Bringing you the best small apartment living room ideas on a budget!
Decorating your small apartment living room on a budget can be challenging, but with some creativity and strategic planning, you can make a cute and cozy place to live.
Maximizing your living room space is crucial for creating a functional and stylish living environment in a small apartment.
Whether it's your first apartment or you are ready for a change, this post will show you all the best inspo.
This post is all about the 23 small apartment living room ideas on a budget!
The best small apartment living room ideas on a budget
1. Small living room layout with a sectional couch
Sectionals are fantastic in a smaller space because they give you more seating options and help you maximize the space in your living room.
Sectional couches are the easiest way to make your living room feel put together and more cozy due to their shape.
2. Add a pop of color
Adding a pop of color to your living room is a great way to create a focal point and add character to your room.
Throw pillows are very affordable. So, if you want to switch up your living room every season while on a tight budget, that’s totally achievable.
3. Create extra seating with ottomans
Ottomans are a simple way to create extra seating in your small living area and make an inviting space!
If you're on a low budget, ottomans are the perfect solution. They are affordable, come in all shapes and sizes, and look so cute.
4. Opt for space-saving furniture
Search for creative, fun, space-saving furniture!
I love the idea of a slide-over-the-couch side table - they create extra space, look pretty, and are easy to move around and put away.
5. Furniture with thin legs
It's important to avoid any robust furniture in a smaller space.
Pay close attention to the legs when picking out your furniture, like a coffee table or a couch.
It's wise to use an item of furniture with thin legs for a small space to create optical space.
6. A large mirror
A large mirror does wonders for a small living room.
For small spaces, a mirror adds the illusion of more space and makes your space feel bigger and brighter.
Look for beautiful mirrors at thrift stores or flea markets.
7. Symmetric wall decor
Don't underestimate the power of hanging your gallery wall symmetrically.
If you have too many pieces, it can make your room feel overwhelming and small.
Opt for a few large pieces to create the feel of a bigger space.
8. Small living room dining room ideas
When you have a small living space, sometimes you have no choice but to have your dining room table in your living room.
This often presents a design challenge as it can be difficult to divide the two spaces.
Usually, the best spot for your dining table is next to your living room couch. Opt for an L-shaped couch if you want to create the feel of a separate dining area.
9. Mount your TV
If you have a TV, it can be a great idea to mount it on the wall or place it on top of a sleek TV console table; this saves a ton of floor space in your living room.
10. Keep it light, bright & airy
A living room with natural light, neutral colors, and white walls instantly makes the space feel brighter and larger.
This living room looks fantastic because it focuses on neutral and earthy tones, with bright colors from the greenery.
11. Make a storage cube organizer look cute
Storage cube organizers are affordable and create extra storage space.
Sometimes, they can look a little cheap, but luckily, there are so many fun ways to style them.
12. Add ladder shelves
Ladder shelves are one of my favorite renter-friendly solutions because you don’t have to put any holes in the wall!
Opt for metal ladder shelves if you want something a bit sturdier.
13. Create space with two accent chairs
You could add a second couch to your living room, but two accent chairs work perfectly if you want something more flexible and affordable.
If you're on a small budget, look for accent chairs at antique stores! Don't worry if you can't find a matching set; mix-and-matching looks fantastic.
14. Adjustable lamps
When it comes to illuminating a limited space, the right lighting can make all the difference.
Adjustable lamps are game changers; they allow you to direct light exactly where you need it, perfect for creating different moods or focusing on tasks.
15. Use a console for decor
You might not have enough space for a big dresser in your living room. Luckily, excellent entry table consoles work perfectly in small areas.
Consoles are the perfect spot for cute decor, plants, woven baskets, and a mirror!!
16. Storage Baskets
I've always been a fan of clever storage solutions that don't compromise style. That's why storage baskets are such a game-changer in small living spaces.
These baskets are perfect for tucking away blankets, books, or electronics, keeping them out of sight but within easy reach.
I categorize items before storing them, so I know exactly where to find what I need without any hassle.
17. Small living room with fireplace
An unwanted fireplace can sometimes be a design challenge, but you may as well take full advantage of the mantel.
The mantel is the perfect place for a large mirror, greenery, or picture frames.
18. Multi-Functional Coffee Tables
Think of your coffee table as more than just a spot for your mug and coffee table books.
Multi-functional coffee tables are game changers in small spaces. They come with hidden compartments, adjustable surfaces, and even mini desks.
Imagine lifting the top to find storage for your remotes, books, or even a cozy nook for your snacks.
19. Small living room with chimney breast ideas
If you have a chimney breast in your living room - I hope you take full advantage of it.
In a small living room, the chimney breast is perfect for decor pieces, think candles, flowers, or even a large mirror.
20. Floating shelves
Floating shelves are amazing space-savers that attach directly to your walls, freeing up precious floor space while offering a chic display for your books, plants, and other goodies.
Maximize every inch by arranging shelves at varying heights to create a dynamic visual effect and ensure you have room for items of all sizes.
Choose a theme or color scheme for your items to keep the look cohesive.
21. Hanging plants
Bringing a touch of greenery into a tiny space adds color and life and can also enhance the feeling of space.
Hanging plants are an inexpensive way to utilize vertical space without sacrificing floor area. Here's how I've incorporated them into my living space:
- I selected a variety of plants that thrive indoors and require minimal maintenance.
- I used stylish hanging planters that complement my room's decor, ensuring they serve both an aesthetic and functional purpose.
- I placed them at different heights to create a dynamic visual effect and to draw the eye upward, making the room feel larger.
This approach has allowed me to enjoy the benefits of indoor plants without cluttering my limited floor space. It's a simple yet effective way to breathe life into a compact area.
22. Add a dresser to your living room
Using a dresser instead of a standard TV console is a great idea, as it creates a whole lot more storage space.
Place a small sofa, accent chair, and large area rugs around it to create a cozy space.
23. Tall Bookcases
In my quest to make the most of my small living room, I've discovered that tall bookcases are a game-changer.
They draw the eye upward, creating the illusion of height and making the room feel larger than it is.
Their build doesn't take up much floor space, yet they offer ample room for books, decorative items, and even small storage boxes.
