Homes and gardens spring special: interior design ideas for small spaces - in pictures

This former store room in a Cape Town rectory has been turned into a hard-working studio space, its functions defined by contrasting textures, flooring and finishes. Inset bedroom shelving above the exposed original wall retains character. Extra dining chairs (out of sight) hang from the ceiling. Photograph: www.gapinteriors.com

Cladded sliding doors serve as a feature wall while concealing bathroom and utility space in this 35 sq m studio on the top floor of an Athens apartment building. Pendant feature lighting gives impact and enhances ceiling height in the living space. See also eclisse.co.uk for sliding doors. Photograph: www.gapinteriors.com

The architect owners of this Parisian apartment have maximised the living space by creating a contemporary lit clos on casters; this can be pushed up against a wall of floor-to-ceiling wardrobes when entertaining, or swung round so only the fabric-panelled sides are seen. A curtain acts as a room divider. The slim desk was made from a row of identical bedside tables from Ikea; the bench can be tucked underneath when not in use. Photograph: The Interior Archive

Knocking through into a box room created space off the living room for a double bed, as well as making this New York apartment much lighter. The fitted wardrobe has sliding doors that are mirrored to bounce light back into the room. A simple palette of dove-grey walls and a white floor and ceiling helps unify the two areas. Also: see wallbed.co.uk for beds that fold out of wall panels. Photograph: Winnie Au

Stair treads are put to work with hidden drawers offering vital storage in otherwise dead space. Photograph: Camera Press/Gallo Images/You