I live in a small flat too. Usually, I put my compost in a big plastic bucket with holes underneath, then hang it outside the window. Bring it indoor when it's freezing outside. I also use a relatively big pot, put it beside my other plants on a window shelf. But I only put in normal garden wastes and a small amount of fresh kitchen waste, as the spaces really weren't enough, they already take at least a year to decompose. Not sure if it's doable for you?
Edit: They don't smell if they decompose right.
I'm glad that in the US you got to keep your land no matter what. It's a relief that real community still exists in other parts of the world.