Space Saving Furniture

My apartment is 600 sq. ft. and limits my ability to do a lot of things. We determined what activities we do the most and then set up our apartment to match. For us sitting down at a table for dinner wasn't a common occurrence so we opted out of having a table. That being said, we like to host the occasional casual get together so it was important that there was a lot of comfy seating. We also need a lot of additional storage because what we have just doesn't cut it.

The important thing to remember is, when buying furniture find items that serve two purposes and plan before you buy.



Need a desk to do work and a table for occasional dinner parties - opt for a farm table. It will provide you with lots of space to work but can be easily cleared off to serve dinner.





Have a studio apartment that lacks storage and privacy - throw in a book case. A ceiling to floor bookshelf or other unit will give you the extra space to put things as well as create a divider from your bedroom to your living space.

If there is a back to the shelf and it is ugly - cover it with fabric, paint or mactac and add a mirror or painting to turn it into a focal point. Or you can add hooks - see photo.




Extra sleeping space - pull out couches and futons have really changed and there are numerous attractive and unique options. You are no longer limited to the giant floral print couch in your grandmas basement that smells like pepperoni.

I am sure that this couch, which converts into bunk beds, is outrageously expensive but it is very cool.





Require a lot of seating but don't need it all the time - look for items that convert into seating or can also be used for something else. Try coffee table with tuck in seating, a storage bench or cube, or even a stool that can be used as a side table during it's days off.






Can't fit a dresser and a queen/king sized bed in the bedroom - look for a bed that has drawers or storage compartments underneath.





Murphy Everything - okay so maybe not everything, but if you have the ability to attach fixtures to the wall (my lease doesn't allow it) you can have more than just a murphy bed. You can have a fold down table with chairs, ironing board, desk and seating. If your TV is wall mounted, you can fold everything up and use you living space as a giant playing field. Hockey anyone?

 

Need more places to store your stuff - The obvious solution is shelving or cabinets but you can find all sorts of furniture with hidden compartment to store stuff - couches, tables, beds!