Just because the only property to rent that you could afford was a small flat doesn't mean that you have to feel crowded into your new home. Sleek styles of furniture, multitasking furniture and carefully chosen colours can make a small space feel like a palace. By following a few simple guidelines you can make your small space a very functional one.

The style of furniture that you choose for your small rental flat is very important. You want to choose furniture that is functional. When you live in a small space, less is more. The furniture you must have needs to be sleek and efficient. An overstuffed couch for example is not a good choice for a very small flat. It will take up too much precious space and you will find yourself cramped and uncomfortable. You may also want to leave the large dining table behind and opt for a smaller breakfast table instead.

One of the easiest ways to save space it to choose furniture that has more than one function. Using a small dresser as a bedside table is a great example this will eliminates the need for an entire piece of furniture. Another great useful piece is a coffee table with drawers underneath, the space under the coffee table is often wasted. And in a small rent al flat there is no room for waste. For very small efficiency flats a futon is a great way to save space. A futon can take the place of both your bed and couch. If a futon is not for you a loft bed will add a great deal of storage or can be placed right over the couch or dresser. Create more storage by using a chest or decorative box as a side table. Get creative and you will find that most of your furniture can have multiple uses.

Another way to add space is with colour. If the owner of your rent flat will allow you to paint the walls you should do so. If you cannot paint a tapestry hung on the wall can be used to add some. When deciding on a colour, choose a soft colour. Pale and neutral colours are good choices to create an open feel to the room. Dark colours like red, brown or blue should be avoided.

If you love dark colours uses them with your accessories but avoid putting them on the walls. Dark colours will make the room feel even smaller. If you enjoy patterns on the wall pick a wallpaper with a simple design and using vertical stripe will create the appearance of high ceilings.

Renting a small flat can save you a bundle every month, especially if you live in a crowded city. The lack of space can sometimes be hard to deal with but by choosing the right kind of furniture you can make a small living space seem like more than enough. It's all about creativity; take a step back and think to yourself, is my furniture as functional as it could be. If not it might be time to redecorate.