Apartment Design Ideas for Studio, Loft, Duplex, Japandi and Small Spaces You Will Love

Designing an apartment that reflects your personality while making the most of your square footage is both an art and a science. Whether you’re transforming a 40 sqm studio, decorating a duplex, or styling a tiny 10 sqm studio, the possibilities are endless. This paper goes through the painstakingly selected concepts that you can use to acquire inspiration in your living room, bedroom or even that mindful shortlet campaign. We’ve drawn on expert insights from design influencers and stylists to bring you practical and visually stunning ideas that fit modern lifestyles.

1. Japandi Serenity for Compact Studios

The Japandi studio style merges Scandinavian warmth with Japanese minimalism—ideal for a 21 sqm studio or small studio layout. Its clean lines, light wood accents and light muted earth tones give this design a sense of calm that allows the space to be maximized. It’s perfect for those who crave modern, clutter-free living that still feels welcoming. According to stylist Chris Carroll of The Life Creative, Japandi is “a timeless antidote to over-decorated trends,” especially in tiny apartments.

2. Split-Level Charm in a Duplex Layout

A duplex apartment offers distinct zoning between your public and private life, even in 50 sqm or 55m2 spaces. Multi-storey idea will enable you to leave your bedroom upstairs and leave the living room open and airy. Include a floating staircase or spiraling design to make use of space. Architectural Digest suggests emphasizing verticality with suspended lighting to accentuate the structure.

3. Biophilic Design for Natural Connection

Biophilic design isn’t just trendy—it’s proven to boost mental health. Plant an indoor garden, use bamboo accessories, leave-covered vertical planters and rock-like walls. Such a small studio as 10 sqm may also have some hanging plants or a more natural level light system with a mirror. Inspired by Terrapin Bright Green’s studies, biophilic touches increase comfort in compact urban dwellings.

4. Shortlet-Ready Interiors with Universal Appeal

Designing a shortlet apartment requires neutral tones, durable furniture, and a smart layout to appeal to diverse guests. Think hotel-suite minimalism meets homey touches. The 1b1b plan will be able to sparkle with smart storage and color signals of the brand. Interior stylist Athena Calderone recommends timeless elements like linen curtains and warm lighting to enhance short-term rental aesthetics.

5. Open Concept Living in a 40 Sqm Studio

A 40 sqm studio is the sweet spot for an open plan that doesn’t feel cramped. Divide the space visibly through use of area rugs, open shelves and glass partitions. Make the kitchen, living room and bedroom integrated yet separated. Inspired by IKEA hacks and modular furniture, this style offers flexibility and flow.

6. Studio Loft with Industrial Edge

The studio loft aesthetic leans into raw textures—exposed brick, black metal, and polished concrete. 35m 2 or 50 square meters office is turned into a modern oasis consisting of some industrial pendant lights with high ceilings. Design blogger Emily Henderson recommends layering soft textures like velvet or faux fur to balance the edginess.

7. Acnh-Inspired Whimsy for Playful Personalization

Inspired by the wildly popular Animal Crossing: New Horizons (acnh), this design idea transforms a 12 sqm studio or small studio into a cozy and playful escape. Use pastel tones, vintage furnishings, and layered lighting. According to gaming lifestyle blogger Kelsey Impicciche, ACNH-style interiors promote creativity and personalization.

8. 2-Bedroom Loft with Urban Sophistication

A 2 bedroom loft offers both function and flair. Leave the master bedroom to be airy and use glass partitions and create that second bedroom as a study or nursery. Select layers of lights and black matte background to give a stylish modern appearance. This layout is ideal for families or roommates who appreciate ideas that balance privacy and connection.

9. Tiny Studio with Big Functionality

Designing a 20 sqm studio or tiny space requires maximum efficiency. Use wall-mounted desks, murphy beds, and vertical storage. Use a black and white color scheme to make the space seem bigger. Interior influencer Shavonda Gardner swears by multifunctional furniture to help small spaces “live larger.”

10. Modern Duplex with Japandi Fusion

Blend modern lines with Japandi textures in a two-storey duplex for a tranquil yet bold atmosphere. Incorporate dark wood, light stone, and clean architectural framing. The more anonymous ground level is used as a breezy social space, and the bedroom above it is the sanctuary. Referencing Sebastian Cox’s work with deVOL, this layout exemplifies timeless craftsmanship.

11. 1Bedroom Minimalist Oasis for Singles or Couples

A 1bedroom apartment can be transformed into a minimalist retreat by embracing clean lines, white walls, and functional furniture. This design is appropriate in singles or couples who are looking to escape the hustle and bustles with no unwarranted complexity. Apply a low color range as well as apply the concealed storage solutions. As Marie Kondo notes, the key is designing around joy and function—especially when space is limited.

12. Scandinavian Style in a 50 Sqm Layout

With a 50 sqm apartment, you have just enough space to introduce Scandinavian charm—light colors, cozy textures, and smart storage. A small living room with a sort of fold-out bedroom area will make it look bigger. Hygge expert Meik Wiking recommends layering light sources and textiles for comfort.

13. 35m2 Retro Revival for Nostalgia Lovers

A 35m2 apartment becomes a cheerful throwback with mid-century furniture, geometric prints, and vintage accents. This functional yet nostalgic space design is good for people not after fad. Think record players, hairpin-leg tables, and warm woods. It’s a playful departure from cold modernism.

14. Japandi-Inspired 10 Sqm Studio for Digital Nomads

A 10 sqm studio doesn’t need to feel confining. Use Japandi elements—neutral palettes, built-in furniture, and vertical storage. Create zones for sleeping, working, and relaxing. This style is ideal for remote workers who value calm in small spaces.

15. Dual Functionality in a 2 Rooms Layout

In 2 rooms apartments, create clear separation between activity and rest. The living room starts to play the role of entertaining and working and the bedroom is used exclusively for relaxation. Use color-blocking or room dividers to define areas. Interior stylist Orlando Soria advocates boundaries to avoid burnout at home.

16. Urban Edge in a 55m2 Loft

A 55m2 loft gives you room to play with industrial-modern elements: exposed pipes, concrete walls, and large black-framed windows. Create depth with layered lighting and textural contrast. This style is great for creatives who want an open, inspiring layout with bold aesthetics.

17. 12 Sqm Studio with Space-Saving Genius

A 12 sqm studio pushes creativity. Use folding tables, lofted beds, and rolling storage. Bright colors and mirrors make it feel expansive. Influencer Erin Boyle suggests prioritizing vertical over horizontal space in ultra-compact homes.

18. ACNH Cottagecore for Cozy Escapism

Inspired by acnh, embrace cottagecore in your tiny apartment. Artificial floral wallpaper, wicker decorations, and homemade crafts are used to create a nostalgic warm atmosphere. This aesthetic works beautifully in studio setups and appeals to dreamers who want their space to feel like a storybook.

19. Elevated Living in a Storey Loft

A storey loft layout lets you build vertically. Put the sleeping areas on the upper level and the social areas on the ground. Use glass or metal to keep light flowing. Architect Leandro Erlich recommends transparency and contrast to maintain openness in stacked layouts.

20. Modern 1b1b with Hotel Vibes

Transform your 1b1b apartment into a luxury modern suite. Think rich textures, oversized mirrors, and mood lighting. Make bedrooms relaxing and allow the living room to be illuminated with statement furniture. This approach blends comfort with upscale design.

21. Soft Minimalism for a 20 Sqm Studio

A 20 sqm studio flourishes with soft minimalism—natural fabrics, low furniture, and an earthy palette. This style embraces peace and simplicity while maintaining elegance. Influencer Sarah Sherman Samuel emphasizes warmth through tone-on-tone design in small dwellings.

Conclusion

Creating a well-designed apartment—be it a shortlet, studio, or 2 rooms loft—is a deeply personal process. Hopefully, these ideas sparked your imagination, whether you’re working with 35m2 or just a 10 sqm studio. We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments! Which styles speak to you? Did you use one of these sets or can you share some? Let’s inspire one another with thoughtful, livable design.