Making a Micro-Unit Work For You.Just because a space is small doesn’t mean that it can’t be stylish and functional. Here are some quick design tips that can help optimize the available square feet in a micro-unit.

Invest in dual-purpose furniture. Couches that turn into beds and coffee tables that turn into desks are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to innovative furniture that can do more than meets the eye. If you’re looking at pricier options, just make sure that it’s an item you would use outside of a micro-apartment too.

Play around with color. Light paint colors help make a room feel larger, so skip the dark paint if you’re able to customize your unit. From there, you can use texture and color contrasts to build dimension into the room.

Go for a loft bed. Elevate your bed and turn the space underneath into a seating, dining, or office area. Not only does this greatly increase your space, it can also be preferable to having to remake your bed every night like you might have to do with a pull-out.

Get creative with storage. Don’t fill every spare foot with storage (after all, you do still need to be able to walk around), but do try to take advantage of extra storage space wherever you can, such as behind the couch and on top of the fridge.

Have less stuff. Instead of trying to fit a ton of stuff into a small space, limit what you bring in the first place. We could all probably do with fewer belongings, so before you move go through your things and donate, toss, or recycle anything that you no longer have a use for. After you move in, you might find that you can do with even less.

A big benefit of a micro-apartment is that you don’t have to spend a lot to make it all your own. Have fun with your decorating and play around with color and art. There’s a ton of opportunity to let your personality shine.