Rent.Com Feature: 10 Tiny Home Interior Design HacksThat Make Your Space Feel Twice As Big
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Written by Ashley Cotter
You’re scrolling vacation rentals, dreaming up your next getaway, and your feed is filled with light-filled, aesthetic, Instagram-worthy homes. A few in particular catch your eye, but they’re not your typical “sleeps 8” type of house. No, these getaways are less than 500 square feet—possibly even smaller than your first apartment. But with gorgeous kitchens, creative furnishings, prime locations, a happy price point, and the intrinsic appeal of cute small things, you click “book now.” You’re about to experience the magic of good tiny home interior design.
(And the best part? You can bring the inspiration back with you to help maximize space and style in your own home.)
What’s the deal with tiny homes?
The tiny home movement isn’t new, but tiny houses are rising in popularity. While small square footage often appeals to minimalists and environmentally conscious folks, tiny homes and smaller spaces are gaining momentum as an efficient and cost-effective housing solution for those priced out of the market and craving simplicity.
“Living in a tiny house really does mean financial freedom, and letting go of the higher expenses associated with owning a traditional home,” says Sandy, who helps share the stories of alternative living spaces at Tiny Home Tours. “Not only are they cheaper to build than a full-sized house, but utilities, taxes, insurance, and maintenance are remarkably reduced. Going tiny, space is limited, so letting go of stuff is needed.”
But living small doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. A tiny home is the perfect opportunity to get creative with every inch of available space. Whether you are designing your own tiny house to rent in Durango, CO, renting a small apartment in Asheville, NC, or looking at your dream Catskills vacation home in Oneonta, New York, get the inside scoop on tiny home interior design with jaw-dropping living areas, space-maximizing tips, and design mistakes you should definitely look out for.
1. Tiny homes thrive with natural light
We worked with experts in the tiny home and interior design fields to bring you the best tips and hacks for tiny home and small space interior design. One of the most popular hacks we received? “Start by maximizing natural light with large windows, skylights, and light-colored curtains to create a bright and open atmosphere,” recommends the building team at Phoenix Park Model Homes.
“Natural light is a game changer in small spaces,” agrees Karen, Director of Design at luxury tiny home builder BoxHouse. “Prioritize windows, which not only brighten the interior but also create seamless connection with the outdoors, making the space feel much bigger.” Pro Tip from Ivan Kleim, founder of Tiny Home Living: “Large windows always make the space feel bigger,” Kleim says, “it opens the outside and brings it inside.”
2. Opt for light and neutral color palettes
“A warm neutral palette—think beige or soft ivory—is one of our favorite tools for transforming tiny homes into beautiful, light-filled retreats,” shares Corban De La Vega, an expert at room design app DecorMatters. “When paired with strategically placed mirrors, these tones amplify natural light and create the illusion of space. This combination not only maximizes openness but also boosts its aesthetic.”
A well-chosen color palette can transform even the smallest of spaces.
“Light, neutral tones—like whites, greys, and soft pastels—create a sense of openness and reflect natural light beautifully,” says Farai Muzofa, part of the team at the upscale Mint Tiny House Company. “But don’t be afraid to add contrast with bold accent walls or cabinetry. For instance, a navy or deep green island in a light-toned kitchen can anchor the room while adding character.”
Pro Tip from Tiny Home Lady, Lindsay Wood: “Stick with low-satin paint finishes to avoid glare but still enhance light reflection. You also lessen the maintenance from matte paint as tiny home walls are far more touched than larger homes.”
3. Pay attention to lighting design
“To make a tiny home feel truly inviting, we recommend layering lighting,” says Muzofa of Mint Tiny House. “Combine ambient ceiling lights, task lighting under cabinets, and decorative sconces or pendants to create depth and dimension. And don’t forget natural light—large windows or French doors can make even the smallest space feel expansive.”
“Good lighting can drastically change the atmosphere of a space,” seconds the team at nautical vacation getaway Long Cove Resort. “Use layered lighting with a mix of overhead, task, and accent lights to create warmth and ambiance.”
4. Choose materials that create a sense of warmth
The feel and function of your home will depend on the materials you choose, emphasizes tiny home developer Lindsay Wood, otherwise known as the Tiny Home Lady. “What makes a premium tiny home vs a basic tiny home is all about the materials you choose,” she says. According to Wood, these are the materials you should consider to warm up your space:
■ Flooring: Choose sustainable options like hemp wood, engineered wood, or bamboo. Your feet touch it daily, so quality matters.
■ Countertops: Butcher block or quartz surfaces are functional and visually appealing.
■ Walls: Shiplap or smooth drywall in light hues adds character while keeping things spacious
■ Lighting: Most lighting these days has LED bulbs, allowing you to choose the color temperature to match the mood or the project. “This can be customer-specific, but anytime you can add wood elements it warms up the space,” adds Ivan Keim, founder of family-run design and build company, Tiny Home Living. “The majority of our homes have a wood stained ceiling.”
5. Go high in your tiny home
Tiny home interior design isn’t just about the looks, it’s also about how to create a space that feels large in a small area. Focus on high ceilings and windows “One of the most effective ways to make a tiny home feel bigger is by incorporating high ceilings and plenty of natural light,” advises Tiny Camp vacation rental founder Darin Dinsmore. “Designing a small space is about creating an environment that feels expansive, functional, and beautiful. Our units feature floor-to-ceiling windows that open up the interior and bring you closer to nature. Large windows, skylights, and well-placed mirrors enhance this effect, eliminating any sense of confinement.”
“Maximize the perception of height by positioning curtain rods and curtains close to the ceiling,” adds the team at small home builders Tiny Life Homes. Little design tricks like these help a small space feel more expansive.
Use your wall space
Home organization professional Crystal Tharp says that utilizing vertical space is essential in a tiny home. “Install floating shelves or tall cabinets to keep the floor clear, and consider floor-to-ceiling closets with organizers to store clothing, linens, and more, while adding a high shelf near the ceiling for rarely used items,” Tharp recommends. “Utilize hanging or wall-mounted organizers for keys, mail, or kitchen utensils to make every square inch count.”
Raise the bed
Lofts are another key feature in tiny homes, shares Muzofa, “but it’s essential to ensure they don’t feel cramped. By raising the loft height as much as building codes allow and using lighter materials for the structure, the space feels more open while inviting.”
6. Building materials are key for confidence and durability
“Durability and aesthetics go hand in hand when selecting materials for a tiny home,” says Dinsmore. “We prioritize sustainable, high-quality materials such as reclaimed wood, compact quartz countertops, and lightweight yet durable flooring. Materials should be easy to maintain while adding warmth and texture to the space.”
If you’re designing your own tiny home, don’t forget to splurge more on these essentials, says the Tiny Home Lady:
■ Appliances: Quality appliances last longer. Go vented for combo washer/dryers, and use on-demand water heaters for propane-powered tiny homes.
■ Roofing: With less square footage, the best product regardless of cost is a metal roof. It’s durable, efficient, and available at various price points.
■ Windows: Dual-pane windows offer decent insulation (R-value 3–3.7), but in extreme climates, adding quality insulated coverings makes a big difference.
■ Doors: Invest in quality doors and hardware for everyday durability, especially if your tiny home is moveable.
7. Consider what you need most from your tiny home
“Big into cooking? Make sure your home reflects this,” advises Wood. “Love a bathtub? You can have one. Living in a smaller space doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice. What you do need to do is determine what is most important to you.”
Woods says to be sure to have distinct zones for living, sleeping, and dining that help your small space feel cohesive and efficient. So how do you take this from concept to execution?
How to create space for your lifestyle
Laurin Buch, co-founder of Tiny Easy tiny home design software, agrees that it’s crucial to consider the day-to-day activities your home needs to accommodate. “You only have a small footprint available, so each square foot/meter should be used to its fullest potential,” he says. His advice? Before designing your home, track your daily activities for 1 to 4 weeks and create a simple list with two columns:
■ What activities do you do?
■ How much time do you spend on each?
Look for patterns—activities you do often and for long periods deserve dedicated space. Then, design your tiny home based on your lifestyle. For example, Buch and his partner prioritized work, sleep, cooking, relaxing, and bathroom needs in their tiny home design. The final design included:
■ Two desks for work and gaming
■ A sleeping loft with storage
■ A small but functional kitchen with a pull-out table
■ A daybed for relaxing
■ A compact bathroom with essentials
Define your non-negotiables
Kelly Lockwood Padgett, owner and lead designer of design firm and fabrication company Wood and Locks asks, “What can you not live without? Whether it’s natural light, a spacious kitchen, or ample storage, define your top three must-have features. Anything beyond that is a ‘nice-to-have.’ Prioritizing your non-negotiables ensures that the essence of your design story remains intact, while the other elements can be woven in thoughtfully, as space allows.”
8. Use functional furniture and create the illusion of space
“When it comes to tiny homes, it is critical to maximize space, so consider both functionality and comfort,” says Abby Shank, tiny home builder at Live Tiny. “Invest in quality furniture that serves multiple purposes, such as sofa beds or coffee tables with storage. Smart furniture choices can help maximize space and create multifunctional rooms. Remember, it is all about creating a balance between style and practicality in your tiny living space.”
Be strategic and thoughtful with furniture and placement
Lakefront tiny home vacation rental Long Cove Resort advises considering foldable or collapsible furniture, such as a sofa that doubles as a guest bed or a dining table that can be extended for larger gatherings. “You can also create zones within one room by using rugs or furniture placement to delineate different areas for eating, sleeping, or relaxing, allowing the space to serve multiple functions,” says the resort’s design team.
“One of the most exciting aspects of functional design is the element of surprise,” shares Lockwood Padgett. “A seating area, for example, isn’t just for gathering on game night, it can also transform into a bed for your grandchildren, lift to reveal storage for art supplies, and hide cords and clutter in concealed compartments. Integrating these personal features is key to reflecting the uniqueness of a space. When you strike the right balance between beauty and strategy, you can maximize style, tell your unique story, and create a space that makes a big impact.”
Furniture color matters
Finally, don’t forget color when you’re choosing furniture for your space, says the team at Tiny Life Homes. “Select furniture and accent pieces that are lighter in color, particularly in relation to the hues of the interior walls and floors. This choice can create an illusion of greater width within the space,” they reveal.
Pro Tip from Tiny Home Lady: Use built-in furniture to maximize nooks and crannies, such as benches under windows, storage stairs leading to a loft.
9. Pick smart storage solutions
According to professional organizer Crystal Tharp, maximizing space in a tiny home starts with smart, hidden storage solutions.
“Choose ottomans, coffee tables, side tables, and nightstands with built-in storage to tuck away blankets, books, or seasonal items,” she recommends. “Don’t overlook storage that can easily slide under the stairs, holding decorative bins that discreetly store and organize school and office supplies, kitchen tools, accessories, and other small items that are best grouped together. This keeps counters, desktops, and vanities clear, creating a more open and functional space.”
“Make sure everything you own has a purpose and a designated space. That way, when something’s out of place, it’s easy to put it back,” Wood expands. “Clear surfaces and minimal clutter is a large reason why people choose a tiny home. Use organizers, bins, and baskets to keep things tidy.”
Pro Tip from Tiny Home Lady: Store seasonal or less-used items in high or hard-to-reach spaces, like under the bed or in lofts.
10. Blend indoor and outdoor living spaces
Long Cove Resort in Charlotte, NC is an expert at utilizing their beautiful outdoor location to extend living space. “Make the most of your exterior space by incorporating large windows or glass doors that open to outdoor patios or decks. This creates a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor living,” they advise. “Consider weather-resistant furniture and materials that can withstand outdoor elements while still looking stylish.”
TinyCamp, a Sedona-based tiny home vacation rental, also uses outdoor space to make their short-term stays feel large and luxurious. “By ensuring that decks or patios are flush with the interior floor, we instantly extend living areas by several square feet,” their founder reveals. “Covered porches not only provide shade but also serve as a transition space during rain or snow. Our outdoor amenities—including hot tubs, fire pits, saunas, and yoga decks with stunning views of Sedona’s red rocks—help redefine what ‘tiny’ means.”
The finishing touches: design, decor, and expert tips
One of the most exciting parts of any homemaking experience is decorating the space to feel like a reflection of you. Tiny home interior design is no exception.
Use thrifted and vintage pieces.
“I love blending vintage finds with newer pieces. Sticking to a consistent color palette throughout helps create a sense of openness, and it’s a great trick for making the home feel larger. Plus it allows me to easily switch up decor whenever I feel like a change. I also enjoy incorporating vintage wooden boxes, suitcases, and trunks to add charm, character, and additional storage.” —Wendy, who helps share the stories of alternative living spaces at Tiny Home Tours
High-end finishes and creative styling make all the difference
“When it comes to designing a tiny space, think compact, truly. These spaces are designed to be small, but having too much ‘stuff’ will shrink the space. Multi-functional furniture is best, and utilizing every inch of your space is key. Instead of bulky chairs, style an open area with folding chairs that can hang on the wall—like antique bamboo chairs that can be both smart and beautiful.”
“You also need to think sensibly; these are not the structures that require a full refrigerator or double sinks. Wall treatments, built-in banquettes or bookshelves, and decorating vertically can all make an impact on how your tiny space looks and feels. Because fewer items are needed, this could be the perfect opportunity to use higher-end finishes or custom pieces that you’ve always dreamed of.” —Alli Damas at Allison Ramsey Architects
Consider built-ins to accommodate your interests
“One of the most exciting parts of a tiny home is the ability to reflect the owner’s personality. Whether it’s a built-in bookshelf for avid readers, a cozy breakfast nook, or a creative workspace, these personalized touches make the space uniquely yours.” —Muzofa, Mint Tiny Homes
Be intentional about what you bring into your space
“Bring in greenery and carefully chosen decor to add warmth and personality, creating a welcoming environment that feels just like home.” —Phoenix Park Model Homes The fun is in the details “We love going through the design process, from materials and color palette to the final finishing touches. The best part is finding the details that make a house feel like your home—a unique expression of who you are. Tile is one of the easiest ways to add a unique accent and pop of color, like the awesome concrete tiles from Zia Tile.” —Small home living builders Wind RiverBuilt
Bonus: Avoid these tiny home interior design mistakes
Last but not least, here are some things you should not do when it comes to tiny home interior design (and what you should do instead).
Don’t compromise on building materials
“Durability is non-negotiable in a tiny home,” emphasizes Muzofa of Mint Tiny House Company. “Materials like LP Smartside Board and Batten siding, a metal roof with ice shield, and double- paned vinyl windows offer weather resistance and modern curb appeal. Inside, options like butcherblock countertops (easy to clean and durable) or luxury vinyl laminate flooring, which handles wear and tear without sacrificing style.”
Using high-quality wood is also a must for durability, says Tim, creator of tiny home island rentals including bungalow-inspired Tiffany the Tiny Home. “Grade A wood comes from the center of the tree, which makes it incredibly strong. This wood type helps with durability and structural integrity, as it is free from defects like knots, cracks, or warping. The quality enhances the home’s overall stability and longevity, and offers better resistance to environmental factors such as moisture, pests, and temperature changes.”
Not everything needs to be “mini”
“One common mistake in small home design is shrinking essential furniture or features like appliances, beds, bathrooms, or seating,” says the Director of Design at BoxHouse. “A queen- sized bed or a spacious shower can still fit into our homes without compromising comfort—it’s all about the smart layout design.”
Don’t skimp on a second opinion
“Small spaces come with unique challenges, so it’s crucial to have a team of professionals who are not only skilled but also enthusiastic about finding innovative solutions,” advises Lockwood Padgett. “Whether it’s optimizing storage or maximizing functionality, having the right people in place makes all the difference.”
Tiny home interior design is all in the details, but Marie Luciano, interior decorator at Blossoming Interiors, sums up the process perfectly. “Maximizing space in a tiny home is all about smart optimization without sacrificing comfort or style,” Luciano explains. “Invest in multi-functional furniture, utilize vertical solutions like shelves and hooks, and regularly declutter to maintain a minimalist environment. Get creative with storage options and keep your tiny home layout open and airy to enhance the sense of space. Light colors, mirrors, and defined activity zones can further elevate your cozy living experience. Embrace the simplicity of tiny living and transform your home into a stylish sanctuary.”
