple uses in everything you buy: an ottoman that has hidden storage and can double as an extra seat, or a loveseat that pulls out into a guest bed, for example. You can use this approach to make a big impact in a small space.
05: Storage
You can never have too much storage! Consider choosing furniture pieces that can double as storage, for example, purchasing a bed that has drawers below can double your bedroom storage capacity. Tall shelves that have a small footprint utilize the available vertical space, but take up little precious floor space. Bring in baskets to help organize your items within shelving units and wardrobes.
