Frequently asked
Questions on the landing
The things readers ask us on the way in, answered briefly and without fuss.
How much furniture is too much for one room?
Keep a clear path of roughly 75 to 90 cm between the door and the main window. If you have to sidestep furniture to cross the room, something should go.
Is a wall bed worth it in a studio?
If you use the floor for more than sleeping, such as a desk, exercise or guests, usually yes. It must be fixed securely to the wall, so rental tenants should ask their landlord first. See the furniture chapter.
How do I make a studio feel like it has separate rooms?
Use one clear cue per zone: a rug, a shelf that faces away, a ceiling-track curtain, or a pool of lamplight. Three cues in one zone only add clutter. See the zoning chapter.
What is the best lighting colour for a small room?
Warm white between 2700 and 3000 K for evenings, on a dimmer, with bulbs rated CRI 90 or higher so colours look true. See the lighting chapter.
How can I reduce noise through a thin partition?
Add mass and soft surfaces: a full bookcase against the shared wall, a thick rug, lined curtains and door seals. White noise can mask what remains.
Can I hang storage in a rented studio?
Often yes, with permission. Ask in writing, and consider adhesive hooks rated for the load, tension rods in alcoves and over-door organisers. See the storage chapter.
Should I choose open or closed storage?
Mostly closed. Keep about eighty per cent behind doors and show only the twenty per cent you love.
Do you sell the products you write about?
No. We sell nothing and accept no payment for placement. We describe what has worked and what to check before buying. More on how we write.
Still wondering? Write to us and we will answer in the next essay.