Small spaces get a bad rap, but honestly? Some of the most memorable homes I've visited have been tiny apartments where every corner was thoughtfully planned. Whether you're dealing with a studio apartment, a narrow entryway that everyone dumps their stuff in, or a closet you're trying to turn into an actual functional space, the secret isn't cramming more stuff in—it's choosing the right stuff.
At HORNE, we've become pretty obsessed with finding furniture that actually works in small spaces. Not the kind that looks good in photos but falls apart when you need it to do double duty. We're talking about pieces from brands like Skagerak by Fritz Hansen and Ferm Living that understand the reality of compact living.
Let's be honest: furnishing a small space is like solving a puzzle where the pieces keep changing. You need that dining table to work for meals, laptop sessions, and craft projects. Finding good dining tables for small spaces that actually do all that without taking over your entire room? Way harder than it should be. Your entryway needs to handle coats, shoes, keys, mail, and probably your neighbor's packages too.
The good news? You don't have to choose between having a functional home and having one that looks good. The furniture we carry focuses on a few key principles that actually make sense:
Low-profile designs are your friend. Furniture that doesn't tower over everything else helps maintain that sense of openness—crucial when you're working with limited square footage.
Multifunctionality isn't just a buzzword; it's a necessity. Storage benches that give you somewhere to sit while putting on shoes and a place to hide winter gear. Wall-mounted shelving that displays your books while keeping floor space clear. Tables that expand when you have guests and shrink back down for everyday use.
And here's something people don't always consider: durability matters even more in small spaces. When you can only fit one dining table, it better be a good one that'll last through moves, lifestyle changes, and daily wear.
Skagerak by Fritz Hansen has this reputation for Scandinavian craftsmanship, but what I really appreciate is how practical their pieces are. Their folding chairs and stackable stools aren't just space-savers—they're actually comfortable and well-made. You can pull them out when needed and tuck them away when you don't, without that awkward dance of where to store bulky furniture.
Ferm Living takes a different approach. They're known for bringing innovation to compact furniture design, creating pieces that feel modern and purposeful. Their wall shelves and slim-profile desks prove that small-space furniture doesn't have to look like it's trying too hard to disappear.
The Skagerak Georg Console Table has become one of those pieces we recommend constantly. It's slim enough for narrow hallways but substantial enough to actually be useful. Perfect for dropping keys, mail, or that plant you keep meaning to water.
I'm particularly fond of the Ferm Living Plant Box. It's one of those designs that works in so many ways—storage for throw blankets in the living room, a home for your growing plant collection, or even bathroom storage for towels and toiletries. The fact that it looks good while being supremely practical? That's the sweet spot. Same goes for their approach to dining tables for small spaces - they've figured out how to make pieces that expand your options instead of limiting them.
The Skagerak Cutter Bench solves one of the biggest small-space challenges: entryway storage. You get seating for putting on shoes, hidden storage for all the stuff that usually ends up on the floor, and clean lines that don't overwhelm the space.
Here's what we've learned from years of helping people furnish compact homes: every square foot really does matter. But that doesn't mean you have to live in a space that feels cramped or compromised.
Our small space collection isn't about finding the tiniest possible furniture—it's about finding pieces that maximize both function and beauty. When you can only have one couch, one dining table, one storage solution, each piece needs to earn its place. That's especially true with dining tables for small spaces - it's probably the most important piece you'll choose since it affects how you eat, work, and socialize every single day.
The brands we work with understand this challenge. They're designing for real people living in real spaces—city apartments, starter homes, downsized living situations. They know that small space furniture needs to be adaptable, durable, and good-looking enough that you won't get tired of seeing it every day.
One thing about small space furniture: you really need to experience it in person. That console table might look perfect online, but does it actually fit in your hallway? Is that bench the right height for your entryway?
We encourage people to visit our showroom and interact with the pieces. Sit on that bench. Open those storage compartments. Fold that chair and see how easy it is to tuck away. Our team can also help you think through the spatial challenges you're dealing with—sometimes an outside perspective helps spot solutions you hadn't considered.
Small spaces aren't about limitations; they're about possibilities. Let us help you discover what yours can become.