Small Space Solutions: Maximizing Style and Functionality in Compact Homes
There are many benefits to living in a smaller home. Your space feels ultra-cozy, for one. It’s also easier to maintain, so you spend less time cleaning. Powering a smaller home leaves a smaller carbon footprint, which is great for the environment. And thanks to lower utility expenses and property taxes, you also save money. The only downside is that smaller spaces tend to get cluttered more easily. With less storage space, it’s easy for things to pile up. Your home doesn’t have to feel claustrophobic, though. With a few creative solutions, it’s possible to transform your compact home into a stylish, functional space.
Invest in Multipurpose Furniture
One of the best ways to get the most out of a small space is to invest in multipurpose furniture. Think folding tables, pull-down desks, and beds with storage drawers underneath. That way, you can transform your space as and how you need it. Take a pull-out couch, for example. You can relax on it during the day but also use it as a bed at night. Simply convert and pop on a fresh set of bed sheets. Now the room is ready for guests. Multipurpose furniture is often more expensive than furniture with a single use, but in the long run, it’s worth spending the extra money. You’ll have more space for storage and living without needing too many pieces in the room.
Get Creative With Hidden Storage
The more cluttered a space is, the smaller it feels. One of the main culprits is having too many items on view. To avoid this while maximizing your space, get creative with hidden storage solutions. Need some stools, for example? Go for a set of storage ottomans or a vintage piano seat. These have removable lids with space to stash things like remote controls, books, magazines, board games, and throw blankets. Under the bed is also a great spot for hidden storage. You can pack away any extra linen, clothes, or shoes into special storage bags and pop them underneath.
Expand Vertically
If you find yourself running out of floor space in your compact home, don’t be afraid to go up. Put up shelves on your walls to hold books, plants, and photo frames. This will give you extra space and draw the eyes upward, making the room appear larger. Hooks are also useful for hanging up your keys or dog’s leash. You could also mount a coat rack on the wall to hang up your hats and jackets. Corner shelves are another great way to make use of vertical space. You could place one at the front door next to your welcome mat to store shoes. If you have a smaller desk, push it against the wall and hang up an office organizer. Now you have space to store all your stationery and supplies.
Divide It Up
Separating a room into different areas is a great way to bring more functionality into your small space. Room dividers work well for creating the illusion of separate rooms while also adding privacy. They can be used to separate an office into different workspaces, for example, or to create separate sleep spaces in a shared bedroom. Look for dividers that are multifunctional to get the most out of your space. Ones with built-in shelves, for example, can double as a bookshelf or storage space. Curtains also work well since they can easily be added or removed easily to transform your space. Simply attach the rod to the part of the ceiling where you want the curtain to fall.
Stick With Light Colors
Color can look super stylish in a home, but too much of it in a small space and it starts to feel chaotic. If the color is too dark, it can also make the space feel smaller and more cramped. When it comes to small homes, it’s best to stick with a limited palette of light colors. This will make your home appear brighter and feel larger. You can always bring in pops of color through your home decor. Display your flowers in a colorful vase, for example, or stack books with similar cover colors together on the shelves. Adding color in this way also allows you to change up your decor with ease. Simply swap out the vase or book covers for a different shade or pattern.
Create More Depth
Mirrors are a great hack for small spaces as they create the illusion of depth. Even a small mirror can make your space feel larger when hung in the right spot. That’s because mirrors reflect views and light. For added style, choose a mirror with a decorative frame. Playing with lighting is another way to create more depth and expand your sense of space. The brighter the room, the larger it will appear. Ceiling lights and wall sconces are a great choice for small homes, as they free up floor space for furniture and storage. You can also use string lights for extra lighting and ambiance.
From hanging up mirrors to investing in multipurpose furniture, there are plenty of ways to make your small home feel larger. Focus on maximizing the space you do have with functional pieces, and the rest will fall into place. Then, get creative with storage solutions. The more space you have to store things, the less cluttered your home will be. With less clutter, your home will feel more comfortable and appear larger. Now you can enjoy the many benefits of living in a smaller home.