Amber Lewis Reveals the Top Design Misstep in Compact Living Spaces

UpdatedSep 25, 2019 4:17 PM EDT

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs.

Domino Shopping: Worth-It Deals, Editor Picks, and Gift Guides

Join us for a weekly shopping trip right in your inbox.

Amber Lewis has all but defined the California-cool aesthetic, building a devoted following that includes design-conscious homeowners and celebrities alike. As the founder of a premier interior design firm, a widely read lifestyle blog, and a curated online shop, her expertise is well established. So when we sought her guidance on making compact-apartment living feel elevated, she delivered with conviction. The single most common misstep? "They end up using furniture that's too small," she notes—a philosophy that mirrors the advice Nate Berkus has also shared. When two of the industry's most respected designers align on a principle, it deserves attention. Discover Lewis's additional strategies for transforming even the most modest of floor plans.

This principle is intuitive yet deceptively difficult to execute. In compact living environments, storage solutions are perpetually on display, meaning they must function simultaneously as decorative elements. "Declutter, declutter, declutter," Lewis advises. "I am loving this Marie Kondo era, even though I can be a bit of a hoarder myself." Her recommendation: woven baskets, which serve the dual purpose of concealing everyday items while introducing rich tactile texture to any corner of a room.

Perhaps the most persistent small-space misconception is that deep, dramatic wall colors are off-limits. If you're drawn to the idea of a matte black kitchen in your rental, pursue it—just be diligent about priming first. "I use dark paints in powder rooms, and I think it's the perfect dramatic look," Lewis notes, proving that rich hues can create sophisticated depth rather than visual shrinkage.

Don't overlook the untapped design potential above eye level. Walls and ceilings represent two of the most underutilized surfaces in any home, offering prime territory for creative expression. "Instead of using a floor lamp, look into a hanging light or sconces," suggests the designer. She also favors wall-mounted hooks, selecting refined options (like this oak peg rail) to keep throw blankets and outerwear elegantly off the floor.

When square footage allows, incorporate shelving to draw the eye upward. Lewis's editorial guidance: "I like to say 'never put anything smaller than an apple on the shelf,' as it's too tiny and will look cluttered." The rule ensures each displayed object carries visual weight and intentionality.

Studio residents in particular understand the necessity of adaptability in every furnishing. Ideally, your dining surface doubles as a workspace and kitchen prep station. The challenge, however, lies in finding multi-functional pieces that don't compromise on design integrity. According to Lewis, the solution begins with seating.

She advocates for ottomans that transition seamlessly between seating and coffee table duty, and poufs that can be repositioned effortlessly throughout a space. A sturdy cube can even serve as a refined nightstand alternative. It simply requires a measure of inventive thinking.

Elly enjoys covering anything from travel to funky design (tubular furniture, anyone?) to the latestcultural trend. Her dream apartment would exist on the Upper West Side and include a plethora of mismatched antique chairs, ceramic vessels, and floor-to-ceiling bookcases—essential to her goal of becoming a poor man’s Nora Ephron. You can probably find her in line at Trader Joe’s. You will never find her at SoulCycle.

Learn more about Domino.comEditorial Standards