1. Maximize vertical space
Off-the-floor organization strategies can free up a lot of horizontal space within the home. Hanging storage items allows more storage without increasing the footprint of the house. Utilizing the height of ceilings and walls is also a good idea since it requires less horizontal floor space and more vertical space. Wall-mounted organizers, shelving units, overhead cabinets and attic crawl spaces work well in this regard.
2. Go for sliding doors
Imagine how much more space you could gain simply by making the most of doors. Sliding doors are best used as they take up less room and provide easy access to the room. With no clearance space on each side, the door can be fitted into a compact area or tight corner. Also, they can be used at practically any opening, including doors, cabinets, pantries, or cupboards.
3. Declutter
More often than not, clutter is the result of an overzealous collector. Less stuff means less mess, easier maneuverability, and better efficiency. Consider unused items that are cluttering your space as opportunities for repurposing. It is best to get rid of items that have outlived their usefulness or no longer serve a purpose. Discard or donate anything that you do not need or use. Alternatively, fix broken belongings and put them back into use.
4. Utilize small furniture
Fancy and large pieces of furniture showcase your taste. But using something just a little bit smaller can help you reclaim additional space and save you from “storage woes.” Compact furniture has less mass and is easier to move around. Aside from their flexibility, they can also be more easily stored. Opt for small furniture wherever possible since it will maximize space and is not as bulky.
5. Make the most of corner spaces
It is so easy to overlook a corner in the house. These spaces are rarely used, and most are forgotten - crammed with clutter or just sitting there neglected. But a few simple adjustments can make these corners an asset to your home! Corner spaces offer many possibilities- they can be set up as a corner wardrobe, your personal office space, or designated as your library.
6. Put a room divider into action
Separating the daily living area from a workstation or a play area allows the organizer to create a clear delineation between the zones. Such a layout can be easily achieved by using room dividers. While you can choose to use a physical barrier such as a wall, having a trellis, a screen or bookshelf is preferable as these partitions can be moved. Pots and plants can also be used as room dividers if you want to avoid placing something permanent.
7. Opt for multi-purpose furniture
Transformable furniture is a new trend that has become popular in recent years, mainly because of its versatility. These pieces of furniture and decoration have features such as storage units and adjustable seats so that they can be adjusted to different sizes to accommodate other people and make them comfortable. Beds with under-storage, foldable workstations, and convertible sofas are some examples of simple yet ingenious ways in which folding furniture can be used to maximize and increase available spaces in our homes.
8. Tap into the storage capacity of the stairs
Anything you no longer need or use but do not want to throw away can go into this area. You could also use under-stairs storage as a mini office. When you have guests, they can be stored in the under-stairs drawers to keep off-season clothes and various decorations during the festive seasons. Put your imagination to good use and choose what you want to store here.
9. Leverage outdoor space’s potential
Your backyard could be a great alternative to your living room. Don’t just let it be a dumping ground for unused furniture and toys; instead, transform it into an activity area you can truly enjoy! Also, utilize the space behind your home by turning it into a mini-garden and a place for family gatherings. If you have a balcony, patio, or rooftop deck, think of how an outdoor bar and dinner table could be used to host barbecues and dinner parties.
10. Unlock the alcove’s functionality
In a small home, an alcove is an indispensable addition. It can be used as a storage space, a reading nook, a display shelf for treasures, or decoration. Alcoves also come in handy when you have guests over and need to keep things out of sight yet still accessible. Though you can use an alcove as shoe storage or a place for coats and shoes, the most practical way to maximize the space is to install sliding doors to serve as an extra bedroom.