11 ways to totally transform a tiny space

From organisation solutions to clever decorating tricks, if you're short on space take a look at these stylish ideas.

Not every home is blessed with a vast open-plan space but, if your room is on the small side, there's plenty to feel positive about. We've got a wealth of ideas to help you get the very best out of your space.

1. Utilise storage space

No space to swing a cat? Don't fret! To avoid cluttering the
worktops, plenty of cupboards, cubbyholes and drawers have been built
into this U-shaped kitchen
design. Keep materials simple. We would recommend a maximum of three
finishes in a small kitchen, which allows you to zone areas, create
features and let other sections blend into the background.

white wooden kitchen cabinet with sink

(Image credit: TBC)

2. Under the eaves

Save space by choosing smart storage solutions, such as
under-the-bed boxes or built in shelving units. If you are renovating an
attic, slot the bed under the sloping roof to make room for more
furniture. Create depth with textured soft furnishings, warm colours and
personal touches to give the room a homely touch.

white and black bed linen

(Image credit: TBC)

3. Zone off a corner

More and more people are working from home these days, but
that doesn't mean you should clutter your dining room table with
invoices. Creating a work area in a corner of your living or bedroom is a
great way to make the most of other under-used space. Choose your favourite wallpaper to create a distinctive zone, and
add a personal touch with artwork, flowers and anything else you may
need to spark your creativity.

green and gray chair beside white wooden desk

(Image credit: TBC)

4. Use small-sized prints

Have fun with mixing up classic pattern, such as florals and
stripes. Just be sure to choose fabrics and papers in co-ordinating
colours to keep the look cohesive, and stick to small-sized prints so
the space is not overwhelmed by pattern. A two-seater sofa with low arms
is a trim option for a compact living room. Choose seating with legs so more of the floor can be seen - this will make the room appear bigger.

blue and white throw pillows on gray sofa

(Image credit: TBC)

5. Hang it high

Limited floor space in the hallway
means having to use your imagination when thinking about storage.
Floating fittings visually max the space, as more of the floor can be
seen, and make cleaning a breeze. A selection of wicker baskets and
wooden storage is a smart alternative to a cupboard or a chest of
drawers and makes a great place to store smaller items that you'd
otherwise be rushing around to find in the morning.

red leather handbag hanged on white metal rack

(Image credit: TBC)

6. Make a lasting impression

Even a bijou bathroom
can offer a spa style experience. If you're in a quandary over how to
decorate your small space, just keep it simple with soft, natural
shades. Choose furniture and accessories with clean lines and keep
surfaces as clutter-free as possible to create a feeling of space.

white ceramic sink beside bathtub

(Image credit: TBC)

7. Think about mirrors

Even a small space can be made to feel larger with the use of mirrors. Not only do they reflect light around the room, but if you place a mirror on the opposite wall to a window, it will double the feeling of space.

white sofa near green potted plant

(Image credit: Future PLC/Mark Luscombe-Whyte)

8. Choose compact creations

Just because you have a small space doesn't mean you can't go for statement furniture. Here, a tiny slipper bath fits into this bathroom alcove perfectly. Although it may be costly, it's worth thinking about having bespoke items made to fit into your compact space - it'll mean you won't have to compromise on style!

white ceramic bathtub near brown wooden framed mirror

(Image credit: TBC)

9. Bring your shelving to life

Utilise your wall space with different shelving options. Here, floating shelves have been fitted into the area around the chimney breast - maximising space in this compact living room. Paint the wall behind your shelves in a vibrant shade. It'll add plenty of personality and liven up a simple storage area.

living area with book shelves

(Image credit: TBC)

10. Divide it up

Use a screen to create privacy and divide up the space in your room. This works particularly well in a studio apartment where you can separate off the living room 'area' from the bedroom 'area'. Alternatively, place in a corner of your bedroom to create a dedicated dressing area.

living area with colourful curtain

(Image credit: Future PLC/Paul Raeside)

11. Go for clever storage

Think outside the box when it comes to storage. Here, a partition wall has been added to create a large closet area complete with shelving, shoe racks and drawers - making best use of every inch of space.

A bedroom with a cabinet with open shelves

(Image credit: TBC)

Now you know any small space can be transformed with a little imagination, it's time to tackle it in your home.

Contributor

Tamara was Ideal Home's Digital Editor before joining the Woman & Home team in 2022. She has spent the last 15 years working with the style teams at Country Homes & Interiors and Ideal Home, both now at Future PLC. It’s with these award wining interiors teams that she's honed her skills and passion for shopping, styling and writing. Tamara is always ahead of the curve when it comes to interiors trends – and is great at seeking out designer dupes on the high street.