1.
Choose "more than one purpose" style furniture.
A good example would be an ottoman that can be used for both a seat, a table and storage.
They even have coffee tables with drawers or ones that you can even play checkers on! How about that for multi-purpose?! 2.
Never buy anything oversized.
Your room will be claustrophobic by appearing smaller than it really is.
Look in the Children's Furniture Departments for a smaller version of dressers, chests, vanities, etc...
3.
Find a place to store everything.
Remember that saying "a place for everything and everything in its place"? Well, it couldn't fit better in this situation.
You know, the more clutter you have, the room will even look smaller.
Get your hands on those plastic containers that you can slide right under your bed.
You'll be surprised what you can store out of plain sight.
4.
When choosing colors for your apartment try keeping the colors within the same family of colors.
Stay away from huge patterns on sofas.
That would be devastating in a small room! 5.
Mirrors, Mirrors wherever you feel it is appropriate -- possibly on a far wall.
That will really widen up the room! 6.
Don't forget those accessories.
Use just enough to add a personal touch.
7.
Instead of a diningroom table, use kitchen counters with stools.
That's a real space-saver! Having a small area can be challenging when decorating.
You'll be totally surprised with all that you can do to make "a house a home" or an "apartment a home" -- even a small one! If you like that stool idea, search online for various types of barstools to give your place the look you desire.
Google barstools Pittsburgh or any area in which you live to find a reputable company with a huge selection.