In the heart of Perth’s Rivean Residences, Kelly Donougher of 13 Interiors, a Perth and Melbourne based interior design studio, has designed a luxurious apartment that maximises style and function.  

The key to high-quality apartment interior design is choosing customisable furniture. Here Kelly walks through how she personalised King Living furniture to create a modern fit-out, perfectly balancing elegance with practicality.

The combined living dining space was styled with the Amara Dining Chairs, Delta Sofa, Jasper Cube Ottoman and Crescent Coffee Table. 

Apartment living room style ideas

The centrepiece of any living room, choosing the right sofa is important in any space, and even more so in compact apartments. “We chose the Delta 3-Seater Sofa because it suited the space perfectly, with its compact design, slim arms, and sleek form”. 

When designing the interior of a compact apartment, it's important to select furniture that optimises space. Achieving balance and flow can make a space feel much larger. To ensure unobstructed movement between the alfresco area and dining space Kelly explains “We decided against a chaise-style to maintain flexibility and figured the Jasper Cube Ottoman could be moved to provide additional seating,” she adds. 

Incorporating an ottoman can serving as extra seating, a footrest, or even a coffee table while adding style and functionality without taking up much room. 

The ReoGrand Sofa Bed creates a multifunctional space.

If you’re looking for apartment styling ideas, choosing multifunctional furniture like ottomans, sofa beds and armchairs, is an ideal way to save on space.  

In the dining area, Amara Dining Chairs paired with a custom dining table offered versatility. “The chairs can also double as occasional chairs in the lounge if needed,” Kelly notes. For the guest bedroom, which doubles as an office, the ReoGrand Sofa Bed was an ideal choice. Its minimalist design keeps the room feeling like a functional workspace rather than a bedroom. “There’s nothing more I love than something that’s functional but looks amazing,” she says. 

Functionality is central to Kelly’s design philosophy. “We always consider how our clients will use each piece of furniture, ensuring it meets their style, brief, and budget,” she shares. This approach is evident in her use of flexible and multi-purpose King Living furniture, which seamlessly integrates throughout the space. 

The Quay Outdoor Armchair and Oasis Side Table (left) and Neo Bed (right).

Collaboration with King Trade

For Kelly, the King Trade service is an invaluable asset. “They have a fantastic team of design consultants available to provide assistance when we are working to fulfil a specific brief,” she says. With tools like Space Planner, fabric samples, and in-depth product knowledge, King Trade supports designers and industry professionals in creating tailored solutions for projects across Australia. The team can bring any of your apartment furnishing ideas to life. 

Kelly encourages fellow designers to explore the extensive possibilities offered by King Living. “Through their King Trade program, there are customisation options or configurations available that might not be immediately obvious,” she advises. “It’s not just about what’s shown on the website – there are always additional possibilities to explore.” 

The Heirloom Dining Chair (left) and ReoGrand Sofa Bed (right).

Exploring customisation options

Customisation is a cornerstone of the King Living appeal. Kelly utilised Richmond Natural fabric in the guest room and Prestige Perlino leather for the ottoman and dining chair, creating a cohesive flow between spaces. “The unique style of the Heirloom Dining Chair, with its comfortable and customisable back area, stands out as a personal favourite,” she notes.

The Jasper Sofa and Jasper Occasional Table (left). The Zaza Sofa and Issho Coffee Table (right).

Among her favourite pieces are the Amara Soft Dining Chairs, crafted in Prestige Perlino leather with Onyx timber. “I absolutely love the curved detail in the backrest of the chairs, which provides a nod to the curvature of the ceiling,” she says. The Zaza Sofa and Jasper Sofa also featured prominently, chosen for their flexibility and ability to adapt to wide rooms while maintaining stylish aesthetics. “The Jasper is customisable in seats and seat depths, with options like smart charging systems and storage boxes. It’s perfect for a long, wide room,” she adds. 

Small space inspiration

Kelly’s work at Rivean Residences showcases how thoughtful design and flexible furnishings can transform a compact apartment into a comfortable and fully functional home. With the help of the King Living customisable range and support services, she has created an apartment that embodies both elegance and practicality.

Discover more apartment furnishing ideas: 

• How to choose a small space sofa
• Furniture for small spaces
• Apartment Sofa comparison: Delta vs Fleur vs Neo vs Plaza
• Dining room table ideas for spaces of every size and shape