Tiny Spaces: An SF Couple’s Stylish Loft Studio

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.

Want even more decor ideas for your small space? Check back here for more Tiny Spaces and follow us on Pinterest for tips, tricks and hacks for all your tiny living challenges.

1. Make use of the space above your cabinets. Amy made full use of the space above her kitchen cabinets to store her cookbooks. As she pointed out, if you don’t use something every day, it doesn’t matter if it’s a little out of reach. Just make sure you keep a step stool on hand so you can grab them when you need them. Counters work too.

2. Don’t be afraid to add personality. Just because it’s a tiny kitchen doesn’t mean you can’t bring in some playful accessories. Minimalism is nice when it comes to small spaces, but it’s not the only answer. Just take note from Amy, who wasn’t afraid to mount a wood deer head front and center in her mini galley kitchen. Framed art above the cabinets is another genius idea to add color and style.

3. Keep your totes handy. The number one thing a tiny kitchen is missing is lots of storage space. Instead of stuffing your tote bag collection in a much-needed drawer, hang them under the cabinets where they can double as art. Plus, maybe having them in a high-visibility area will help you remember to take them with you more often.

4. Show off your mugs. Amy’s kitchen is a great example of how to use every square inch to your advantage. Here, she takes advantage of the empty space underneath a shelf to hang her adorable mug collection on a mounted coat rack.

5. Mount those wall shelves. Floating shelves = more surface area. A wall of open shelving is fun and functional and perfect for all types of spaces. This brilliant hack adds a mix of open lighting and varied structural elements so you can see exactly what you have at a glance.

6. Use pretty storage. Opt for colorful pitchers, quirky canisters and fun storage options to store all your utensils and kitchen hardware. If you’re renting, painting is usually not an option, so accessories are the next best way to incorporate your signature style into the space. Plus, being able to put your prettiest dishes on display doubles as decor.

7. Skip the curtains. Natural light is your best friend, especially if your kitchen is dark and narrow. Let in all the light possible and ditch the heavy curtains. If you’re worried about privacy, go for a simple blind instead.

8. Take your greenery to the next level. Plants are practically a must-have, but if you don’t have space for a giant fiddle leaf fig tree, it’s time to take your pots vertical. Hang mini planters around the windows and they’ll be more than happy to clean your air for you.

9. Hide your workspace. Amy’s favorite piece of furniture in her tiny apartment is her computer armoire. The doors open up completely so she can work in a well-lit space and hang plenty of inspo inside the cabinets via magnetic strips. But then when she’s done, all she has to do is close it up and the whole room looks more tidy and “put away.”

10. Think clear. Clear containers will up your organization game. Amy mentioned that she prefers storing things she uses every day in transparent containers so she can see what’s inside them. Instead of hunting around for the ever-elusive desk accessories, keep them mounted right on the wall for maximum efficiency.

Watch the full tour below and check out the rest of the series here.

Want more decor ideas for your small space? Check back here for more Tiny Spaces and follow us on Pinterest for tips, tricks and hacks for all your tiny living woes.

Vegan Mini Chocolate Pies with Pecan Caramel

Mini pies are the perfect Christmas dessert because they're hand-held and bite-sized, plus these feature chocolate, pecan, and caramel flavors! They're also vegan, which just makes us love them even more. (via Brit + Co)

Easy Puppy Chow Recipe

You probably already have everything you need for this DIY dessert recipe: peanut butter (or another nut butter), chocolate chips, Chex cereal, butter, and powdered sugar. The red and green candies are just a bonus! (via Brit + Co)

The Best Sugar Cookies

These sugar cookies are so good, they don't really need any embellishments, but would it really be a Christmas party without reindeer cookies?! Save a few to leave out for Santa, too. (via Brit + Co)

Oreo Red Velvet Cheesecake

If you love red velvet cake and you love cheesecake, then this is the dessert for you. The crust, cheesecake filling, and whipped cream come together beautifully so that every bite you take is better than the last! Plus, the Oreos on top are the perfect finishing touch. (via Brit + Co)

Paleo Christmas Cookies

Cookies will never be totally healthy, but there are definitely ways that you can make them healthier. Check out this easy Christmas dessert that's paleo-friendly. (via Brit + Co)

Eggnog French Toast

Have breakfast for dessert by adding eggnog to your French toast batter. It adds just the right amount of spice to the recipe and makes it creamy and smooth. (via Brit + Co)

Sweet Chai Latte Cupcakes

Turn your favorite morning beverage into a sweet treat with these cupcakes. The flavors and spices make for the perfect holiday season dessert. (via Brit + Co)

Peppermint Macarons with White Chocolate Ganache

Find a new way to enjoy the minty flavor of peppermint with this macarons recipe. Covered in white chocolate, it's a nod to the traditional French pastry. (via Brit + Co)

Chocolate Pumpkin Tart with Gingersnap Crust

Move over white chocolate ganache, because this pumpkintart is ready for its turn in the spotlight. We love that the gingersnap crust helps balance the rich taste of dark chocolate. (via Brit + Co)

Puff Pastry Apple Roses

These roses look good enough to eat – because they are indeed edible! It's the one time you'll enjoy stopping to smell the roses. (via Brit + Co)

Vegan Apple Cake

If puff pastry apple roses feel like too much of a lite dessert, you'll want to keep this vegan apple cake recipe handy. (via Brit + Co)

Baked Hot Chocolate Doughnuts

We have a *major* sweet tooth for anything that involves gooey chocolate, so combining our love of doughnuts and hot chocolate sounds like a dream come true. (via Brit + Co)

Frozen Chocolate Peanut Butter Yogurt Cups

Take a break from traditional Christmas desserts and make candy recipes instead! Who knows, someone may request that you make frozen chocolate peanut butter yogurt cups for their birthday next year. (via Brit + Co)

Eggnog with Sugared Rosemary

Who says desserts have to be food? This sweet drink is a classic Christmas dessert, whether you're decorating the tree or curling up for a movie night. Our favorite detail is definitely the sugared rosemary. (via Brit + Co)

Mini Gingerbread Cheesecakes

If regular slices of cheesecake are too rich for you, try these mini bite-sized options for your next get-together. They're a little bit spicy, a little bit sweet, and just the right amount of creamy. (via Brit + Co)

Even Santa Will Want A Bite Of These Christmas Desserts!

Peppermint Bark Cannoli

You just can’t get through the snowy season without indulging in some sweet and cool peppermint bark. No surprise, it's amazing in cannolis. (via Sugar and Cloth)

Mott's Gingerbread Cups

These lil cups are a fun, festive, and fabulous treat to make with and for your little ones — or for anyone else, frankly! Just look how cute they are! (via Mott's)

Rum and Eggnog Bundt Cake

We like big bundts and we cannot lie; a slice of this, we can't deny! Flavored with rum and eggnog, this luscious cake is slathered with a generous coating of eggnog cream cheese icing that will make your tastebuds sing. (via Liv for Cake)

Eggnog Cheesecake Brownies

With creamy eggnog cheesecake swirling into fudgy goodness, these brownies will make even eggnog naysayers fall in love with the soft and chewy bites. (via A Cookie Named Desire)

Chocolate Peppermint Bundt Cake

We know you’re thinking it because we’re thinking it — be still, my heart! This rich, minty, and chocolatey cake is dripping with glaze and topped with crushed candy canes. Can you say flavor bomb? (via Two Peas & Their Pod)

Champagne Donuts With White Chocolate Glaze

One of the best things about donuts is they can be enjoyed as both a dessert *and* as a sweet breakfast option. The Champagne-infused dough and white chocolate glaze create the ultimate holiday treat. (via Sugar and Cloth)

Apple and Mincemeat Filo Wreath

This swoon-worthy recipe stuffs crisp apples and mincemeat into a flaky filo pastry, resulting in complete dessert heaven. Adorned with cranberries and drizzled with custard, this treat is guaranteed to be a hit at any holiday party. (via Domestic Gothess)

Mexican Wedding Cookies

These tiny snowballs are slightly salty, nutty, buttery, and downright delish. (via Two Peas & Their Pod)

Cranberry Dark Chocolate Biscotti

We hope you’re ready for additional caffeine, because you’ll be brewing an extra cup a day just for an excuse to dip and devour these beauties. Totally addicting, these munchies are packed with nuts and cranberries and drizzled with chocolate. (via Pinch of Yum)

Homemade Marshmallows

Storebought marshmallows will never taste the same after you make these. Dip them in chocolate or add them to your hot cocoa for a truly decadent treat. (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Eggnog Panna Cotta with Spiked Cranberry Sauce

Silky smooth panna cotta may seem like a summery dessert, but when made with eggnog and topped with orange liqueur-spiked cranberry sauce, it's completely festive. (via Sprinkle Bakes)

You Won't Want To Share These Delicious Christmas Desserts

White Christmas Sparkle Cake

If you prefer snowflakes and twinkly lights to bright red and green decorations, you'll love this fluffy vanilla almond cake with cream cheese frosting. (via How Sweet Eats)

You Won't Believe How Tasty These Christmas Desserts Are

Meringue Christmas Wreath Cake

But if you do love colorful decorations, opt for this wreath cake, decked out with nonpareils and candy canes. (via Sprinkle Bakes)

Holiday Sugar Cookie Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Instead of rolling out dough to make individual cookies, bake up these bars, and have fun making your own sprinkle design on top. (via Averie Cooks)

Marmalade Thumbprint Cookies

It truly isn’t the holidays without some jam-filled thumbprint cookies to munch on. Though a berry jam is most commonly used, the choice of this orange jam is brilliant. (via The View From Great Island)

Christmas Tree Mousse Cups

You don't have to be an artist to make an adorable tree-shaped dollop of mousse in these chocolate cups. (via My Life Cookbook)

Peppermint Cream Puffs

Bite-size cream puffs are the ideal treat, and with a light peppermint ganache and festive sprinkles, they're holiday-ready. (via Best Friends for Frosting)

Chocolate Peppermint Mousse

We love how fluffy mousse is, and this Christmas dessert (which only needs four ingredients, FYI!!) mixes in peppermint extract for the perfect seasonal flavor. Add some crushed candy canes on top for an extra cute detail. (via Feel Good Foodie)

Funfetti Christmas Cake Roll

Don't be intimidated by the cylindrical shape; this colorful cake is both easy to bake and easy to roll up while hot. (via Passion for Savings)

Italian Pear Cranberry Tart

If the cranberry sauce at your Thanksgiving dinner didn’t satisfy your cranberry needs, this festive tart will. Fresh cranberries are piled into a shortbread crust over a luscious layer of almond cream, and it’s kind of the best thing ever. (via Just a Little Bit of Bacon)

Viennese Crescent Cookies

Popular in Austria, these melt-in-your-mouth Christmas cookies are a simple blend of hazelnuts, butter, and powdered sugar. (via Leite's Culinaria)

We'd Recommend These Christmas Desserts To Everyone

Mincemeat, Marzipan, and Apple Bread Wreath

Filled with mincemeat, marzipan, and apricot jam, this impressive buttery wreath is packed with flavor. And since it's fruity, you can get away with eating it for breakfast. (via Domestic Gothess)

Sugar Cookie Chocolate Crème Brûlée

Have more Christmas cookies than you know what to do with? Use them to top these velvety, chocolate-rich crème brûlées. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Gingerbread Bundt Cake

If you want to get real fancy, haul out your bundt cake pan and try this recipe. The patterned cake looks even more impressive when laden with a shiny glaze. (via The View From Great Island)

Slice and Bake Heart Cookies

These heart-shaped cookies are so much easier to make than you'd think. Impress your Christmas guests with a bout of sugar cookies! (via Crowded Kitchen)

Tahini Brownies

If you can't handle full-on sweetness, try these brownies that mix in some tahini for a nutty flavor addition. The flaky salt on top adds an edge that you do not want to miss out on. (via Forks and Foliage)

Vegan Peanut Butter Blossoms

Is there a better duo than chocolate and peanut butter? These blossoms feature creamy peanut butter and dark chocolate chips for a rich, smooth take on the classic combo. (via Rachel Mansfield)

Olive Oil Orange Cake

This citrusy, just slightly olive-oily cake will brighten up your winter diet, and the touch of Grand Marnier makes it taste extra-elegant. (via Averie Cooks)

Hazelnut Shortbread with Salted Ganache Sandwich Cookies

Okay, regular Oreos. We raise you one with these uniquely delicious (and super festive!) homemade sandwich cookies! (via Vanilla and Bean)

Sugar Dusted Donut Christmas Tree by Chef Genevieve LaMonaca

For this delicious Christmas dessert, roll 60 (3lbs) white donut holes in 2.25oz green sugar sprinkles, then cover a 5.5 x 13.5-inch foam cone in plastic wrap. Insert your toothpicks (you'll need 60) into the foam, then push donut hole on the toothpick. Start from the bottom and work your way up. Add 1/2 cup peanut M&M’s to fill holes to resemble Christmas ornaments. Top with gold star cupcake topper. Cover with saran wrap until ready to use. Make up to 3 days ahead of time!