Designing Small Spaces: 6 Ways to Maximize Style and Storage
Making the most of every corner — without the clutter.
Whether you’re styling a cozy apartment, a small bedroom, or just that one awkward nook that always stumps you, designing small spaces doesn’t have to feel limiting. In fact, with the right mindset and a few smart styling tricks, it can be fun. At Claire Meyer Design, we believe every space (yes, even the tiny ones!) deserves to be joyful, functional, and full of personality.
So if you’re working with less square footage, here are some of my favorite tips to help you style with intention without sacrificing comfort or charm.
Use Your Vertical Space
When floor space is limited, go up! Wall-mounted shelves, tall bookcases, peg rails, or even a cute set of hooks can add both style and storage without crowding the room.
Tips for styling vertically:
Tall bookshelves that draw the eye upward
Wall-mounted storage for kitchen or bathroom items
Hanging plants or sconce lighting to free up surface space
Think of vertical space as your secret weapon. It helps draw the eye upward and makes the room feel bigger and more balanced.
2. Style in Trays or Baskets
One of my go-to tricks for small spaces is using trays or baskets to group and contain items. Whether it’s a candle and coasters on the coffee table or a few pretty jars in the bathroom, styling within a tray keeps things feeling tidy and intentional (instead of random and cluttered). Bonus: It makes cleaning or moving things around super easy.
3. Less Really Is More
In small spaces, every item has to earn its place. I always tell my clients—don’t be afraid of a little breathing room! Too many pieces can quickly make a room feel crowded.
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Here are a few questions to ask:
Do I love this piece?
Does it serve a function?
Is it competing for attention with other items?
Choose fewer, well-loved items that bring you joy and let them shine. A thoughtfully styled corner feels more peaceful (and more you) than one packed full of things. Head over here for tips on decluttering your space.
4. Decorate With the Everyday
Not every decorative item needs to be fancy or store-bought. Books, a favorite mug, a woven throw, or your go-to oil diffuser can double as decor and serve a purpose. When you style with pieces you actually use, your space feels lived-in in the best possible way—warm, welcoming, and true to your story.
5. Let Shelves Do the Heavy Lifting
Open shelving is a small space superstar. From kitchens and living rooms to bathrooms and bedrooms, shelves are perfect for showing off pretty items and adding extra storage. Just be sure to style them intentionally, mix textures, layer heights, and leave a little negative space for a curated (not crowded) look.
Ideas for shelf styling:
Add a few framed photos or art prints
Mix in functional pieces like jars, mugs, or folded linens
Incorporate baskets or boxes for hidden storage
Floating shelves, corner shelves, and even picture ledges can be game changers in tight spaces.
6. Choose Pieces With a Purpose (or Two!)
In a small space, multifunctional items are key. Think a bench with storage, a side table that doubles as a stool, or an ottoman with hidden compartments. Every piece should serve your space in more than one way: function and beauty, storage and style.
My Thoughts on Small Spaces
Small spaces have just as much potential to bring you joy—and maybe even more. With a little intentionality and some smart styling, you can create a space that feels warm, peaceful, and functional, no matter the square footage. Want more tips on styling and loving your small home? Check out this blog post.
If you’re feeling stuck or unsure where to start, I’d love to help you create a space that brings you joy (even if it’s just a corner or a cozy nook). Whether it’s a virtual refresh or a full-service design project, together we can make your small space work beautifully for you.
