Modern Style Studio
Living in a small space doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style. With a bit of clever planning you can create a functional home with living, dining, bedroom and work zones that all fit into one open room. Here’s how you can do it:
Start by paring down to the basics. A clean canvas will help your decor pop, and it’ll also make the space feel bigger. Get rid of extra storage items, clothing racks, and kitchen utensils that you no longer use. Then, focus on filling the remaining square footage with essential furniture and decor that is functional and stylish.
The simplest way to separate an open-plan studio apartment is with a visual wall. This trick creates a defined bedroom area without blocking natural light from the rest of the room. For a more creative solution, designers like Shari Francis and Krsnaa Mehta have used wallpaper to add pattern and texture to the walls.
Alternatively, you can try a simple curtain to separate a sleeping area from a living space or even as a way to hide shelves that might look cluttered. The curtains in this space from Folk Design have a dramatic silhouette that adds drama to the home while creating an interesting space-dividing solution.
When it comes to lighting, a well-placed lamp or chandelier can be a great way to illuminate a small space while adding a focal point that draws the eye. It’s also a good idea to use recessed or track lighting for a more uniform look that will give the space a clean, modern aesthetic.
In this modern studio, an interesting combination of wood, stone and metal constructs is used to define the living space from the bedroom area. This designer’s knack not only makes the space more functional by separating the two areas but it also adds warmth and character to the home.
Another space-dividing option is to hang a bold color on your wall. While light hues are typically the go-to for opening up and brightening smaller spaces, a dark paint job can do wonders, too. In this studio apartment, a deep chocolate brown tone is used to create a cozy and intimate vibe while still feeling bright and airy.
Studio AHEAD is an experimental practice in Northern California that uses local artisans and deep artistic traditions to reframe traditional notions of function and beauty. The team partners with makers like Inverness, CA woodworker Ido Yoshimoto and Sebastopol textile workshop JG Switzer to design one-of-a-kind commissions rather than relying on standard products.
If your apartment is equipped with high ceilings, you can take advantage of the vertical space and build a mezzanine to loft the bed and create more living and storage space below. This is a great option for those who love to entertain guests and want a space that can easily be converted from bedroom to lounge when needed.