9 Ways To Maximize Small Space Living

Small space living isn’t always the easiest thing to do, but it’s a fact of life, and the least you can do for yourself is make the most of what you have. Whether it be melding two rooms together to make some extra space, or using unconventional storage methods, there are many many ways to clean up your home, and make it feel like a palace!

1. Create Outdoor Space

Outdoor Porch

Outdoor Porch Source

Instead of adding another room to your small home, consider adding a porch or patio. When covered, they create the perfect haven against the elements, but still let you enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors. Having a well-maintained porch on your house can also up it’s market value, so that’s a good thing to consider if you’re looking to sell your house in the future.

2. Maximize Your Patio Area

Maximize Patio Space

Maximize Patio Space Source

If you live in an apartment or town home, chances are you don’t have a very big outdoor space of your own. If you’re into gardening and spending time outdoors, there’s a whole plethora of ways you can make the most of your space. Use old wood pallets to create a space to hang up your plant pots, and utilize the ceiling space by putting up hooks and installing a little hanging side table. They even sell mini grills that you can mount to a wall or railing, so you can use your patio to it’s full potential.

3. Utilize Your Attic

Attic Storage

Attic Storage Source

Your attic is often not used to it’s full potential, and spending a little bit of extra time cleaning it up and making it usable is worth it. Try building shelves into the slant of the roof (as seen in the picture) and then consolidating all your excess stuff into weatherproof bins to be stored there. Summer toys and holiday decorations won’t have to take up a full closet anymore, and if you keep everything properly organized, it’ll be easy to access in a pinch!

4. Multi-Purpose Furniture

Two In One Furniture

Two In One Furniture Source

Multi-purpose and two-in-one furniture is a great way to free up your small home or apartment, and you can get almost any type your heart desires. From beds with storage space underneath, to tables that collapse into the wall, the possibilities are nearly endless! Make sure to shop wisely, and find something that fits your style.

5. Small Space? Add A Loft

Add A Loft

Add A Loft Source

Have a room with a vaulted ceiling? Consider adding a loft to your home. Lofts can be used in a variety of ways, such as a miniature media room, a playroom if you have younger children, or a guest bedroom if you’re lacking one. It’s an extra room without actually expanding the walls of your home.

6. Breakfast Bars Are A Must

Breakfast Bar

Breakfast Bar Source

If you don’t have much space for a table, or you just like to entertain and want some extra sitting space, consider adding a little breakfast bar on one of the walls in your kitchen. It’s relatively inexpensive, and it’s always fun to spice up a space you see day after day. String café lights and add a plant or two to really pull the whole thing together.

7. Make One Room Do Two Jobs

Two In One Room

Two In One Room Source

 

Mashing together two rooms is sometimes necessary, especially if the rooms in your home are small space areas. Consider putting your washer/dryer in a bathroom closet (as shown in the picture above) or melding your kitchen and living room space together. The possibilities are endless, and sometimes the most unconventional mashups are the ones that work the best!

8. Put In Shelving

Shelves

Shelves Source

Shelves shouldn’t be limited to books. Adding extra shelving to your kitchen can create storage space for your dishes and cutlery.  Especially if you’re lacking in cupboard and pantry.   In the living room it can provide a perfect place for your knick knacks, decoration, photos, and houseplants. Use your imagination, because the possibilities are endless!

9. Pick Furniture That Adapts To You

Small Space Furniture

Small Space Furniture Source

It’s one thing to pick up a piece of furniture that you’re absolutely in love with.  It’s another to find something that works in your small space. Things like rounded end tables, an ottoman that doubles as a coffee table, or a hidden trash can holder.   These double as extra counter space and can really help you utilize every nook and cranny in your home. Consider how something benifits you before you make the purchase, and don’t be afraid to think outside the box.