It’s no secret that apartments in BostonNorth EndBack BayBeacon Hill area. For instance, the typical one bedroom in Beacon Hill is 635 SF according to 2011 data provided by our local multiple listing service. In the recent rental surge, renters are forced to live in smaller spaces. Long are the days of decorating in grand fashion. But fear not. Small spaces can be warm and inviting with just a few steps.

1. Change it up.

Although shopping right out of the Crate and Barrel or West Elm catalog can be fun and easy but maybe not practical. Furniture stores are often beautiful but not very inviting. Mixing up pieces from different places, like consignment shops or even Craig’s List can and really make a statement, getting unique things like Dutch Time Pieces can really make an statement in your home, make your home scream “Sit. Stay a while!”

2. Warm colors.

If your landlord allows, paint in muted warm colors. Stay away from bold colors, which will only make the space seem smaller. Use accents or art to add to the color palate, if you don’t know how to paint, always remember that handy.com offers house painting pros.

3. Light it up.

One of the most important factors in making a home cozy is the lighting. Overhead lights can make the space seem like a 7-11 at 2:00am. Using a mixture smaller side table lamps and stand lamps. Bring the lighting down to human level give rooms a sense of scale. Switching “cool” light bulbs for “warm” warms will help a great deal.

4. Make a collection.

Exhibiting your favorite pieces make your space feel like home not only to you but to your guests as well. A piece of street art from your trip to Nantucket or your grandmother’s quilt make great reminders that it’s not just a house but a home because it reminds you of people or things.

Think about creating a space you can see yourself curled up on the couch watching a movie on a Sunday or inviting your couple friends over for a fabulous dinner.