Big City Living, Small Space Style
- Jul 15
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 10
Living small doesn’t mean living dull. Whether you're renting a studio or just like things cosy, small spaces can be full of personality, function and ✨serious mood✨. With the right tips, lighting, and layout magic, even your tiniest flat can feel like a vibe-heavy sanctuary.
📏 Less Space, More Style
Big cities like London and New York might be known for their towering skylines and bustling streets, but when it comes to living spaces? Things get a lot cosier. Homes are often small in size but big on style and smart design.
You might not have a sweeping staircase or marble kitchen island, but small spaces force you to be intentional. That means every corner, shelf, and cushion matters. That's where the style lives.
Dezeen often showcases how smaller living spaces are being reimagined with smart, stylish design solutions to suit modern lifestyles.
🔑 Tiny Space, Big Style – Tips That Actually Work
🪟 1. Let the Light In
Natural light instantly opens up a room. Keep window treatments sheer, or go without. If your space is naturally dark, add mirrors to bounce light around.
🪑 2. Furniture That Multitasks
Look for pieces that serve more than one purpose:
Ottomans with storage
Sofas that become guest beds
Foldable tables or wall-mounted desks
🎨 3. Keep It Cohesive
A simple colour palette makes a small space feel more put-together and less chaotic.
Go for neutrals with texture (think linen, boucle, wood)
Or commit to a bold tone, like terracotta or sage, and stick to it
🧘🏽♂️ 4. Define Zones, Even in One Room
Use rugs, shelving units, or even curtain dividers to give the illusion of "rooms" inside a studio.
A small jute rug can define your living area
A curtain around your bed = instant privacy cocoon
📚 5. Shelves Are Your Best Friend
When floor space is limited, go vertical.
Floating shelves above doors
Picture ledges for art
Hanging planters instead of side tables
🪞 6. Don’t Skip Personality
Small doesn’t mean boring. Layer in:
Framed film posters or photos you love
A statement lamp
A bold throw blanket or patterned cushion
🧼 The Vibe Is in the Details
You don’t need a full renovation to feel good in your space. Light a candle, put on your favourite playlist, and let your place feel like your film set.
🛍️ A Few Small-Space Style Faves:
Made.com – Known for sleek, compact furniture with bold personality. Great for multifunctional pieces like ottoman beds and modular sofas.
IKEA – The OG of small-space living. From extendable tables to under-bed storage, their range is made with tight square footage in mind.
Swoon – Think chic and compact. Swoon’s pieces are designed to bring style into small rooms without overwhelming them.
Habitat (via Argos) – Affordable, trendy, and urban-friendly. Their nesting tables, slim sofas, and clever storage.
John Lewis & Partners – They offer a dedicated “small space living” section, with fold-out desks, compact dining sets, and more.
Heals – Higher-end but beautifully crafted. Heals curates timeless, multifunctional designs that work well in cosy, curated homes.
✨ Remember
Big vibes come from smart styling, not square footage. Your space can be a sanctuary, a creative lab, and your personal cinema, all rolled into one.
