Do you live in a small space? Are you constantly competing for square footage with your partner or kids? Even if you live in a household of one, you may feel hemmed in by belongings that threaten to overwhelm your space — and well-being.
From tiny houses to studios to converted school busses and houseboats, even the smallest dwellings have proven accommodating for some.
Here are 5 tips to help you survive and thrive in your small space.
Give it Up
Do your belongings still spark joy? If you have things that aren’t being used, worn, or otherwise deeply valued or enjoyed, it’s time to say goodbye. Sell, donate, dispose, or give away belongings that no longer serve you.
Get Organized
Expand your existing shelf space using coated wire shelving that gives you a second “story” of storage under sinks, in pantries, and kitchen cupboards. Put mugs on the “ground floor”. Glass tumblers on top.
Elevate pots and pans with a sturdy pot rack to conserve cabinet space and stack small to medium-size lids in an attractive basket. A ceramic planter or metal canister makes a perfect countertop caddy for long-handled utensils — or consider a wire grid with “S” hooks for hanging them up.
Take advantage of shelving for the backs of cabinet and pantry doors. In fact, make all your doors do double-duty with over-the-door hooks and hanging storage, like shoe bags or even an ironing board. Use drawer organizers throughout the house — you can fit more in with a bit of organization.
Divide & Conquer
Make use of bookshelves, folding screens, curtains, loft bed, glass wall, and furniture. These won’t only make your space look bigger, they can also transform your studio apartment into a one-bedroom apartment.
Multipurpose It
Store the kids’ toys or all your winter clothes in beds with built-in drawers. If you can’t afford a new bed, substitute shallow boxes and hide them with a bed skirt. A trunk can store pillows and comforters. Add a cushion, and voilà, it’s a bench seat.
When space is tight, go vertical. Make dual-use of an area by buying or building a loft bed and use the area beneath it for a sofa, table, or desk.
Get the Hang of It
If your dining area is oh-so-tiny, hang your kitchen chairs on pegs when not in use. Use the same concept for things like bikes — or surfboards! Just be sure these are hung properly with adequate support for their weight.
Mirrors and paintings are another way to create more visual space. A well-placed mirror can make a room feel twice as large. Additionally, a large painting with lots of visual depth can create an illusion of space when strategically placed.
Are you ready to shape your small space using these tips? Show us your space transformation by tagging us on social @shapermint.
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