Home Hack Studio – Ideas for Small Apartments

Congratulations to you, residents of the studio. Apparently you're creating storage out of thin air, hacking every square inch of your space and always making us say, "Now why didn't I think about it?" The 650 square foot studio Project Founder and designer Aimee Wertepny, however, is a game changer. Its space is a great example of using a monochromatic palette to make a small apartment shine. Even better, it does a nifty trick to make it even more spacious.

Wertepny used his bed to divide the study into two areas. Using her bed and sofa, one behind the other, to create a wall, she essentially transformed her studio into a one-bedroom apartment.

To get the look in your own home, start by getting rid of your headboard. It takes up space and you just don't need it. The back of your sofa will act as a headboard with this design. Then place your bed and sofa near the center of your desk, with the head of the bed resting on the back of your sofa.

There are other ways to visually divide an open design and create a different space for sleeping (or working or going out). If you have a work of art, feel free to hang it on the ceiling between two areas. Aimée used a macrame banner, but you can actually use any illustration. This will further create the illusion of a separation wall.

Any other options? If you have a loft-like space with vaulted ceilings, try using a closet to hide the bed (separating it from the rest of the room). Something as simple as a curtain can also create a sense of intimacy, while keeping you from feeling claustrophobic. Large plants (or a row of plants hanging to create a veil of greenery), a display or a simple wardrobe can also be useful. Here!

Although it is super smart and cool, is the floor plan really functional? I asked Aimee if there was anything wrong with the design, and her response was a resounding "no". It worked for her for years and it could certainly work for you too. Scroll down to see more space and take a look at the floor plan so you too can use this clever idea in your own home.