Small Apartment and Storage Problems? Here's What You Need to Do

In a small apartment, every centimeter of space is worth its weight in gold, so it's important to plan a storage system that is not only practical but also aesthetic. In this article, we will look at ideas for organizing storage effectively so that your apartment remains spacious and cozy.

Main points from the article:

• Use vertical space: shelves up to the ceiling, hanging systems.

• Multi-functional furniture with storage space — the best friend in small apartments.

• Hidden storage systems can be organized under the bed and in corners.

Vertical Space: Use Walls

One of the simplest and most effective solutions for a small apartment is to use walls and vertical space. Shelves up to the ceiling, storage hanging systems, and hooks help to place items without cluttering the floor.

1. Shelves and Cabinets. In small apartments, it's important to make use of height. Wall-to-ceiling shelves or shelves above doorways or work zones can be an excellent solution for storing books, boxes, and accessories.

2. Wall-mounted Storage Systems. Open shelves or wall modules can help organize kitchen utensils or living room accessories. If you have limited space on the kitchen counter, use hooks and rails for pots and utensils.
   
   Example: Use a vertical bookshelf for books, boxes, and decorative elements in the living room, leaving the lower part of the room free.

Design: ZI-DESIGN

Multi-functional Furniture: Saving Space

In small apartments, every piece of furniture should perform more than one function. Multi-functional furniture helps save space and organize additional storage.

1. Beds with Storage Boxes. Such beds are an excellent solution for storing bedding, clothes, or seasonal items. The space under the bed can be used as efficiently as possible by hiding everything that is rarely used.

2. Sofas with Storage Space. Modern sofa models often include storage boxes under the seat. This is an ideal solution for storing items that are not always within reach but take up a lot of space.

Example: Install a sofa-bed with storage in the living room — this saves space and allows you to store bedding.

Design: LVM BURO

Storage Under the Bed and in Other Hidden Places

Hidden storage systems are one of the most effective ways to organize items in a small apartment without cluttering the space.

1. Space Under the Bed. If your bed does not have built-in drawers, use baskets or rolling boxes. This allows you to store items compactly and easily retrieve them.

2. Using Corners. Corners are often left empty, but they are a great place for corner shelves or wall-mounted shelves. This approach allows you to create additional storage space without cluttering the central area of the apartment.

Example: Store seasonal items under the bed in plastic containers on wheels, and place a corner cabinet in the bedroom for small items and accessories.

Design: Lena Kharlava

Optimizing Storage in the Entrance and Kitchen

The entrance and kitchen are the zones that need proper spatial organization. On the kitchen, it's important to have access to all items, and in the entrance, items should be stored compactly, especially in small corridors.

1. Entrance. Use vertical hanging systems and hooks, install a small console or shoe bench. For storing small items, baskets or textile boxes that can be placed on shelves will work.

2. Kitchen. Use rails, hanging shelves, and organizer systems for cabinets. The space on the cabinet door can be used to mount hooks or mini-organizers for lids and spatulas.

Example: Install wall-mounted hooks in the entrance for coats and a hat shelf, and hang a shelf for spices and utensils on a rail in the kitchen.

Design: Olga Pisarikova

How to Avoid Clutter: Tips on Minimalism

One of the most effective ways to maintain order is minimalism. In a small apartment, it's important to periodically get rid of unnecessary items and choose multi-functional objects.

1. Reviewing Items. Regularly review your wardrobe, kitchen, and other zones. Get rid of what you don't use. This will help free up space for items that are truly needed.

2. Minimal Decor. It's important not to overload the space with unnecessary items. Leave only the most beloved items that truly bring joy.

Organizing functional storage in a small apartment is more of a planning issue than a financial one. Wall-to-ceiling shelves, multi-functional furniture, and proper use of corners will help you make the most efficient use of space, creating a cozy and comfortable atmosphere.

Design: Lili Kaisarova

Cover: Design Project by Julia Filimonova