Living in a New Jersey apartment often means making the most out of limited space. Whether you're in a cozy spot in Fairway 28 or a compact one-bedroom in a bustling part of the city, the challenge is universal: how do you make a small space feel stylish and spacious? Country Classics is here to help you navigate the nuances of apartment living. From inventive storage solutions to clever furniture choices, we'll view a variety of strategies designed to maximize your living area.

Dual-Purpose Furniture

In a small apartment, each piece of furniture should ideally serve more than one purpose.

• Sofa Beds and Daybeds: Perfect for studio apartments, these can be used as seating during the day and converted into a bed at night, offering an excellent solution for guests or a smart way to manage a one-room living situation.

• Extendable Dining Tables: Tables that can be extended are ideal for those who entertain guests occasionally but don’t need a large table daily. Look for designs where the extensions can be neatly tucked away when not in use.

• Ottomans with Storage: An ottoman that opens up to reveal storage space can be a place to rest your feet, an extra seat, a coffee table, and a storage unit all in one.

• Folding Desks and Chairs: For those working from home, a folding desk and chair can be easily stored away when not in use, freeing up valuable floor space.

Utilizing Vertical Space

Maximizing vertical space is a key strategy in small apartment living. It's about looking up and making the most of the walls and higher areas in your home, which are often underutilized.

• Wall-Mounted Shelves and Racks: Installing shelves and racks on walls can free up floor space while providing ample storage for books, decor, or daily essentials. They also add an element of visual interest to your walls.

• Hanging Baskets and Planters: Utilize the vertical space for both storage and aesthetics. Hanging baskets in the kitchen can store fruits or vegetables, while planters can bring greenery into your space without occupying floor area.

• Over-the-Door Organizers: These are great for creating extra storage in bathrooms or closets perfect for holding toiletries, small towels, or accessories.

• Tall, Narrow Furniture: Opt for tall, narrow dressers or cabinets that take up less floor space but offer the same amount of storage as their wider counterparts.

Decluttering and Organizing

Living in a small space means that clutter can have a big impact. Keeping your apartment organized and clutter-free is crucial for maximizing space.

• Regular Decluttering: Set a routine to regularly sort through your belongings and get rid of items you no longer use or need. This frees up space and makes it easier to organize what you have.

• Use of Organizers: Drawer dividers, shelf organizers, and storage bins can help keep your belongings neatly arranged and easily accessible.

• Innovative Storage Solutions: Look for hidden storage opportunities, like under-bed storage containers or furniture with built-in storage, to keep off-season items or extra linens out of sight.

• Go Digital: Reduce physical clutter by digitizing where possible. Opt for e-books, online subscriptions, and digital files instead of physical books, magazines, and documents.

Efficient Layout and Design 

The layout and design of your apartment play a crucial role in maximizing the available space. Thoughtful arrangement and design choices can make your apartment feel larger and more open:

• Furniture Arrangement: Opt for a layout that allows free movement. Place larger pieces against walls to maximize open floor space. Consider the flow of traffic in your room to avoid a cramped feeling.

• Light and Color: Light colors make spaces feel bigger and brighter. Opt for sheer curtains that allow natural light to filter in. Mirrors can also be strategically placed to reflect light and create an illusion of more space.

• Multifunctional Spaces: Design areas that can serve multiple purposes. For instance, a dining table can double as a workspace or a living room corner can be set up for yoga or exercise.

• Scale Furniture to Room Size: Choose furniture that fits the scale of your room. Oversized pieces can overwhelm a small space, while furniture that’s too small may not be functional.

Community Amenities as Extended Living Spaces

In apartment living, especially in smaller spaces, community amenities can effectively extend your living area, providing additional spaces for activities:

• Fitness Centers: Utilize the on-site fitness center to save space from home gym equipment in your apartment.

• Pet Wash Stations: For pet owners, having access to a pet wash station means you can keep bulky pet bathing supplies out of your apartment. Pet wash stations are available at all of our communities.

• Multi-Purpose Rooms: These community spaces can be used for gatherings or events, eliminating the need for a large, private area within your apartment to host guests.

• Fairway 28’s On-site Storage: For residents of Fairway 28, take advantage of the on-site storage facilities. This amenity can be a game-changer for storing less frequently used items, such as holiday decorations or outdoor gear, helping keep your living space organized and breathable.

• Outdoor Spaces: If your apartment community has gardens, patios, or rooftop spaces, use these for relaxation or entertaining, providing a change of scenery without the need for more square footage.

Visit us at Country Classics to see how our apartment designs and community amenities in Bridgewater, Somerset, and Frenchtown can help you maximize your living space. Connect with us today to find your perfect fit!