“We used to hang out in my studio apartment, play music and dream about being rock stars.” – Kyle Gass

From your first apartment to your fifth, living with less space is just a part of renting. But if you think there’s nothing you can do about this problem—short of moving out, that is—you’re mistaken.

It’s time to stop throwing down any old sofa and coffee table and calling it good. Decorating for a small space rather than against it can help you maximize seating, increase floor space, and improve how you feel when relaxing at home. Plus, it’ll make your apartment living room look better than ever before.

Keep reading to learn how to bring some of the best small living room ideas to life, so you can save space and start enjoying the benefits of living in a small apartment.

See more about – The Top 70 Living Room Decor Ideas

1. Contemporary Small Apartment Living Room Ideas

Contemporary decor highlights the day’s current trends, meaning it is ever-changing. One of the trendier styles you might stumble across right now, popularized by social media users, is called “dark academia.”

Source: @casamiasage via Instagram

Source: @karlosdamakeupartistt via Instagram

Source: @meandmrhughes via Instagram

Source: @tiffanyjanellcreativestudio via Instagram

Creating a dark accent wall can lend a bit of moodiness to the space without making your living room feel too dim or claustrophobic. Keep the rest of your walls white to emphasize the contrast.

Natural wood grain, in the form of furniture, flooring, or decor pieces, will add to the room’s warmth. The same is true for cast-iron fixtures.

Rich leather upholstery is masculine and creates incredible contrast when paired with soft throw pillows, blankets, or even an area rug. Try out a combination of a loveseat and smaller chairs to get the most out of your living room’s limited square footage.