9 Tips for Maximizing Space in a Small Apartment in Singapore in 2022

In the United States as well as other developed countries like New Zealand and the United Kingdom, living in small homes is *a thing*. In times of recession and rising property prices, small apartments can be a much more affordable option than larger ones (and they're also much easier to clean), especially for singles and families without kids.

There are many definitions of what constitutes a 'small house,' which range from less than 37 sq m to a maximum of 93 sq m, but Singapore homes seem to fit the bill. HDB flats typically range in floor area from 36 sq m (2-room flexi, type 1) to 90 sq m (4-room flat). It's 50 sq m to 70 sq m for shoebox or 1-bedroom condo units.

Especially if you live in a small home and have lots of stuff or want to minimize clutter, space efficiency is vital. It may be that you just want more space for guests or that you want to make your living quarters seem more spacious.

It is always a good thing to have more space for your home, no matter what the reason.

1. Do away with the false ceiling

A false ceiling is a good option if you want to conceal messy electrical wiring, or if you want to install sound-proofing or aesthetically pleasing cove lights. Many people who install false ceilings claim they help with thermal insulation (keeping the house warm/cool) or even prevent damage to the actual ceiling.

In Singapore, the ceilings aren't that high, so a false ceiling could make your apartment seem even smaller and cramped. Plus, that pocket of space could harbor dirt and creepy crawlies if not kept clean.

2. Brighten the room with simple colors

Colours should be kept to a minimum. While a multi-hued interior would be ideal for quirky personality types, it might make your space look smaller if you add patterned wallpaper or textural effects to the walls.

Your space will appear more spacious and airy if you use a light, simple colour scheme. Generally, lighter shades reflect light to make a home appear brighter, whilst darker shades absorb light. A Scandinavian-style home will have a light color palette. The designs usually feature a lot of wood-like surfaces and even touches of turquoise, black, or green for a bit of interest.

3. It is important to compartmentalize

Separating different areas and creating a multifunctional space with defined boundaries helps to minimize clutter as well as give a feeling of more space.

Living areas can function as a dining area, a work/activity/relaxation area, and even contain storage, making every inch count. Creating a sense of separation between the kitchen and living areas is also made possible by changing the colors and textures in the space.

4. Make use of glass walls

The unique quality of glass is that it can physically separate a room while still letting in light, all while giving the impression that the room is open and accessible.

Add geometric interest to your home by installing glass walls with colored frames, especially in the living room. In addition, they maintain a semblance of privacy for the person inside, while providing a sense of openness. Having glass walls in a room with darker tones helps to balance out the dark colours, creating an interesting light interplay and visually opening up the room.

5. Make a room larger by cutting it down

Sometimes it can be worth removing walls in an already-small house to make the area look bigger and more spacious. In addition to providing a fantastic social area or a fun play area for your active children, an open concept home can compromise privacy and wall space for cabinets and hanging decor.

It's important to keep in mind that hacking walls can increase your renovation bill significantly. Furthermore, it may make your house less valuable.

6. Use a platform bed to maximize storage

The right amount of storage not only helps you keep your belongings in order, but also keeps clutter out of sight and ensures your home looks neat and tidy to visitors. Flush-mount storage does take up some valuable space, but the clean lines and minimal clutter make any home feel bigger and cleaner.

You can also maximize your storage areas in "hidden" areas such as under your bay window bench and seat, inside your coffee table, or even inside your platform bed. You will have plenty of storage space while looking sleek.

7. Keep the kitchen open

In addition to hacking walls to open up living spaces, you can also make your kitchen appear bigger by turning it into an open-concept one. The dining table can be used as a kitchen island or a "tasting table" for the chef of the house via a simple hack such as using similar colors in your living room and kitchen.

One (small) downside, however - if you usually cook with oil or fried foods, an open-concept kitchen may cause the cooking fumes to seep into your living space.

8. Create a sense of space by strategically using mirrors

Reflecting light makes a room appear brighter, and they give the illusion that your home is larger than it actually is. A mirror can also add a touch of class and sophistication, add privacy to a room, or even use it as an intriguing feature wall.

9. Opt for furniture with exposed legs

In small apartments, bulky furniture will only add to the cramped feeling. If you choose furniture pieces with exposed legs that are smaller and slender, you give the illusion that they are floating since the legs allow visual breathing room and provide a way for light to enter the room. Besides being easier to clean under them, it's also easier to retrieve lost objects.