Tiny Spaces: A Tiny Home Built Out of Recycled Materials

1. Think multipurpose. Nicole said that the key to coping in a small space is to buy things that you can use more than one way. You definitely won’t find a lot of unwanted clutter in this minimalist space, where everything has a place.

2. DIY is the best way. Like all couples who are moving in together for the first time, there was some adjusting that had to be done — mainly the addition of a closet for Nicole. Since they were working with an unusual space, Donnie and Nicole chose to DIY the whole thing. And hats off to Nicole for fitting everything she has into this closet. Capsule wardrobe, anyone?

3. Mirrors will double your square footage. See that wall of mirrors on the left? Yep, that’s Nicole’s closet, cleverly disguised. After building the closet, the couple ended up covering the whole thing in mirrors to help make the space feel bigger and brighter.

4. Be brave about your organization. In the search for a more open floor plan, the couple actually got rid of one of their closets (gasp!) and opened up the entryway. All you really need in a foyer is a place to kick off your shoes and store your sunglasses, right?

5. Don’t fixate on “normal” spaces. Sure, a dining room is nice to have when you’re entertaining, but do you use it every day? Instead of taking up valuable space with a massive table for the two of them, Nicole and Donnie opted for a fold-down table and a bench that doubles as storage shelves.

6. Raise the bed. If you’ve got it, flaunt it. Ceiling height, that is. If adding a loft is an option for you, a raised bedroom can save you a ton of floor space and give you room underneath for a home office or guest area.

7. Make Murphy beds cool again. A guest room? In a studio apartment?? Yep, totally possible — just ask this couple. The addition of a loft created an extra space that works quadruple duty as a workspace, storage closet, dining room and guest room.

8. Think vertical. Standing desks are a brilliant solution for a small apartment. You can still have your workspace without filling up your entire apartment with desks and chairs — plus, it’s way better for your health.

9. Raise (and lower) the barstools. Instead of splurging on desk chairs, dining chairs and bar stools, Nicole and Donnie chose adjustable stools that can easily transition from the kitchen bar to the dining room table and the desk space. It’s nice to have options when you get tired of standing ;)

10. Lucite is your BFF. It’s easy for a small space to start feeling cluttered rather quickly. Nicole and Donnie solved this problem by using clear barstools that can be moved around the room and clear storage boxes that are in sync with the light and minimal aesthetic of the couple’s studio.

11. Don’t let the TV dictate the room arrangement. In this space, a good ol’ Netflix binge starts with the quick pull-down of a projector screen. There’s no bulky TV to dictate where the chairs are situated, and you get an enviable home theater with zero floor space sacrificed. Brilliant.

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Instead of settling for the usual space-sucking studio floor plan (tiny studio, big closet), Donnie and Nicole designed their own loft. By tearing down the closet (gasp!), they were able to build their own personalized storage/living/dining/sleeping/work space. And not only does it look good, but it is uber functional and ready to accommodate everything from overnight guests to a dinner party.

Besides having their entertaining bases covered, Donnie and Nicole have hidden storage on lock. Donnie built Nicole a wall-length closet to keep all of her shoes (seriously, just look at that collection!), clothes, bits and baubles organized. The giant mirror doors serve a dual purpose for getting ready and opening up the tiny space.

The best part about Nicole and Donnie’s studio has to be all the transforming furniture built into and around their loft. They added a murphy bed so guests have a place to stay or just in case they need an afternoon nap zone. Instead of letting their low square footage hinder their table space, they use a store-away folding dining table for weeknight meals or afternoon work sessions. Who knew so many living spaces could fit into one tiny loft?

Nicole and Donnie even have their Netflix binge time figured out. Talk about a multi-purpose space all around!

Whether you’re looking to build your own personalized loft or just want to see how Donnie and Nicole managed to fit so much stuff and living areas into one tiny space, the video below will inspire you to gut your entire apartment and get to woodworking.

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Cherry Duo Valentine's Day Figurine

This $5 figurine gives us so much joy. It'd be perfect on your desk, bedside table, or car dash to keep the love flowin' this V-Day.

Metallic Hearts Wall Garland

Got a Valentine's party planned? This $10 wall garland is just the thing your space needs to feel a bit more festive.

Valentine's Day Disco Ball

Everyone needs a dash of disco in their life, and this $10 heart-shaped piece makes that possible. We'd keep this one up year-round!

Valentine's Day XO Love Pillow

It's not V-Day without a bunch of X's and O's! Decorate your space appropriately with this cutesy $5 pillow.

Coffee & Croissant Valentine's Day Figurine

This $5 decor piece would also make a great gift to give your partner, BFF, or just the person that completes you.

Light-Up Valentine's Day Hearts

These heart-shaped lights mimic conversation heart candies in the cutest (and cheekiest!) way with various sayings.

3-Wick Sugared Watermelon Candle

This candle makes the season even sweeter with a delicious sugared watermelon scent.

Featherly Friends 'Toots' Valentine's Day Decorative Object

Target's collection of cute spirited birds is everything. This lil' birdie comes complete with a love letter – ooh!

Red Lips Pillow

Need a smooch? This $10 pillow is just what your couch is craving!

Glass Heart Valentine's Candle Holders

Set the mood at the table with this adorable trio of candle stick holders in the perfect V-Day hues!

Cherub Valentine's Day Figurine

This glasses-wearing cherub would look so cute on your desk during the Valentine's season.

Pink & Red Taper Candle Set

These playful candle sticks come in squiggly shapes and are adorably dotted in tiny white hearts for the holiday.

XO Square Valentine's Day Pillow

Perfect for the sofa or your bed, this plush pillow will last your V-Day decor game for years to come!