Actualizing your dream of becoming a homeowner doesn’t always mean you have to live in a huge house. More and more people are opting for smaller homes for various reasons. Smaller homes are often more affordable, easier to maintain, and can be just as cozy and inviting as a larger home.
But just because you’re living in a smaller home doesn’t mean you have to make do with a cramped space. There are plenty of ways to make the most of a small house and create more space. Here are five tips to help you do just that:
Tip #1 Declutter Your Space
Sometimes, you don’t realize how much space you have because there is clutter everywhere you look. This comes from clothes on the floor, dishes in the sink, and knickknacks. If you can’t see your floors or surfaces, it’s time to declutter your home.
Not only will this give the illusion of more space, but it will also help you to relax and feel less overwhelmed. So, get rid of anything you don’t use or need anymore. You could sell or donate these items to earn more or help those in need.
Start by going through your closets and removing clothes you no longer wear. Then, move on to other areas of your home, such as the kitchen, living room, and bathroom. If you have kids, decluttering their rooms can also be a huge space saver since they tend to accumulate a lot of stuff.
Tip #2 Use Vertical Storage
When you’re dealing with a small space, it’s crucial to make use of every inch that you have. This means utilizing vertical storage as much as possible. This can be in the form of shelves, hooks, and even hanging fruit baskets. Get creative and think about what storage solutions work best in your home.
For instance, you can install a closed shelving system in your garage to keep all of your holiday decorations organized and out of the way. Or, you can use hooks to hang coats in your entryway so that they don’t take up valuable space in your closet. The point is that there are endless possibilities when it comes to vertical storage.
Tip #3 Use Multi-Purpose Furniture
One of the best ways to save space in a small home is to use multi-purpose furniture. This means finding pieces that can serve more than one function. For instance, a coffee table that doubles as a storage ottoman is a great way to keep your living room tidy and organized with minimal effort.
Another example is a daybed that can be used as a seating area and a guest bed. You don’t have to worry about finding extra space for overnight guests. Or, if you have children, you can get Murphy beds for their rooms, which you can fold up during the day to create more space.
Of course, you don’t have to go out and buy all new furniture. Just get creative with your pieces and find new ways to use them. You could also repurpose some furniture from flea markets or garage sales. The point is to save money and space by thinking outside the box.
Tip #4 Let in the Light
Another great way to make a small space feel more open and airy is to let in as much natural light as possible. This means opening up the curtains or blinds during the day and keeping them open as long as possible. If you have a patio door, leave that open to let in some fresh air.
Not only will this make your home feel brighter and more spacious, but it will also help to improve your mood and energy levels. Of course, other factors can influence this, but letting in natural light is an excellent place to start. So, if you’re feeling cramped and claustrophobic, let in some light and see how much better you feel.
Tip #5 Use Mirrors
Mirrors are a great way to create the illusion of more space. This is because they reflect light and make a room look bigger than it is. So, hang up some mirrors if you’re looking for a quick and easy way to make your home feel more spacious. This is an excellent hack for small apartments or homes with limited natural light.
You can put them above your sofa, in your entryway, or even in your bathroom. Just make sure they are placed at the right angle to reflect as much light as possible. And if you want to get creative, you can use different shaped mirrors to add visual interest to your space.
Don’t let the lack of space in your house take away from the fact that you’re now a homeowner because that’s an achievement. With these five tips, you can easily create more space in your small home. So, get started today and see how much difference it makes. You might be surprised at how much bigger your house feels!