January 15, 2026
Living in a small apartment doesn't mean sacrificing style or functionality. With thoughtful renovation planning and smart design choices, you can create a space that feels open, organised, and inviting. At Inhaus Living, we've helped countless Canberra and Sydney apartment owners maximise every square metre—here's how we do it.
Built-In Storage Solutions
One of the most effective ways to maximise small apartment space is through custom built-in storage. Floor-to-ceiling cabinetry along walls, under-bed drawers, and window seating with hidden compartments can dramatically increase usable storage without encroaching on living areas. Consider integrating storage into areas that typically go unused: above doorways, beneath stairwells, or inside walls.
In kitchens, pull-out pantries, corner carousels, and drawer organisers make every centimetre count. In bathrooms, recessed vanity cabinets and mirrored medicine cabinets provide storage without bulk. The key is to work with your builder to design storage that fits your specific needs and lifestyle.
Open-Plan Layouts
Removing non-structural walls to create an open-plan living, dining, and kitchen area can make a small apartment feel significantly larger. Natural light flows more freely, and sightlines extend across the space, creating a sense of depth. However, open-plan living requires careful zoning to avoid a chaotic feel.
Use furniture placement, rugs, and lighting to define distinct zones. A kitchen island can double as a dining table or work surface. A floating shelf can visually separate the living area from the kitchen without blocking light. Always consult a structural engineer before removing any walls—in apartment buildings, some walls may be load-bearing or require strata approval.
Multifunctional Furniture
Investing in multifunctional furniture is essential for small apartments. Sofa beds, extendable dining tables, fold-down desks, and ottomans with built-in storage serve multiple purposes without occupying extra floor space. Murphy beds and wall-mounted tables can transform a bedroom into a home office or living area during the day.
When selecting furniture, prioritise pieces with clean lines and legs that allow light to pass underneath—this creates a sense of visual weightlessness. Avoid oversized furniture that dominates the room; instead, choose proportions that suit the scale of your space.
Light and Colour
Light colours and reflective surfaces can make a small apartment feel significantly larger. White, light grey, and soft neutrals on walls and ceilings expand the perceived space. Mirrors strategically placed opposite windows or in narrow hallways can double the sense of depth and bounce natural light.
Maximise natural light by keeping window treatments minimal and ensuring windows are clean. If privacy is a concern, consider sheer or frosted glass. For artificial lighting, layer ambient, task, and accent lighting to create depth and avoid a flat, single-source appearance.
Vertical Space
Don't forget to use vertical space. Tall shelving units, wall-mounted storage, and hanging plants draw the eye upward and make ceilings feel higher. In kitchens, extend cabinets to the ceiling for maximum storage and a cohesive look. Consider a ladder or library-style shelving for a stylish yet functional solution.
At Inhaus Living, we specialise in apartment renovations across Canberra and Sydney. Our team understands the unique challenges of Class 2 buildings—strata approvals, noise restrictions, and access limitations—and we work with you to create solutions that maximise your space while respecting building requirements.