Styling a Studio Apartment: 19 Tips You Need to Know

If you currently live in or have experienced living in a studio apartment you know what it means to work with what you’ve got. Transforming a single room into a livable space that acts as a bedroom, living room, kitchen, office and more is no small task, and doing it alone can be a very arduous process. That’s why we’ve reached out to the experts in studio design from Miami to Portland, to offer their insights on how you can make your studio apartment as livable as possible without sacrificing aesthetic. So if you’re moving into your first studio or dorm room, follow these 20 tips to make the process as simple as possible.

Recognize the power of association

The power of association for humans cannot be understated, that’s why we recommend you organize your studio apartment around three main hubs of activity, each with access to an ample amount of natural light. First is where you sleep, make sure that your bed and resting area is neat and surrounded by only the essentials, keep your electronics away! Second is where you want to be productive; some may get more use out of this space than others, but everyone should have a space for taxes, bills, serious hobbies, etc. Put the power of productivity in your hands! Lastly have a place to relax, this is where you can watch TV, read, and generally unwind; having a designated space for each kind of activity will make it easier for your brain to tackle tasks with precision and intent. – Inhabitr

Efficiency is your friend

Studio apartment living is all about minimalism and efficiency. Storage beds are a great place to keep some clothing that can help you reduce the size of the dresser or armoire you buy. Keep your paint colors neutral or bright, as a dark color will make your space feel more confined. If you can, get some barstools for your counter to reduce the need for a table in the kitchen area. Above all, declutter at least once per quarter. You’d be amazed how much space can be created with a reduction in the knickknacks you allow to accumulate!
Maureen Mcdermut Santa Barbara RE

Try to create some sense of division

My biggest tip for designing a studio apartment is to create division and designated spaces for sleeping, dining, cooking, and living. With one open space, it is so easy to see clutter and feel confined to a single box. Easy ways to create division in a space are to define zones with different area rugs, add dividing screens, create privacy walls with bookshelves that add storage, and even hanging curtain panels to create division.
Design Dudes

Give attention to negative space

Ever heard of the saying ‘Less is more?’ This also holds true when styling your apartment. Refrain from pushing your furniture up against your walls and instead work on creating mini spaces within your room. (Tip: You can also use rugs to section off areas within the same space!) Also, avoid putting your furniture too close together. You want enough space between your furniture to help you easily and comfortably move around.
Foerni Limited

No windows? No Problem!

There are many affordable lighting solutions for small or stuffy apartment spaces. These come in all shapes and sizes and can be standing lamps, LED lights and ambient lights that replicate the feeling of warm sunlight. These can be hidden or if they’re visually appealing, placed somewhere as a centerpiece. Most of these options can be bought in places like Amazon or other online retailers. – Big Spoon Co.

Think maximization

When designing your studio apartment, think maximization when it comes to furniture function and layout but think minimization when it comes to visual clutter. Use materials that don’t take up visual space like acrylic or glass. Hang one large impactful art piece or use peel and stick wallpaper to create a large accent feature instead of hanging a busy gallery wall. Even consider one cohesive paint color for your walls, built-ins, and cabinetry to avoid chopping up space visually (bonus: the room will appear larger!).
Sidney Wagner Designs

Take advantage of multipurpose furniture

Make the most of every inch of floor space with multipurpose furniture pieces. A wall-mounted shelf with coat hooks adds a spot for displaying art and photographs while storing coats more efficiently in a small hallway. A Murphy desk provides a dedicated workspace when you need it, without crowding your living space when you don’t.
NY State MLS

Studio Apartments are the ultimate in self-expression in a very limited square foot space.  In order to feel as if the environment is larger than the actual footprint, several key strategies can be put in place to succeed.  First, don’t overlook multi-functioning furnishings.  These creative objects can provide several functioning purposes while taking up minimal space.   A dining settee with a mid-height back can comfortably sit for evening meals and double up as a small sofa for binge-watching your favorite series on Netflix.  Throw in a small cushion/ottoman for an impromptu meal guest and then use it to prop your feet up with the settee.
Pu’uwai Design and Build

Having a murphy bed allows you to increase your usable space during the day for your hobbies and needs. A Murphy bed is a regular bed that can be folded up into the wall. This way, your studio can also be your home office or home gym. While Murphy beds are often expensive, companies like Lori Wall Beds offer a high-quality, inexpensive alternative certain to meet the needs of even the tightest budgets.
Lori Wall Beds

Optimize your storage space

Installing frameless cabinets increases drawer storage space by 20%, compared to framed models. Also make sure to fully utilize cabinet drawer space by using a tiered cutlery divider for utensils such as forks, spoons and knives.
Brad Iseri, Senior Kitchen and Bath Designer, HPM Building Supply

Add an artistic touch

One of the easiest ways to transform your space is with art on your wall. It sets the tone for the entire space and can evoke any mood you like; from bright and playful to calm or dramatic. The right art can brighten your mood and uplift your spirits when you walk in the room and has a unique power to transport you anywhere…and don’t be afraid to go big when it comes to size! – Latitudes Gallery, Ventura

One of the quickest and the most unique ways to transform your studio apartment is by using art to create an illusion of a bright open space. There are artists, like myself who will work with you on creating a new vision for your space using a variety of materials; canvas, paintings, wall sculptures, murals, fabrics, acrylic, metal, or wood. The style of the art can be Modern, Bohemian, Traditional, Scandinavian, Shabby Chic, Hollywood Glam, or Rustic with the composition and concept of the art creating a more airy and bright space. Live the dream you envision with art.
Robin Maria Pedrero

Decide on a focal point

A well-staged room has a singular defined purpose and a focal point. Buyers scan a room from left to right when entering, much like we read a book. If you place the tallest piece of furniture in the far left corner, the room will appear larger than if that same piece of furniture is closer to the entry. Placing a large or tall piece of furniture near an entryway or door tricks the eye into thinking a space is smaller than it is, one should keep taller items in corners or eliminate them altogether.
FormDecor Furniture Rental

Decorate with intent

Only add items you love and remember to include focal-point pieces that will make a statement. Items with no installation, such as our Slimline Bio Ethanol Stove, can benefit a studio or small space with a no-fuss setup. This, and other pieces of furniture alike, means you can feng-shui your space until you are happy with the end result.
Bio Fires

Make it original

Put the ‘studio’ back in ‘studio apartment’ by showcasing the cool creative you are.  On a mid-century credenza, a flea market table topped with an Indian bedspread, or a curbside reject revived with paint (pieces that can also offer hidden storage) prop a painting, stack books you’ve read or want to read, place interesting found objects. Start the visual conversation as soon as anyone walks into the room. You be you.
Judith Fertig, Kansas City Magazine

Utilize vertical space

If a space is small, I try to utilize vertical space as much as possible. Perhaps a floating shelf around the perimeter of the top 2′ of the wall for books and plants. Large scale art to create an illusion of grandeur and make a focal point. Paint the ceiling the same color as the wall so the eye doesn’t stop and everything just FEELS more spacious, well designed and FREE.
Spark Vintage Rentals

Less is more

In studios or small apartments, minimalist style is the key. Keep the decor simple and straightforward. I advise you to decorate only with basic furniture. Do not use any furniture pieces or objects that have no specific purpose. This decoration will give a greater sense of space and depth. With fewer elements, space will gain in personality.
Noelia Unik Designs

Make good use of your available space

Living in a studio is really about making good use of every inch of the area while not creating a jam-packed feeling. You may consider including convertible furniture in your home. For example, I have seen a work desk that can be folded and mounted to a wall when not used. It can be displayed as decoration and help to save space tremendously. Another one I have seen is a small coffee table that can be opened up into a big dining table.
Jacob Coleman at RealEstateCareerHQ

Keep it light

Stick with light colors for wall paint and even lighter on the ceiling to draw the eyes upward and to create an illusion of higher ceilings, as well as light-colored flooring. Invest in good lighting to brighten everything up. If you are installing kitchen cabinets, go all the way up to the ceiling so that you can get in more storage and avoid wasted space. Consider a Murphy Bed with built-in shelving/night table space (they make extremely comfortable and attractive ones these days) to enable you to hide your bed during the day. With furnishings, focus on items that have multi-purpose uses, such as a small island that doubles as a kitchen table/workspace, or an ottoman that functions as a coffee table or as seating. Items with built-in storage are helpful to keep clutter at bay.
Team Hatvany

Originally published on Redfin

Blank Wall

Bored with Bland?

Lately we are hearing the same thing from gallery customers.

“We just finished remodeling, its all shades of gray and white and it’s… nice… but we need some color!”

Is your monochromatic space feeling a little bland?

It’s a common problem. People see the rooms that are on trend right now and think:

“That’s what I need! I need to feel relaxed and less stressed. That will do it!”

But there is looking at a room and living in a room. Once the reality on living in a monochromatic space sets in, it may not be the sweet spot you thought it was. Maybe for you, it’s slightly off.

Sometimes, the crisp empty white spaces that seem so peaceful, end up feeling… well, boring.

The truth is, everyone is different. Everyone needs different things and responds to color and space differently. Why would we expect our experiences to feel the same too?

The simplest way to fix this blah feeling, is to pop in some color with a focal point and small accents.

Select a focal point, and pull colors from it into the space.

Select a piece of art with the colors and subject that create the emotion you want to feel. Then, pull those emotion-evoking colors through the space in throw pillows, blankets, candles, vases, etc. Layer those emotion colors in with the monochromatic base and you have an easy to update, very personalized space that is precisely on point for YOU.

Mother and Baby Dolphin

Marine Life Photographs by Steve Munch

by Stephanie Hogue

“Black Honu”

I have been a photographer for a long time…25 years to be exact. I have also seen a lot of photos. When I saw the work of Steve Munch, my breath was taken away. His work has a simplicity and elegance I have never seen before when it comes to wildlife. It almost looks as though it were photographed in a controlled environment like a studio. If I had not been by his side for some of these shots, I may have been suspicious. His work celebrates the beauty of these ocean dwellers that many of us will never get to see so up close and intimate.

“Gray Heart”

The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.

– Jacques Cousteau

“Dolphin Breath”
“Mother and Baby”
“Pelicans in Flight”

Breaching Whale

World Whale Day

Breaching whale

“For most of history, man has had to fight nature to survive; in this century he is beginning to realize that, in order to survive, he must protect it.” – Jacques-Yves Cousteau

As nature photographers with an emphasis on the ocean and marine wildlife, we spend a lot of time on the ocean. The earth’s largest mammal never ceases to take our breath away… each and every encounter is so special.

Fascinating facts about whales

  • Gray whales have one of the longest yearly migrations of any mammal…up to 10,000 miles round trip.
  • Killer whales can live more than 100 years
  • The Blue whale is the largest animal on the planet…weighing as much as 200 tons.
  • Male humpbacks are known for their songs which can be heard for miles underwater and repeated for hours during breeding season.
Transient Orca hunting near Anacapa Island, Channel Islands National Park.
Gray Whale off the coast of Ventura, California with Anacapa Island in the background.
Wave Art

Using Art to Create Emotion

AFTER- Energizing workspace. 30″x60″ “Winter Storm” Metal Print

We underestimate the impact that our surroundings have on us.  The clutter, emptiness and everything in-between, all change how we move and respond in our space.  Have you ever noticed how your body responds to visual stimulation? We feel happier when we see a reminder of pleasant memories, relaxed when we see landscapes, or pain when we see images of suffering.  Art connects you to the experience you wish to create in the space.

Take the time to think about how you want to feel in the room.  Do you want an oasis for your master suite because it is the only space that is yours?

AFTER- Your own oasis.  33″x33″ “Lovely Petals”

 

Is your work space uninspiring and you never seem to want to be in it?

AFTER- Inspiring and inviting workstation.  33″x50″ “Sunstreaks” Modern Wood Print

 

Do you spend hours on end in the kitchen and need a rich view of the outdoors to keep you from going stir-crazy?

AFTER- Transporting scenic for daydreaming. 30″x60″ “Lasting Layers” Metal Print

 

Are your patients cringing by the time they see you because they have been staring at stressful medical posters?

BEFORE- Treatment room overload!

Studies show local scenic photography calms patients and reduces the need for medication.

AFTER- Relaxing escape. 30″x90″ “Purple Mountain Majesty” on Canvas

What do you want to feel?  Create your own reality, with art!

 

Ocean Abstract Art

Art as Your Design Inspiration

55″x55″ “Maui Shorebreak” Acrylic Print

Sometimes a room is just uninspiring and we don’t know how to break free from the “blah”.  Other times we just want a change but don’t want to buy a whole new room.  Art can be the inspiration you need!

“Liquid Crystal” on Acrylic 50″x33″

Take a room with a neutral color palette, add a piece of art, and pull colors and textures from the art into the space with small textiles like pillows and throw blankets, or decor items like candle holders, vases or trays.

27″x40″ “Blue Sky Palms” Wrap Canvas

You can also create a color palette from a few colors, and then later, mix it up by swapping out the accent colors with a new combination taken from your art. By pulling the art into the room with color, you create a rich, 3-dimensional experience.

Horses Galloping in the Ocean

Art as the Finishing Touch in Your Space

30″x60″ “Champagne Curl” Metallic Acrylic

Most of us don’t have the luxury of creating a room all at once.  We often piece it together, incorporating heirloom pieces, unexpected treasures, and functional purchases.  How do you make all of these pieces feel like they belong?  Art.

36″x72″ “Aftermath” over a sectional sofa.

Wall art has the unique ability to tie a room together, incorporating all the little elements and making the room look cohesive and intentional. Our in-house designer can help you find a piece of art that hits all the checkpoints.  Contact us today for your complementary consultation and get ready for the transformation!

Ocean Blues

“Ocean Blues” Exhibit

Ventura ArtWalk October 6 & 7th

Join us in Downtown Ventura for a complete weekend of festivities celebrating the art community in Ventura, California. Our art exhibit features the ocean inspired photography of Steve Munch and Stephanie Hogue. From dreamy seascapes to crashing waves and everything in between, the collection captures the many moods and captivating beauty of the ocean.

10% of Sales during ArtWalk will be donated to Mission Blue, a global coalition to inspire an upwelling of public awareness, access and support for a worldwide network of marine protected areas – Hope Spots.

Ventura ArtWalk at Latitudes Fine Art Gallery
401 E. Main St
Ventura, CA 93001
Saturday, October 6th, 11am-6pm
Sunday, October 7th, noon to 5pm

Focal Point- Transform your space

We often underestimate the importance of a focal point in a space. I like to say it is similar to the flow of a conversation.  When you enter a room something needs to “speak” to you first.  It should be the boldest, the loudest and set the tone for all that follows.  If you don’t have this piece, what occurs is a visual “shouting match” between everything else vying for your attention.  What do I look at first- the plant, the table, the chair, the pattern of the carpet? It all competes unless you have one unifying piece that ties it all together.  It’s the “alpha dog” of the room. The “inspiration piece”.  It’s a “go bold or go home” moment.  I have never found that multiple small art pieces will do the job the way one big piece does.  

 

Investing in one big bold piece of art ties together the myriad of “stories” that are occurring visually in a space, connecting the color palette, subtle textures, patterns and lines, fills the empty spaces with it’s presence, and creates the energy level for the room.  Wow! Did you know you could get all that from one design choice?

Our consultants at Latitudes Fine Art are here to help you connect the dots and find the perfect art for your space.  Contact us today and find your focal point.

tasha-gchp

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“Blazing Sky” is used as a focal point to tie together the horizontal lines in the front desk of this commercial space, the bold red chairs and rich dusty-blue paint.  The colors are continued with “Liquid Crystal” in a more fluid style, creating an inviting and relaxing waiting room.  The 40”x60” of “Two Trees Sunburst” peeks out through the glass window, letting the guest know there is more to discover.

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When finally reaching “Two Trees Sunburst” it leads to more drama and interest around each corner.  The art fills what would be a maze of sterile office walls, giving a presence to the empty spaces, and a way to navigate unfamiliar territory.  For those that work here, the landscapes from Latitudes Fine Art, provides virtual windows, keeping employees energized and centered.

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This dining room is filled by the soaring “Pelicans in Flight” for a private collector of Latitudes Artwork.  He is called to the ocean and seeks pieces that fill the walls with water, movement and marine life.  

unknown This commercial multi-purpose space needed artwork to represent our community and fill the massive amount of empty space.  “Inspiration Point” and “Anacapa Sunrise” provide a soothing backdrop for any activity.  The paint color changes were suggested to enhance the art and the energy of the room.

Art can truly be the key that ties an entire room together!  Find out how we can help you find yours.

Breathtaking Moments in the Camargue

“Moments that take your breath away”… As a photographer, this is what I live for. I recently was so fortunate to get to travel to the south of France and join a small group of photographers on a weekend filled with awe inspiring and breathtaking beauty.
I was immediately enamored with their powerful beauty and playful curiosity. This ancient breed of horses are semi wild but cared for by the guardians (cowboys) who dedicate their lives to these amazing creatures. It was so special to observe the relationships between the horses and also the bonds with the guardians.

After galloping through the water they would take breaks by playfully rolling in the sand, or soaking up the sunshine as the salt water dried on their glistening coats. Other more curious horses would come up close, nudging for a scratch or give us a little nibble. They are known for their intelligence, agility and stamina.

There were lots of foals… ready and eager to get in on the fun. The babies are born a darker color and lighten as they get older.

Being marshland, it was best to dress for deep water so we could get in close. One misstep and that would be the end of my camera gear.

       

This guy had a sense of humor and enjoyed sneaking up and tugging on my scarf when I wasn’t watching!

Images are available now in the Ventura, California, gallery and on the website.

Join us for an opening reception for this new collection:

July 21, 2018
6-8pm
Light Refreshments
Latitudes Fine Art Gallery
401 E. Main St.
Ventura, CA 93001
805-642-5257