London rent prices mean that unless you’re a millionaire (I am very much not), you learn to make the most of tiny spaces. My flat isn’t big, but it’s home—to me, to Clarkie, and to an absurd number of houseplants I probably don’t need but refuse to part with.
When I first moved in, it felt cramped, dark, and about as cosy as a shoebox. But with some budget-friendly tweaks, a bit of DIY magic, and a few clever storage hacks, I turned it into a space that actually feels like me. If you’re looking to revamp your own small space without spending a fortune, here’s how I did it.
1. Small Space, Big Impact: Let There Be Light
Tiny flats can feel even smaller when they’re dark and cluttered. My first step? Maximising natural light. I swapped out heavy curtains for sheer blinds, added mirrors opposite windows to bounce light around, and picked light-coloured décor to make everything feel more open.
A few warm LED lamps in cosy corners also made a massive difference at night—suddenly, my flat felt inviting instead of just… tiny.
2. Budget-Friendly Décor: Charity Shops & DIY Wins
London has some absolute gems when it comes to second-hand furniture. Instead of splurging on brand-new pieces, I hit up charity shops in Notting Hill, Peckham, and Hackney. With a bit of patience, I found:
✔ A gorgeous vintage bookshelf for £15
✔ A coffee table that just needed a fresh coat of paint
✔ Art frames that I repurposed for my own prints
If you’re up for a bit of DIY, Pinterest and YouTube are your best mates. I learned how to reupholster a chair, repaint furniture, and even create a gallery wall using affordable prints from Etsy.
3. Storage Hacks: Living in a Flat That Fits Your Life
With Clarkie taking up more space than you’d think for a small dog, storage is non-negotiable. My best investments?
- Under-bed storage boxes (perfect for hiding away things I don’t need daily).
- Wall-mounted shelves (when floor space is limited, go up).
- Hanging organisers inside wardrobe doors to hold shoes, bags, and random bits I refuse to part with.
Tip: If you’re working with an awkward layout, IKEA’s storage section will change your life—they have smart solutions for literally every kind of small-space problem.
Final Thoughts
I used to think my flat was too small to ever feel stylish or functional. But with a few budget-friendly décor swaps, clever storage, and a little creativity, it’s become my favourite place in the world (Clarkie agrees, though I suspect that’s just because of the extra dog beds).
If you’re struggling to make a tiny space work, don’t give up! Small spaces just need big ideas—and sometimes, a fresh coat of paint.
