5 *Professional Organizer Approved* Tips for NYC Small Space Living
Living in NYC means embracing cozy apartments, creative layouts, and learning how to make every square foot count. Whether you're in a studio or a fifth-floor walk-up with a little extra room, smart storage solutions are key to making your space feel functional and not overwhelming.
Here are 5 tried-and-true tips from us at Shelfie to help you stay stylishly organized no matter how small your space is:
1. Make the Most of Multipurpose Closets
Multipurpose closets are some of our favorite spaces to organize! In NYC, a single closet might need to serve as a coat closet, utility storage, and gift wrap station all in one.
The key is to be intentional. Use bins, clear labels, and vertical storage to separate categories (like winter accessories, travel gear, tool, or wrapping supplies). When everything has a defined zone, it’s easy to grab what you need without making a mess.
2. Create a Home for Transitional Items
There will always be a few things in your home that are just passing through:
A return you need to ship
A gift waiting to be wrapped
Library books
Dry cleaning
Homework
Even if these items are temporary, they still deserve a home! Try a basket near the entryway labeled “outbox” or a tray for mail and paperwork that needs your attention. Giving transitional items a place keeps them from piling up on counters, chairs, the floor or even getting lost.
3. Don’t Skip Entryway Zones
Your entryway sets the tone for the rest of your space and if it's chaotic, that energy carries through the whole home.
Even if you don’t have a formal foyer, carve out a small area near the door with a few essentials:
Hooks for bags and coats
A tray or bowl for keys
A mat or basket for shoes
Creating a designated drop zone helps you leave and return home with less stress and fewer missing keys!
4. Be Mindful of Horizontal Surfaces
Flat surfaces are clutter magnets. Nightstands, coffee tables, countertops. If it’s horizontal, it’s vulnerable. A good rule of thumb? Keep surfaces at least 80% clear. That way, the items you do include (like a lamp, book, or candle) feel intentional and not chaotic. If clutter tends to collect in certain spots, consider adding a small tray or catchall to give those items a defined space.
5. Reset Your Space Every Night
As Tiktok has taught us, think of this as a mini "closing shift" for your home. Taking 5–10 minutes each evening to tidy up can make a huge difference, especially in small spaces where one pile can take over the entire room.
Put away stray clothes, clear off those horizontal surfaces (love ya, number 4!), and reset any zones that got a little wild during the day. This simple ritual keeps your space functioning smoothly and sets you up for a calmer morning.
Need Help Making Small Space Living Feel Big?
If you’re ready to maximize every inch of your NYC home, Shelfie can help. We specialize in smart, stylish organizing solutions tailored to real-life routines, no matter how small the space or how busy your lifestyle. Book a Shelfie Session today.
To see all products in this post go to our ShopMy page!
