Living in a 700 square foot apartment doesn’t mean you have to give up style or comfort. Small spaces can actually feel cozy, functional, and even beautiful with the right approach.
A lot of families and individuals make these compact homes work by using creative storage and layout tricks. Honestly, it just takes a bit of planning and a willingness to experiment.
You can really transform your 700 square foot apartment into something stylish and practical. Try creating distinct zones, using multifunctional furniture, and adding decor that feels like you.
Whether you’re in a studio or a one-bedroom, these ideas will help you use every inch. You’ll keep things organized and visually interesting, and maybe even surprise yourself with how open it feels.
1. Tall Open Shelves for Vertical Storage
When space is tight, think up! Tall open shelves let you use vertical space that often gets ignored.
These shelves give you lots of storage without eating up your floor. Display your books, plants, and favorite finds while keeping essentials close by.
Look for shelving that stretches toward the ceiling. It works in living rooms, kitchens, or even narrow hallways.
2. Warm-Toned Plant Lights for Coziness
Warm-toned plant lights add a snug, welcoming feel and help your greenery thrive. These lights give off a golden glow that feels way nicer than harsh overhead bulbs.
Set them near your favorite plants or on shelves. The soft amber light makes evenings more pleasant and turns your plant collection into a feature.
You can find affordable options online or even try a DIY with the right bulbs. It’s a simple change, but it really does turn your apartment into a cozy retreat at night.
3. Multi-Functional Furniture (Like a Sleeper Sofa)
Every piece of furniture in a small apartment should pull double duty. A sleeper sofa works as a couch by day and a bed at night.
Pick ottomans with storage inside for blankets or books. Nesting tables don’t take up much space but come in handy when friends visit.
If you want to get fancy, Murphy beds that fold into the wall are a game changer.
4. Light-Colored Curtains to Brighten Space
Light-colored curtains can make a world of difference in a small apartment. Beige, cream, or light grey curtains help your space look bigger and brighter.
When you pick curtains, see how they match your walls and furniture. Lighter fabrics look airy and let in more sunlight.
Simple patterns in silver or ivory add style without cluttering the room. The right curtains can transform your living area and make it feel more open.
5. Large Statement Mirror to Create Depth
A big mirror can double the feeling of space in your apartment. Place it across from a window and bounce that natural light around.
You can find oversized mirrors at plenty of home stores. Go for at least 60 inches if you want real impact.
Try arched mirrors or funky frames for some personality. Wall-mounted options save precious floor space and make the room feel lighter.
6. Display Quote Canvas with Inspiring Words
A quote canvas adds a personal touch to your apartment. Amazon and CanvasChamp have loads with motivational messages in all sorts of styles.
Pick words that lift you up and hang the canvas where you’ll see it every day. Living room or bedroom walls are both good spots.
If you want to save money, try printable wall art quotes. Frame them and add some personality without using up valuable space.
7. Textured Throw Pillows to Mix Fabrics
Throw pillows are an easy way to change the look without adding clutter. The 60-30-10 rule works: use 60% of one fabric, 30% of another, and 10% for a pop.
Mix cotton, velvet, linen, and chunky knits for depth and coziness. It keeps things interesting without overwhelming your apartment.
A good combo? One busy pattern, one geometric print, and one solid or textured pillow. It’s a simple formula, but it just works.
8. Floating Shelves for Stylish Storage
Floating shelves are perfect for tiny apartments. They use your walls for storage and leave the floor open.
Mount them in your living room, kitchen, or even the bathroom. Store books, plants, or little treasures.
Sleek floating shelves look modern and uncluttered. Install them above your sofa or desk to keep things handy.
Pick shelves that match your furniture or go bold with a contrasting color. Arrange a mix of practical stuff and decorative items for the best vibe.
9. Small Dining Nook with Round Table
A round table fits perfectly in a small dining nook. It slides into corners or tight spots and still seats everyone comfortably.
Try a single pedestal base in a dark color for contrast. Add chairs that match your living room for a pulled-together look.
If you’re renting, look for tables that don’t need to be mounted or attached. Some even have storage underneath—handy for small spaces.
10. Metallic Accents for Modern Touches
Metallic accents bring a modern, stylish twist without crowding your apartment. Try gold, silver, or copper in picture frames, lamps, or little decor pieces.
Mix metals for an eclectic vibe, or stick to one for a cleaner look. Even swapping out drawer pulls or adding a shiny coffee table can make things feel upscale.
A metallic mirror frame or light fixture will bounce light around and make your place feel bigger.
11. Layer Area Rugs for Warmth and Style
Layered rugs add coziness and style to small apartments. Start with a big neutral rug—jute or sisal works great.
Toss a smaller, more colorful rug on top. The top one should be about two-thirds the size of the base.
This trick adds texture and warmth without using any extra space.
12. Black Wall Decorations to Add Contrast
Black wall decorations make a statement in a small apartment. Try black frames, shelves, or wall art for contrast against light walls.
No need to paint everything black—just a few black accents give depth and a designer feel.
Balance things out with some color so the space feels lively, not stark.
13. Compact Workspace with Fold-Down Desk
Fold-down desks are a lifesaver in a 700 sq ft apartment. They attach to your wall and disappear when you’re done.
Turn any corner into a functional workspace, then fold it up and reclaim your living area.
Make a little ritual out of setting up and packing away your desk. It helps you mentally separate work and chill time, even in a tiny spot.
14. Candles on Shelving for Soft Light
Candles on shelves bring instant warmth and coziness. Place them on your bookshelves or floating shelves to save space.
Group candles at different heights for a little extra interest. Rustic holders add charm, and the soft flicker makes everything feel more inviting.
This trick works especially well in living rooms and bedrooms, giving you a relaxing glow without taking up any floor space.
15. Sleek Storage Ottomans for Seating and Storage
Storage ottomans really shine in small apartments. You get a comfy spot to sit and a sneaky place to stash your stuff.
I’d go for sleek velvet ottomans that can handle up to 450 pounds. You can tuck away blankets, books, or even a pile of game controllers inside.
Try putting them in your living room or bedroom. Some ottomans even have trays on top, so you can set down drinks or show off a few favorite things.
If you want to keep things extra tidy, toss a couple decorative baskets inside to wrangle the smaller items.