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sha83

Need Decorating Tips- Studio Apartment

10 years ago

Hi,


I have been living in my studio apartment for some time now and I would like to make it more modern but cozy with an overall better design. I never really decorated, just some pieces here and there but now I am ready to go all in.

I would like a modern look but functional. The wall with my TV is long so I definitely need to do something with it. Please help, I am new to this decorating thing.

Please don't mind the pic frames or random clothing :)

*I cannot paint the walls.

Thanks in advance.

- Sha







Comments (21)

  • 10 years ago

    You may want to put a partition (folding screens, for example) to separate the living area from the sleeping area.

  • 10 years ago

    Looks like a really cute place, love the wood floors too! And nice high ceilings. I'd say the room wants something tall on both sides of the TV. So, basically, some things that will make a difference are artwork, interesting frames, perhaps some modern or "boho" sconces with battery candles. I like the grouping of small mirrors, I would put them closer together and add more. Perhaps decoupage the frames? I have a project with round mirrors from Walmart that I'm decoupaging the frames with patterned tissue paper and it's interesting to say the least... Love the red and a nice variety of pillows on the sofa. I would also consider taping wallpaper or wrapping paper to the doors, nothing permanent but it would bring in some pattern. How do you feel about the shades on your windows?

  • 10 years ago

    Get a curtain rod that mounts to the ceiling. Add a curtain floor to ceiling to form a wall between the bedroom and the living room.

    Now put your sofa against the big wall where TV is now and the TV against the new curtain wall.

    Declutter.

  • 10 years ago
    I like the idea of separating the living space. Center the bed and I would do a larger piece above the bed.
    Shaleia Reid thanked Adrienne
  • 10 years ago
    Can you hang the mirror on a wall or door to free up space?
  • 10 years ago
    Are you keeping existing furniture? Do you want a partition?
    I think you should start with larger art. In a large open space you need larger art. If you do a grouping the art should be closer together. I like the red accents, but wonder how it would look to switch the red pillows on the bed with some of the sofa pillows. That may be all you need to tie the red and brown together.
    You could probably use nightstands and lamps beside bed, and I agree with replacing bistro table. Choose something with a wood top or else it looks too much like a patio set.
    Shaleia Reid thanked MarleneM
  • 10 years ago

    Not sure I agree with dividing the space. It might block light and make both spaces feel smaller. The sofa does a good job of defining the two different spaces.

  • 10 years ago

    Thank you for all for the compliments and tips. I am definitely taking in all of the advice.

    @MarleneM- Yes I would be keeping existing furniture. Although one commentor said I should get rid of the dresser by my bed which is not a bad idea, so I may do that. Getting a new table may also help. Thanks for the tips.

    hgoodwin01- I like the taping wall paper idea and scones tip. I was thinking about curtains but I wasn't too sure about them. Do you recommend patterned ones?

    @einportlandor - Wow that was really helpful. I will more than likely get rid of my dresser I do like the idea of having something lower. I agree that I need more lighting. I will see what Ikea has.


  • 10 years ago

    If you get rid of the dresser, you could replace with a couple of 3 drawer dressers to use as nightstands. These IKEA ones are stylish and affordable. https://www.houzz.com/products/vallvik-3-drawer-chest-prvw-vr~255972

    Shaleia Reid thanked MarleneM
  • 10 years ago

    For curtains, if you like the view, patterned lightweight material would be a good way to go. I like the idea of hanging the rods off the ceiling if that's an option. Another idea would be roman shades in a patterned fabric. I think I would mount them outside the window opening rather than inside like they are now. I've helped a lot of clients with Smith & Noble, they have a lot of great options.

    Shaleia Reid thanked hgoodwin01
  • 10 years ago
    I'm no professional but the cafe table does seem to be in the way. How about a sofa table behind the couch (move the couch up a tad) with 2 backless barstools, a smaller coffee table will allow you to move the couch up. Hang the large mirror where the small ones are and get 2 low 3 drawer dressers for either side of the bed. If you need extra storage move the existing dresser in the hall by the door with a small basket on top for keys and mail.
    Shaleia Reid thanked Barbara Simpson
  • 10 years ago

    Barbara, I like your idea for a dining/console table! Good thinking!

    https://www.houzz.com/photos/contemporary-basement-contemporary-basement-minneapolis-phvw-vp~4638035

  • 10 years ago

    Shaleia, your place is great! Very spacious for a studio, great light, and i particularly love it that the kitchen in nowhere in sight from the living area. You mention being there for a while. Have you tried any other layouts? I was wondering if there is a way to reconfigure the living area with an alternate spot for the dining table.

    I'd slightly rearrange the sleeping area as below, adding a bedside table/dresser and light.

    Shaleia Reid thanked gella81
  • 10 years ago
    Hi Shaleia,
    I agree with you that the idea of pictures on the walls is on the right track, your rooms seem to need some visual interest that moves the eye up, down, and around. The easiest, easiest to change, and most cost effective I think would be curtains on your windows. Patterned curtains with color to tie your brown sofa with your red bedcovers. Here are a few ideas from Target, but a World Market also has some interesting options for you.
    Also, for variety in height, consider a floor lamp for your bedside or your living room area, something substantial or with texture/design. Be bold! You can do it!
    Shaleia Reid thanked amherstcottage
  • 10 years ago
    As a follow up, if you like any of these floor lamps, I found them on WalMart.com
  • 10 years ago
    I would also utilize the hallway for family pictures and replace the black frames with art. I love the style of the studio and see a large canvas or wall painting above your bed....Something that you could create yourself (50%off coupon for JoAnns or Michaels). Do you have a large floor rug? That may help divide the room without losing light. Put the mirror where the flower is. Add a plant in there somewhere, perhaps on the ottoman to add color. I agree with the idea of swapping some pillows on the couch and bed to bring in the red element. What size if your television? Perhaps you could do a long shelf on the wall about 2ft from top and put some of the items on the console on it. There are some interesting things you can do with the walls since you cannot paint them.... Like use fabric!!! (Pinterest) Some drapes will add flavor too!! Have fun!!!
  • 10 years ago

    Shaleia Reid thanked gella81
  • 10 years ago
    I would turn the bed with the side against the wall. Line the back with pillows and you will have the look of a daybed. It will look like a second seating area and give you more space.
    Shaleia Reid thanked linlac
  • 10 years ago

    linlac - That is a good idea. I also like the bedding in the images you posted.

    amherstcottage - Yes, I can do it! lol. Thanks for the posting the lamps. I definitely need more light.

    gella81- When I first moved in my layout was similar to the one you drew. I could go back to it.

    hgoodwin01 - I never thought about roman shades. I actually like that idea. Decisions, decisions.

  • 10 years ago

    Putting a mirror into your entryway would make it look bigger.