13 Genius Small-Space Finds an Interior Designer Handpicked for My Studio Apartment — from $26

Before moving into my studio apartment, I enlisted interior designer Mina Lisanin to help pick out new pieces that would maximize the small space. I was moving uptown for the first time in my six years in New York City and wanted my home to reflect this new era. 

Lisanin delivered with Wayfair furniture and decor that captured what I was looking for. “The design is all about modern organic style with playful, sculptural elements—a mix of Scandinavian minimalism, mid-century charm, and contemporary [influence]," she tells PEOPLE. “Most importantly, the design is practical — with smart storage solutions, space-saving furniture, and renter-friendly upgrades that make a big impact without the commitment.” 

Ahead, you’ll find the 12 interior designer handpicked pieces I’m adding to my new space, starting at just $26.  

Interior Designer-Approved Wayfair Furniture and Decor 

• AllModern Calum Marble Novelty Lamp, $149 (orig. $190) 
• Corrigan Studio Quincella Mirror, $297 
• Joss & Main Console Table, $1,099 (orig. $1,630) 
• Wrought Studio Rothko-Inspired Single Picture Frame Painting, $39–$98 
• Latitude Run Bartolomea Counter Bar Stool, $180 (orig. $475) 
• George Oliver Indars Pedestal Dining Table, $188–$243 
• Mercer41 Ramez Floor Lamp, $100 
• Tov Furniture Boba Green Long Mohair Pillow, $30–$46 (orig. $36–$56) 
• Joss & Main Pru Pedestal End Table, $299 (orig. $376) 
• Birch Lane Banana Leaf Tree, $149 (orig. $192) 
• Bungalow Rose Clata Coffee Table, $560 (orig. $1,400) 
• Mercer41 Mushroom Storage Ottoman, $64 (orig. $115) 
• Ebern Designs 3-Piece Metal Tabletop Candlesticks, $26 (orig. $36) 

Bungalow Rose Clata Coffee Table

I was struggling to find the right coffee table for my apartment given the limited room. However, Lisanin’s 60 percent-off suggestion is just as stylish as it is practical. “The structural base adds a fun, modern touch while the rounded shape keeps the layout feeling open,” she explains. “No sharp corners in a small space equals always a win.” It has a low-profile, which makes it feel less bulky, and still offers ample tabletop capacity for decor.

Mercer41 Mushroom Storage Ottoman

Lisanin describes this ottoman as a “storage pouf that works overtime.” The mushroom shape gives it a modern edge, while the overall design still offers functionality. “Extra seating and hidden storage in one? These are ideal for tucking away blankets, clothes, or anything you want out of sight but within reach,” she says. Plus, they’re nearly 50 percent off right now. 

Corrigan Studio Quincella Mirror

An interior designer’s trick for making any room feel more spacious is “a mirror that reflects light and expands space,” according to Lisanin. “This asymmetrical [design] doesn’t just make a statement — it also bounces light around, making the studio feel bigger and brighter.” The versatile piece can be placed in entryways, living rooms, or over beds. 

Mercer41 Ramez Floor Lamp

While my new apartment has decent natural light during the day, there aren't many overhead fixtures in the space to keep it illuminated past sunset. This Mercer41 floor lamp, which Lisanin says “doubles as decor,” is a great solution. “Lighting is key in any small space,” she adds. “This lamp adds a soft glow while drawing the eye upward — another trick to make ceilings feel taller.” 

Head over to Wayfair to browse more impressive finds or keep scrolling to shop more furniture and home decor hand-picked by an interior designer — up to 60 percent off.

AllModern Calum Marble Novelty Lamp

Wrought Studio Rothko-Inspired Single Picture Frame Painting

Latitude Run Bartolomea Counter Bar Stool

George Oliver Indars Pedestal Dining Table