Making the Most of Small Spaces
by Donna Gilles 09/03/2017
The quaintness that comes with a small home can be irresistible and there are a lot of benefits to choosing a small home too. Not only do they usually come with a cheaper price tag but they are also cheaper to heat and keep cool as well. Homeowners often feel stumped, however, on how to make the most out of their new homes after move in day.
Below are some tips for making the most of your small space. Whether it's just one room or your whole house, you'll feel like you've found some extra square footage.
Master of illusions - choose curtain rods that are wider than your window frame and install them close to ceilings so that the entire window frame is visible when curtains are open. Curtains should also come two inches above the floor. This set up will allow maximum amount of light to enter the room and make the room appear larger than it is.
Reflect - adding mirrors, glass and see-through furniture provides plenty of opportunity for more light to be reflected throughout the room and create the illusions that there is more space than there is.
Be bold - choose large art pieces instead of opting for a gallery wall. Choosing a large landscape piece will add an "extra window view' while a statement piece adds extra oomph.
In plain sight - in small spaces storage can be an issue. Instead of trying to cram everything away into nooks and crannies consider putting things right out in the open. By arranging things in the open in a thoughtful way, it will look like an intentional statement instead of a cluttered mess. Use hooks and shelves to your advantage.
Make space - get creative and maximize the square footage you have. Placing counters over a washer and dryer and installing slide out drawers in cabinets are two great ways to make the most out of limited space
Color matters - warm and dark colors eat up light and can make your space feel small. Choosing a color palette consisting mostly of neutrals, cool tones, and light colors will ensure your space stays bright and therefore, appears larger.
Spread out - sconces and lamps placed throughout the room evenly spread light around as opposed to a single overhead fixture which creates dark corners.
Quality over quantity - a few large pieces of furniture that fill up the room may seem counterintuitive but it will actually make the room appear larger than it is. Prioritizing important pieces will be key since it will mean less will fit in the room but the effect will be well worth the effort.
Show some leg - furniture with exposed legs allows for visual space under furniture making the room appear less stuffed
It can be overwhelming after move in day to figure out how to prevent your cozy new home from feeling overcrowded with stuff. With these tips in hand you'll be able to create a space that feels spacious and homey, so you can sit back and enjoy your adorable new house!