How to Maximise Space in Small Apartments: Interior Design Tips That Work

Living in a compact apartment in Bangalore doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style, comfort, or function. With property prices climbing and apartment sizes shrinking, making the most of every square foot has become more important than ever. Whether you live in a studio, a 1BHK, or a cosy 2BHK, smart interior design can transform your small space into a functional, stylish, and clutter-free space that does not cramp your style or your things.

Here are practical interior design tips – we promise these work – to help you maximise space in your small Bangalore apartment.

1. 1. Use Vertical Space Like a Pro: When floor space is limited, go vertical. Tall shelves, ceiling-height cupboards, and hanging storage can keep your surfaces clear while storing more than you’d expect. Think floor-to-ceiling wardrobes in bedrooms or vertical storage units in kitchens.
      • Bangalore-specific tip: In most new apartments, ceiling height is a good 9–10 feet. Custom carpentry can make use of that extra height, especially in utility areas.
   2. Go Minimal + Multi-Functional: The less furniture you have, the more space you create. Choose pieces that do double duty — like a sofa-cum-bed, a foldable dining table, or an ottoman with storage. Nesting tables are another great option for the living room.
      • Pro Tip: For studio apartments, a fold-down Murphy bed can be a game-changer.
   3. Opt for Light Colours and Reflective Surfaces: Lighter colours visually expand a room, making it feel open and airy. Use whites, beiges, and pastels on walls and furniture. Glossy finishes, mirrors, and glass also help bounce light around and give the illusion of space.
      • Bangalore homes often face north or east. Pair lighter colours with natural light to create a warm, glowing effect.
   4. Open Up the Floor Plan (Where Possible): If you’re doing a home renovation, consider breaking down non-load-bearing walls to create an open-plan living-dining-kitchen space. Fewer walls = more visual flow = more space.
      • Note: Always consult your apartment association and a structural engineer before breaking walls in Bangalore apartments.
   5. Create Zones Without Walls: You don’t need physical dividers to create different zones in your apartment. Rugs, pendant lights, or even furniture placement can help mark different areas like a reading corner or a small home office.
      • Work-from-home tip: Convert a corner of your bedroom into a study nook with a floating desk and vertical storage.
   6. Use Mirrors Strategically: Mirrors can instantly make a space feel larger and brighter. Place large mirrors opposite windows or behind light sources to reflect light and create depth.
      • Design trick: Mirror-panelled wardrobes in bedrooms can make the room look almost twice its size.
   7. Embrace Sliding Doors: Swinging doors eat up space. Switch to sliding doors for wardrobes, bathrooms, and even balconies. Sliding glass doors also allow for uninterrupted views and light.
      • Pro-tip: At Nestopia, we use sliding partitions to separate areas without sacrificing openness.
   8. Make Use of Underutilised Areas: Think under the bed, above the door, or even corners. Use modular furniture with hidden compartments and built-in storage. For example, a bench with storage under the seating or a bed with drawers.
      • In Bangalore homes, the space above kitchen cabinets or wardrobes is often underused. Add storage boxes or build lofts.
   9. Invest in Custom Modular Interiors: Custom furniture, especially modular ones, are made to fit your exact space and lifestyle needs. Unlike bulky ready-made furniture, they make use of every inch efficiently. You can customize height, width, and depth based on your home layout.
      • In Bangalore, modular interiors are available at every price point — from budget to luxury.
   10. Declutter Regularly — Design Loves Breathing Space: Design can only do so much if the space is overloaded with things. Make decluttering a routine. Keep only what you need, use vertical organizers, and rotate décor elements rather than displaying everything at once.
       • Tip: Every 6 months, go through a “keep, donate, discard” cycle.

Bonus Tip: Add Greenery Without Eating Up Space

Indoor plants can liven up small spaces without needing a lot of room. Go for vertical gardens, hanging planters, or narrow floor pots.

Bangalore’s weather is plant-friendly. Try a money plant, pothos, or areca palm indoors.

1. Add a touch of nature: Even a small apartment can feel fresh and cheerful with a few plants. They bring life to your space, clean the air, and make your home more relaxing.
2. Use your walls: No extra floor space? Try vertical gardens or wall planters. They look beautiful and save space at the same time.
3. Hang them up: Hang planters near windows, balconies, or corners to bring in greenery without cluttering tables or shelves.
4. Pick slim pots: Use tall and narrow pots beside your sofa or TV unit. They add style and freshness without blocking movement.
5. Perfect for Bangalore homes: The city’s mild weather is great for indoor plants. You can easily keep them healthy with little effort.
6. Start with easy plants: Money Plant: Grows well in hanging pots and gives a nice trailing effect.
7. Pothos: Easy to maintain, grows fast, and brightens up any spot.
8. Areca Palm: Perfect for corners, adds a tropical feel, and helps clean the air.
9. Match your decor: Choose pots that fit your style — ceramic for elegance, metal for a modern touch, or woven baskets for a cozy look.
10. Create a calm space: Plants add color, soften sharp edges, and make your home look more open and welcoming.

Final Thoughts

Space is a luxury in urban Bangalore, but good design makes even the smallest homes feel spacious and stylish. It’s all about thoughtful planning, smart furniture choices, and a clean visual flow. You don’t need a huge budget — just a sharp eye for function and aesthetics. Or, someone like us 😉