11 perfect gifts for New Yorkers who live in small apartments
It’s no secret that most New York City apartments are cramped, so it’s important to keep that in mind when shopping for the New Yorkers in your life. Here, we’ve rounded up 11 space-friendly ideas fit for Big Apple living.
All of these products have been hand-selected by team 6sqft. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these affiliate links. All prices reflect those at the time of publishing.
Third Love reversible lounge set
This cozy two-piece lounge set is reversible. When storage is limited, what’s better than two outfits in one? Made with high-quality fleece and sweatshirt material, the Cuddle Fleece Reversible top ($60 at Third Love) and bottom ($70 at Third Love) come in taupe and black/gray color options. Wear the fleece-side in for especially chilly winter days, or turn it around for a chic fur look on the outside.
Storage rail
In a small apartment, every inch of space is valuable — including the insides of cabinet doors. This stylish rail made of wood and leather can be mounted to wooden doors for hanging storage. It comes in multiple size and color options and a mounting kit. Prices start at $32.99 on Etsy.
Brooklinen bath towels
Brooklinen’s Ultralight bath towels are compact and fast-drying, making them the perfect option for small bathrooms. New Yorkers may even be able to fit a full set or two of guest towels with these! With four neutral color options, they will match any style of decor. Plus, it’s a local company. A set of two bath towels is available on Brooklinen for $41.65 and for $53.47 with the addition of two hand towels.
Wood and rattan folding chair
If the term “folding chair” conjures up images of rusty metal chairs on a lawn, times have changed. H&M sells these ultra-stylish wood and rattan chairs in three colors that are perfect for New York City dinner parties. They can be stored away neatly when they’re not being used, but New Yorkers will be proud to bring them out for guests when more seating is needed. They are available at H&M for $179 each.
Removable overhead light shade
Give the gift of an easy renter-friendly remedy for harsh overhead lighting. Billed as the “boob light replacement,” Tulip’s fabric shades are designed to give off a warm glow and easily fit over ceiling lights. They come in drum and gem shapes in a variety of sizes and colors, including a printed jungle toile. Prices range from $116 to $149 at Tulip.
Pine storage bench
Minimalists will love the raw pine look of this storage bench, and New Yorkers will love the functionality. Perfect for the end of the bed or a narrow hallway, the bottom can hold shoes, boxes, blankets, and other things while the top serves as seating or a place to put your shoes on in the morning. Keep it as-is or paint it for a custom look. And the best part, perhaps, is it’s only $49.99 at IKEA.
Storage mirror
As a leader in storage and home decor hacks, it should come as no surprise there are two IKEA finds on this list. This stylish oval wall mirror has clever hidden storage in the back as well as hooks underneath. Use it as a vanity mirror in the bathroom for toiletries and face towels or in the hallway for a last-look mirror that also doubles as a coat hook and space to store hats and gloves. It’s $79.99 at IKEA.
Diaper caddy
New York City parents will appreciate a stylish way to store diapers at home since it’s not always possible to hide things in a small nursery. HAPP products feature an attractive herringbone quilting design, and the diaper caddy has an adjustable divider for changing needs. It comes in beige, rose, and blue for $99.
Folding yoga mat
Have a yogi on your shopping list? This lightweight, foldable yoga mat is designed for travel but is also a great mat option for the storage-challenged. It folds up nicely and stays compact with straps. The mat folds out to full size and comes in six colors for $79.
Cloud coasters
The more things can serve a double purpose in a small home, the better. And these unique glass cloud coasters from East Fork double as artwork. Using a technique called glass fusion at an art studio in Florida, these pieces will not only be functional but will add a cool design element to a sleek NYC apartment. The coasters come in sets of two and in two color schemes (Day or Sunset) for $48.
Indian-printed throw pillows
Throw pillows are one of the easiest ways to bring color and style into a small space. When there’s not a ton of room for wall art or sculptural pieces, bringing flair in with things you’d already have in the apartment regardless is a must. These pillow covers from Marigold will elevate even the tiniest living room. They are created using the ancient art of Indian woodblock printing as well as embroidery. Prices range from $50 to $395 per pillow, a decor piece the owner can bring with them from home to home for years to come.
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