1. Utilize Vertical Space
When floor space is at a premium, turn your attention to the walls. Vertical space is often under-utilized in small homes but can be a great asset for storage. Install shelves, hooks, or hanging baskets to keep items off the floor and create a clean, organized look.
For instance, a floating shelf in the kitchen can hold spices and cookbooks, while hooks in the bathroom can hold towels and bathrobes. Remember to keep items that you frequently use within easy reach, and store less commonly used items higher up.
2. Use Multi-Purpose Furniture
Furniture that serves more than one purpose can be a game changer in a small space. Look for items like a storage ottoman that can be used as a coffee table, a footrest, and a storage box. Or consider a sofa bed which can act as seating during the day and a bed at night.
When shopping for multi-purpose furniture, pay attention to the size and scale of the piece to ensure it fits comfortably in your space. Also, look for quality construction to ensure it can hold up to regular use and conversion.
3. Keep Surfaces Clear
Cluttered surfaces can quickly make a small space feel even smaller. Make it a habit to keep your countertops, tables, and other surfaces clear. This not only creates a cleaner, more organized look but also makes your space feel larger.
To keep surfaces clear, provide a designated place for each item. For example, instead of leaving your keys and wallet on the kitchen counter, have a small bowl or hook by the door where you can place them as soon as you walk in.
4. Utilize Under-Bed Storage
The space under your bed can be a valuable storage area in a small home. Use under-bed storage boxes to keep off-season clothing, extra bedding, or other rarely used items out of sight but easily accessible.
To make the most of under-bed storage, choose boxes that are slim enough to slide under your bed easily. Clear boxes can make it easier to see what’s inside, or you could label each box to quickly identify its contents.
5. Consider a Murphy Bed
A Murphy bed, which folds up into the wall when not in use, can be a great space-saving solution. When the bed is up, you have a whole extra room available for other uses, like a home office or a workout area.
While Murphy beds can be more expensive than traditional beds, the extra space they provide can be well worth the cost. Plus, modern Murphy beds are stylish and comfortable, making them a great choice for small spaces.
6. Use Door Space
In small spaces, every inch counts, including the back of your doors. Use over-the-door hooks or racks to hang coats, towels, or cleaning supplies. This keeps items off the floor and makes use of space that would otherwise be wasted.
When using door space, be mindful of the weight you’re adding to ensure the door can still open and close easily. Stick to lighter items to avoid damaging the door or its hinges.
7. Choose Furniture with Built-In Storage
Furniture pieces with built-in storage can be a real lifesaver in a small space. Look for beds with built-in drawers, coffee tables with shelves underneath, or benches with hidden storage compartments.
This type of furniture not only provides extra storage space but also helps reduce clutter by keeping items out of sight. As a bonus, fewer visible belongings can make your space feel larger and more open.
8. Opt for Open Shelving
Open shelving is a popular choice for small spaces because it creates a sense of openness and allows for easy access to items. Use open shelves in your kitchen for dishes and cookware, in your living room for books and decor, or in your bathroom for towels and toiletries.
While open shelving can be a great space saver, it’s important to keep the shelves tidy to prevent a cluttered look. Display only your most attractive items and use baskets or bins for less visually appealing things.
9. Use Mirrors to Create Illusion of Space
Mirrors can make a small space feel larger by reflecting light and creating an optical illusion of depth. Hang a large mirror on a wall, or lean it against the wall for a more casual look.
Besides their space-enhancing properties, mirrors also add a decorative touch to your home. Choose a mirror with an attractive frame that complements your decor, or go for a frameless mirror for a sleek, modern look.
10. Utilize Empty Corners
Empty corners can be turned into valuable storage spaces with corner shelves or corner furniture. This will allow you to utilize every possible space in your room for storage without making the room feel cluttered.
For example, a corner bookshelf can hold books, decor, or small storage baskets. A corner desk can provide a workspace without taking up too much floor space.
11. Keep Items Off the Floor
Keeping items off the floor can make a small room feel more spacious. Use wall-mounted furniture and storage solutions, like floating shelves or wall-mounted desks, to keep the floor clear.
This not only creates a cleaner, more organized look, but also makes the room easier to clean. Additionally, floating furniture gives the illusion of more floor space, making the room feel larger.
12. Use Baskets for Storage
Baskets are a stylish and functional storage solution for small spaces. They can hold a variety of items, from blankets and pillows to toys and magazines, and can be easily moved around as needed.
Baskets come in a variety of sizes, styles, and materials, so you can find the perfect ones to match your decor. Plus, they can be easily tucked away under a table or bed, or placed on a shelf for a decorative touch.
13. Choose Light Colors
Light colors can make a small space feel larger and brighter. Consider painting your walls a light color, and choose furniture and decor in light or neutral tones.
While you can certainly incorporate color into your small space, sticking to a lighter color palette can help open up the room and give the illusion of more space.
14. Use a Room Divider
A room divider can be a great way to create separate areas in a small space. It can be used to separate a living area from a sleeping area, a kitchen from a dining area, or an office from a living room.
Room dividers come in a variety of styles, from folding screens to curtains to bookshelves, so you can find one that fits your decor and needs.
15. Go Vertical with a Loft Bed
A loft bed, which is a bed elevated on supports high enough to allow for space underneath, is a great space-saving solution for small spaces. The space underneath the bed can be used for a desk, a couch, or storage.
While loft beds are often associated with kids’ rooms, they can also be used in adult spaces. Just make sure to choose a loft bed with a sturdy, high-quality frame for safety.
16. Declutter Regularly
Last but definitely not least, regular decluttering is key to maintaining an organized and spacious-feeling home. Get rid of items you no longer need or use regularly, and make sure every item has a designated place.
Remember, in a small space, less is more. By keeping only the items you truly need and love, you’ll create a home that feels larger, more organized, and more comfortable.
