7 Tips from a Designer for Creating Comfortable Housing in Just 19 Square Meters

Designer Julia Chernova shared 7 tips that helped her fit everything necessary into a limited space. All in the example of a 19-square-meter studio.

• Location: Moscow
• Area: 19 sq. m
• Rooms: 1
• Design: Julia Chernova

1. Choose a sofa-bed instead of a couch

The client needed both a full-size bed and a sofa for guests. For this, they chose a sofa-bed with storage system.

2. Keep only the essentials on the kitchen

The kitchen cabinet runs along the long wall, and the induction cooktop has only two burners, which saves a lot of space. The dishwasher is 45 cm wide, and the oven has a microwave function, so there's no need for a separate microwave.

3. Use unusual storage zones for items

The wardrobe was built into the kitchen cabinet — it not only didn't take up extra space but also remained unnoticed.

4. Choose foldable dining tables

The dining table in the form of a console was custom-made. Thanks to its removable mechanism, it can be fixed on the windowsill and moved along the rail.

5. Use niches for storage to the fullest

The built-in closet for suitcases, sports equipment, and other bulky items is located in the bathroom with access from the hallway. To avoid dividing the space, the door to the bathroom and the closet were painted in a matching color.

6. Try functional shelving systems

The shelving wall with a hanger is a single unit. Rows of elements can be detached, and clothes, bags, scarves, and even a bicycle can be hung on them. When there's nothing to hang, the hooks fold away easily.

7. Use hidden storage wherever possible

The washing machine is placed in a cabinet under the sink. The space above it and behind the toilet is disguised with a storage furniture system. Access to plumbing is provided above the toilet.