Tips for setting up small spaces

When it comes to small-apartment-style living, maximizing space is key.

Depending on the size of your environment, furniture placement can especially be a challenge. From furniture size to colors and even materials, here are some tips:

Do:

■ Use light or neutral colors. Light colors will automatically help open up a space.

■ Create a floor plan. This should be done before one ever heads out to shop.

■ Choose furniture of the appropriate size and scale. Selections that are sleek, paired down and minimal will work well.

■ Blend cool and warm colors. Soothing grays and warm taupes can work really well together.

■ Start off with a few key pieces and then shop and add as you go. It’s OK to not purchase everything at once.

Don’t:

■ Overstuff a room. Editing can be helpful in creating an appealing space.

■ Dismiss the power of creating zones. For example, creating a living, dining and sleep zone can creatively maximize your space.

■ Forget the opportunity to design vertically. From partitions to bookshelves, these items can help display beautiful items and help define a space.

■ Forget to mix materials. In general, opaque surfaces visually take up space, while transparent surfaces do the opposite.

■ Purchase the set. In smaller spaces, buying sets that include multiple furniture pieces tends to be too much furniture. Often, less is more.