Living in a small space is a daily reality for many students and young professionals. Between the bed, desk, clothes, storage, and sometimes the kitchen, every square inch counts. But the good news is: with a little cleverness and the right equipment, you can easily optimize the space in a studio apartment or small bedroom, without sacrificing comfort or style. Follow the guide!
Think vertically (not horizontally)
In a small space, you have to think like in a big city: We build upwards! Rather than lining up low furniture that takes up all the floor space, opt for:
- Wall shelves, including above doors or the bed;
- A hanging or ceiling-mounted rack for hanging a few clothes;
- Stackable storage (bins, boxes, drawers on wheels).
You'll gain space, but also visibility. A well-used wall can replace an entire wardrobe.
Choose smart and multifunctional furniture
The more versatile the furniture, the more space you save:
- A bed with drawers or built-in chest: perfect for storing bed linen, coats or shoes.
- A folding table or a retractable desk: immediate space saving once the day is over.
- A stool that serves as storage or a bedside table, etc.
Every piece of furniture should have at least two functions to be worthy of inclusion in a small space.
Limit the superfluous in the dressing room
You don't need a 10m² walk-in closet to be well-dressed. On the contrary, a well-designed wardrobe can easily fit on a single rod. Here are a few guidelines:
- Rotate your clothes according to the season.
- Only keep the pieces you actually wear.
- Favor basics that are easy to combine.
And above all, to save even more space: equip yourself with a portable steam iron, like the James 2.
Compact, foldable, and with a detachable cable, it fits in a drawer or shelf and replaces an iron and ironing board. Ideal for keeping your outfits neat and tidy without taking up space.
Organize your laundry smartly
Laundry can quickly become overwhelming if not managed properly. Here are some simple tips:
- Store clean clothes rolled up rather than folded (save space + fewer creases).
- Use vacuum bags for out-of-season clothes.
- Hang your lightweight pieces on space-saving hangers or even on the rod of a hanging shelf.
And to avoid the "overflowing basket" effect, adopt a routine: a quick steamer run in the evening, a targeted wash during the week, and no more stress as the weekend approaches.
Use the nooks and crannies: under the bed, door, radiator, etc.
Every corner can become a useful space. Think about:
- Boxes under the bed (or a raised bed with built-in storage).
- Hooks behind the door for jackets, bags or accessories.
- A telescopic bar above the radiator for hanging a damp t-shirt or a shirt to be steamed.
Tip: The James 2 steamer can also be hung on the wall or stored in a discreet cover, so it's always within reach without being visually intrusive.
Create a minimalist routine
Finally, living in a small space also means learning to simplify your daily life:
- Adopt a quick laundry routine: quick steaming, daily tidying, regular sorting.
- Centralize your cleaning products in a single box (wipes, steamer, lint roller, etc.).
- Never leave a wrinkled garment lying around: it's the beginning of visual clutter.
A tidy and well-maintained room instantly appears larger and more pleasant to live in.
Conclusion
Optimizing a small space is a combination of common sense, smart equipment, and efficient habits. By making the right choices (functional furniture, a storage routine, compact appliances like the James 2), you'll gain space, comfort... and peace of mind.
Because yes, even 15 m² can become a real cocoon, provided you make the best use of it.