How to Decorate a Small Apartment: 10 Tips from a French Decorator

Known French decorator Jean-Louis Dénio has been making residential and commercial spaces suitable for use for many years. In his own apartment, he managed not only to move walls but also to raise low ceilings. Now a 120 square meter space accommodates several small, yet stylish and cozy rooms. Here are a few secrets of decorating small spaces from a professional.

Jean-Louis Dénio, Decorator

Experiments with Wall Finishing

Jean-Louis is convinced that it's not necessary to stick to a single style when finishing walls. Moreover, this won't help in a small room. Instead, it's better to cover two walls with wallpaper featuring a bright pattern and the remaining ones with neutral paint.

Less White

Although white is considered universal, it's not the best choice for small apartments. White shades reflect light too much, wash out interior design and hide the volume of the space.

The Magic of Mirrors

Mirrors can transform even the tiniest room, so limiting yourself to just one accessory isn't a good idea. You can also select beautiful mirror furniture.

Plenty of Light

To visually expand square meters, you need at least eight light sources. You can spotlight paintings, furniture, and floors. The power of bulbs should not exceed 15 Watts.

It's better not to hang a chandelier on the ceiling, as it only worsens the feeling of cramped space. Lighting should be arranged within floor level.

Working with Textures

The leading role in interior design is played by interesting finishing. There's no need to fear mixing glossy and matte materials, as unexpected texture combinations can beautify a small apartment.

No Patterns

Patterns and graphic designs serve their purpose in spacious rooms, but in small ones they look absurd and comical.

Window Treatments Longer Than the Window Opening

If the apartment has small windows, the window treatment should be installed along the wall and under the ceiling. This creates an effect of panoramic windows. Visually, a small room will seem wider and more aesthetic.

A Large Rug

It's better to choose a bigger rug to create the feeling of spaciousness. Small models contribute to forming an unattractive frame on the floor, which fragments the space.

Act Vertically

You need to use the apartment area as much as possible in a vertical direction. For example, on the kitchen, install a cabinet that reaches up to the ceiling. There should be no free space anywhere, but overloading the room is also not recommended. It's better to plan an optimal number of storage compartments.