One of my favorite things to do when I was younger was watch design shows, especially the ones that had episodes that discussed how to deliver a one-two punch of functionality and form in a small space. From those shows, I learned that in small spaces – and especially in studio apartments – you need to define areas based on their functions.

Apparently, doing so will make even a teensy space feel big.

Keeping this in mind, I made a list of the things I wanted to do in my apartment, and planned the space accordingly. I wanted a place to chill/read magazines/watch TV. I definitely wanted a place specifically for sleep, and not a futon sofa. I needed storage for my books and clothes. And I definitely needed a nice place to study and blawg.

As a result, the living area was divided into three corresponding spaces: a place to study, a place to sleep and a place to watch TV/catch up on the Jon and Kate tabloid fiasco. Take a look. (Note: sketch is not to scale)

Moving involved two days. The first day was devoted to putting stuff in the already-existing shelf space. Day two involved bringing in the bigger pieces of furniture. And thanks to The Boyfriend, my mom, dad and brother, things got moved in fairly quickly. Here are the results! (Click through the mosaic to get to my “Moving In” photoset on Flickr for more details on what went into the space!)

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