The Ultimate Guide To Small Apartment Renovation: Kitchen, Bathroom, Living Room Remodeling Ideas

Did you just rent a studio apartment, or are you a new homeowner looking to create your beautiful little space? Small apartments often mean dealing with cramped rooms, limited storage, and awkward layouts. But did you know - there are ways to make your tiny space feel more functional, stylish & open?

You read that right! Even the smallest spaces can become comfortable, efficient, and beautiful homes! Wanna know how? We created this guide packed with small apartment renovation ideas that are practical, affordable, quick, and tailored to real-life situations.

This guide is packed with clever small apartment renovation ideas that are practical, affordable, and tailored to real-life situations. Let’s explore inspiring studio apartment renovation ideas that show how you can reimagine your layout, improve lighting, and add storage with little layout tweaks and smart hardware choices!

Let’s dive in!

Small Kitchen Remodeling Ideas That You Must Try!

Let’s start with the kitchen - the most important space in your apartment!

The perfect small kitchen remodel plan would prioritize functionality along with aesthetics. The magic in the details! Choosing the right layout plays an important role, but it is the right hardware that makes the biggest difference!

Here are creative tips to help you make the most of your small kitchen remodel.

Optimize Your Layout for Efficiency

A good layout boosts the functionality of your kitchen while making it look organized & appealing. It ensures that all the prepping, cooking, and cleaning can be done smoothly!

Here are a few popular layouts for a small kitchen:

Galley Kitchen

Ideal for narrow kitchens, the galley layout features two parallel countertops with a walkway in between.

• Efficient for solo cooking.
• Slim cabinet hardware helps maintain a streamlined look.
• Keeps all your work zones close together, minimizing unnecessary movement.

L-Shaped Kitchen

The L-shaped layout is best for small and medium kitchen spaces. It opens up one side, which makes the space feel larger.

• Separates prep, cook, and clean zones for better flow.
• Works well with open floor plans.
• Pair it with modern, low-profile cabinet handles to save space and enhance aesthetics.

U-Shaped Kitchen

Need more storage and counter space? U-shaped kitchens wrap around three walls, making them perfect for serious home cooks in tight spaces.

• Defines clear zones for cooking, prepping, and cleaning.
• Great for adding built-in appliances.
• Use under-cabinet lighting to brighten the workspace without taking any extra space.

One-Wall Kitchen

One-wall kitchens are common in studio apartments or compact homes. Everything - appliances, cabinets, and countertops- lines up against one wall.

• Saves space while maintaining function.
• You can use open shelves or vertical storage to maximize wall space.
• Add a rolling island or foldable table for extra prep room.

Maximize Kitchen Storage with Space-Saving Hardware

Not adding enough storage is one of the worst mistakes people make while designing their kitchen. It makes the kitchen look cluttered and difficult to use. It is important to add the right cabinets and hardware to make your kitchen look organized.

Smart Cabinet Hardware

These smart cabinet hardware products are no less than quick hacks to make your kitchen look elegant and spacious.

• Pull-Out Shelves: Make deep cabinets more accessible. Further, you can add an aesthetic touch by installing decorative cabinet pulls.
• Corner Cabinets: Add rotating trays or swing-out shelves to turn dead corners into smart storage.
• Undermount Drawer Slides: Offer full-extension access while creating a cleaner, more modern look.
• Slim Pulls and Knobs: Save physical and visual space while contributing to a sleek aesthetic.
• Magnetic or Push-to-Open Latches: Eliminate the need for handles - great for tight spaces.

Hidden & Vertical Storage Tricks

Even the smallest nooks can serve a purpose:

• Tall cabinets or open shelves for storing dishes and pantry items.
• Toe-kick drawers under lower cabinets for flat items like baking sheets.
• Tilt-out trays under the sink to keep sponges and scrubbers.
• Slim pull-out racks for spices or canned goods in narrow gaps.

Light and Color Make a Big Difference

A small kitchen doesn’t have to feel small. With a few visual tricks, you can make the space feel lighter, brighter, and more inviting.

Smart Design Moves

• Light-Colored Cabinets and Walls: Colors like white, gray, and pale neutrals reflect light and create a sense of openness.
• Glass Cabinet Doors or Open Shelving: Break up bulky upper cabinets and showcase your essentials.
• Reflective Surfaces: Stainless steel, glossy backsplashes, and shiny countertops bounce light around beautifully.

Smart Small Bathroom Renovation Ideas

Another space that can’t be ignored while remodeling your small apartment is the bathroom! Remodeling a small bathroom is challenging, considering both functionality & aesthetics are important. However, some tips and tricks with the right hardware are all you need to create a small yet luxurious bathroom.

Layout Design Ideas for Small Bathrooms

In small bathrooms, the layout is everything. A thoughtful configuration will keep your space open, organized, and functional.

Single-Wall Layout

Perfect for powder rooms or half-baths.

• Simple and efficient.
• Easy plumbing access.

3-in-a-Row Layout

The sink, toilet, and shower are placed in a straight line.

• Ideal for bathrooms with lengths greater than widths.

Corner Shower + Vanity Combo

This layout uses corners efficiently, freeing up central space.

• Great for tight layouts.
• Keeps the room feeling open and uncluttered.

Functional Tips for Small Bathroom Design

• There should be at least 24" walking clearance in front of fixtures.
• Use wall-mounted or floating vanities to free up floor space.
• Choose glass shower enclosures over curtains - they expand visual space.
• Add built-in shelves or niches for storage without adding bulk.

Choose the Right Fixtures & Vanities

When revamping your bathroom, you must pick the right fixtures. Wrong fixtures can overwhelm your space & spoil the overall feel of the space!

Here are some ways for you to pick the right fixtures for your small bathroom.

Space-Saving Vanity Options

• Wall-Mounted Vanities: Create the illusion of more space.
• Floating Vanities: Keep the floor clear and make cleaning easier.
• Corner Vanities: Perfect for unconventional layouts.

Toilets and Sinks That Fit

• Round-Bowl Toilets and Shallow Sinks help reduce depth.
• Wall-Hung Toilets: Open up the floor and look modern.
• Compact Pedestal Sinks: Great for powder rooms with limited space.

Small Tub & Shower Combos

• Alcove Tubs: Fit neatly between three walls.
• Shower-Tub Combos: Offer flexibility without needing two separate zones.
• Short Tubs: Some models start as small as 48"—perfect for tight bathrooms.

Use Glass to Open Up the Space

Glass helps maintain a clean, modern vibe while keeping things open and bright.

• Frameless Glass Shower Doors: Minimal lines, maximum light.
• Sliding Doors: Ideal where swing clearance is tight.
• Swing Doors: Better suited for slightly larger bathrooms.

Our range of shower door hardware will help you fix your glassware in your small bathroom.

Visual Tricks to Make It Feel Bigger

• Stick to light, cohesive color palettes.
• Use reflective finishes like polished tiles or chrome fixtures.
• Go for large-format tiles and continuous flooring to reduce segmentation.
• Add recessed niches and floating storage to minimize clutter.
• Huge Mirrors and layered lighting keep the room bright and welcoming.

Small Living Room Renovation Ideas

Now that you’re done with the bathroom & kitchen renovation, it’s time to amp up the room that welcomes your guests - your cozy living room. Here are some renovation ideas for a small living room that you must try!

Design Tips That Work

• Choose light, cohesive color schemes for walls and furniture.
• Use floating shelves with hidden brackets to save floor space.
• Opt for glass or acrylic shelving to reduce visual weight.
• Install sliding or folding doors to save room over swing doors.

Hidden Storage & Smart Lighting

• Add concealed hinges and soft-close drawer slides to keep things sleek and silent.
• Use under-seat storage or hidden compartments for blankets, remotes, and other living room essentials.
• Mount wall sconces to free up surface space and add ambient lighting.
• Highlight corners or décor with under-shelf LED strip lights or puck lighting.

Mirror & Glass Ideas

• Use decorative mirrors to reflect light and make the room feel more open.
• Install glass partitions or doors to separate zones without blocking the flow.

Basement Remodeling Ideas That Make a Difference

Don’t let your basement become wasted space. With the right layout and hardware, even a small basement can turn into a fully functional part of your home.

Functional Basement Remodel Tips

• Multi-Use Zones: Combine entertainment, work, and guest space with sliding doors or room dividers.
• Low-Profile Storage: Use wall-mounted cabinets or floating shelves with sleek drawer slides.
• Wall-Mounted Tool Storage: Pegboards and sturdy brackets keep tools organized without cluttering the floor.
• Compact Shelving & Hooks: Great for seasonal items, workout gear, or hobby materials.

Brighten It Up

• Use recessed or track lighting for low ceilings.
• Add mirrors to help reflect light and open the space visually.

Finished Small Basement Room Ideas

• Home Office Nooks: Floating desks and task lights are space-savers.
• Guest Rooms or Play Areas: Fold-out beds and sliding storage maximize space.
• Media Lounges: Mount TVs and organize wires with hidden cable channels.

Start Planning Your Small Apartment Renovation with DK Hardware Today

Renovating a small apartment doesn't mean you have to compromise on style, comfort, or functionality. Whether it’s a compact kitchen, a tight bathroom, or a cozy living room, you’re working with the right design choices and space-saving hardware can turn your small apartment into a luxurious one!

Need help choosing the right hardware or fixtures? Browse our expert-approved solutions to bring your dream apartment to life!