How I transformed 610 SF! My Tips and Tricks for Designing the Perfect Apartment

Welcome to my apartment! Today I am sharing with you my decorating tips and giving you a photo tour of my place.

#1 Make a complete plan before you start purchasing items!

My Apartment Strategy: I wanted my apartment to remind me of the Florida Keys/ Miami (my home away from home). In order to do this, I needed to create a balance of tropical glam and eclectic design. I came up with a plan that would bring life to 610 SF, while making the best use of space, natural light, and existing layout. I got on Pinterest, and started pinning ideas, themes, and furniture. Measure your space and come up with a complete plan before you buy anything.

#2 Do your research!

STEP 1: Browse stores online that you CAN’T afford. Why? Get ideas of what looks expensive and what is in style. My favorite online websites are; z Gallerie, Pottery Barn, Georgia and Lulu, Anthropology, West Elm, Serena and Lilly, and One Kings Lane.

STEP 2: Do your best to find the closest substitute on a cheaper website/store. My go-to's are eBay, Houzz, Amazon, Wayfair, Overstock, and TJ Maxx.

#3 Know when to save and when to splurge!

For items you don’t want to replace for at least 10 years, go for quality! I have used the same bed, dresser, bedside tables, and dining room chairs for the last 4-7 years, and they have survived 5 moves! For the larger purchases, go for classic pieces that can evolve overtime with your style.

#4 Add greenery, plants, and flowers.

Small spaces feel less "fresh". I always have Trader Joes flowers in my apartment at all times. If you don’t have a green thumb, create the Illusion of greenery with a fake indoor tree. I found mine at ACE Hardware.

#4 Custom lighting makes all the difference in the world!

My apartment didn’t come with ANY overhead lighting. Most people choose to utilize floor lamps to solve the problem. In a tiny apartment, floor lamps and side tables large enough for a lamp take up too much space. The biggest benefit of custom lighting is the vibe it can create. My apartment feels like a permanent residence opposed to a temporary living situation.

#5 Art: The MOST important touch.

Good art is expensive, so invest overtime. I have one piece that is my favorite, made by Atlanta artist, Carmine Rice. Check out her page. I purchased some art from street artists in New York City, London, and other cities. Professionally frame your art for a polished touch.

#6 Optimize your small space!

When you don’t have a lot of space, every inch counts. Before you start decorating, purge of things you no longer need. Organize your closet. Go to target and buy plastic bins to store items you don’t use on a daily basis. The most useful piece of furniture is my storage bed from Pottery Barn- it holds all of my shoes. Make use of vertical space with high a bookshelf and custom shelving in bedrooms for candles and other decorative items.

#7 Purchase practical accessories.

What are you going to do with a marble dolphin statue? All of my accessories have a duel purpose and don't just "look pretty." I love hosting friends for dinner and wine nights, so the majority of my accessories are based around entertaining.

#8 Get rid of anything that doesn’t bring you happiness

Purge of anything that doesn't bring you joy. I love everything in my apartment. Each item has been carefully curated (no impulse purchases). Every day, I wake up with a clear mind, feeling blessed, energized, and ready to take on the day in the space that enables me to think creatively.