8 Best Things From IKEA For Small Apartments

1. BRIMNES CABINET

The BRIMNES cabinet is a classic! This cabinet has followed me from home to home. You can use this just about anywhere - an entry, kitchen, living space, bedroom, home office. I used it as a pantry and now use it (two of them) as a credenza for the home office

REASONS TO BUY:

• affordable as heck!  it's only $75 (here in the U.S.)
• functionally versatile - use in any space for any purpose and shelves are adjustable
• easy Ikea hack - add cane to the door fronts or change the pulls to make a statement
• works with many interior styles - modern, transitional, minimal, Scandi, Japandi, contemporary
• 3 color options - black, grey, and white

2. VITTSJÖ SHELF UNIT

You want to take advantage of vertical space in small apartments. A shelving unit will give you more storage, as well as opportunities for decorating. The VITTSJÖ unit is perfect because it looks more expensive than it looks! I definitely recommend the Tjena boxes for extra storage (and hiding clutter).

REASONS TO BUY:

• good for the wallet!  it's only $80 (here in the U.S.)
• versatile function - use in any space for any purpose
• dress up or down - keep it functional, make a styling moment, or both!
• add  boxes or baskets - the last thing we want is visual clutter in a small space so, boxes and baskets will help you organize the less-appealing items

3. SOCKERBIT STORAGE BOX

The space under the bed is VERY valuable! Let's face it though, it can get dusty down there. That is why I love the SOCKERBIT storage boxes. Not only are they slim enough to fit down there, but the bi-folding lids allow you to easily access your items. 

REASONS TO BUY:

• fits under most beds -  it's only 7.5" tall (19cm)
• versatile storage - use for shoes, seasonal wardrobe, holiday decor, etc.
• keeps your items clean - good-locking lid will keep the dust out!

4. FRIHETEN SOFA

This sofa is very mighty! Not only is it a sectional, but it also turns into a guest bed. Even further, the FRIHETEN sofa has built-in storage. My friend in college had this and it was comfortable, affordable, and aesthetically pleasing.

REASONS TO BUY:

• budget-friendly!  a $600 sofa (that doesn't suck) of this kind is almost unheard of
• versatile function - sofa, bed, and storage underneath
• multiple fabric options - go light, go dark, go bold
• sleek and modern - as expected from IKEA

5. NORDEN TABLE

This is the ultimate space-saving table! There are two types of people: ones that use the dining table and ones that don't. The Norden table is for both! It's great because it basically folds flat when not needed.

REASONS TO BUY:

• super space-saving! -  seats 2-4 people when needed and folds flat when not
• versatile function - use for dining or extra workspace
• drawers for days - more storage for linens, silverware, or random junk

6. PINNIG COAT RACK +  STORAGE BENCH

Small apartments or studios often lack coat closets. That is why you need the PINNIG rack. This will hold all your gear for going out. No more shoes all over the floor please! You can also use it for workout gear.

REASONS TO BUY:

•  space-saving! -  it definitely uses your vertical space
• versatile function - use for jackets, shoes, gym gear, and more
• very affordable - $89 (U.S.) is not bad for a rack this size!

7. GAMLEHULT OTTOMAN

An ottoman can go just about anywhere. The GAMLEHULT can introduce some storage while staying chic. The hand-woven rattan can work well with any Boho (among other styles) space.

REASONS TO BUY:

• built-in storage -  it definitely uses your vertical space
• versatile function - use as coffee table, accent table, ottoman
• hand-woven rattan - what's not to love?!

8. HYLLIS SHELF

We can't forget the outdoor space! If you have a small outdoor patio or balcony, this HYLLIS shelf
 will add some space for your plants! It is indoor/outdoor so you don't have to worry about corrosion. Don't have an outdoor space? Spray paint it (matte  black?!) and put it in inside for added storage. 

REASONS TO BUY:

• indoor/outdoor -  no corrosion, spray paint it for a custom color
• versatile function - a catching space for plants, or extra storage for your closets
• DIRT cheap - It starts at $9.99 (U.S.)