Storage Savvy: 6 Tips for Maximizing Small Spaces

Whether you’re a tiny-home owner with a not-so-tiny set of belongings or a college student packing your possessions into a cramped dorm room, you’ve likely found yourself wishing for extra space at one time or another. Even if you love your little living area, city dwellers and room-sharers alike may long for the room for hosting, storage areas, or an open-concept feel. Luckily, owners of low square footage properties aren’t doomed to live in clutter or rid themselves of unique items. 

In fact, with the help of a few strategic design decisions and some clever organization, you can make the most of your living location. If you’re ready to dream big and expand your living experience, check out these tips for maximizing small spaces.

Invest in an upright freezer

When it comes to maximizing space in a home, minimizing the usage of bulky appliances is a must. If you’re looking to make some room in your kitchen, investing in an upright freezer like this one can clear up your cooking area. Compared to a chest freezer, an upright freezer monopolizes significantly less floor space and leaves room for openness or more kitchen appliances. What’s more, upright freezers tend to offer more storage space and easier access to items.

Use colors to your advantage.

White is the new beige. When attempting to foster an open or spacious atmosphere, avoid painting walls in dark or dim colors, as they tend to make the room feel smaller and more enclosed. Instead, opt for white or light grey paint for walls in smaller spaces. Not only will your home feel roomier, but your furniture and accessories will also stand out. If you find yourself in a multi-functional room or studio apartment, utilize distinct color palettes to declutter and differentiate each area visually.

Get crafty with storage options.

In a small space, cumbersome cabinets or dressers will take up precious floor space and quickly fill the area. Opt for clever storage utilization by purchasing furniture pieces with hidden storage, like a storage-friendly ottoman, mudroom bench, or bed with under-bed storage capacity. Since shelf space may be limited, consider installing floating shelves that can be hung on the wall but do not occupy the surrounding floor area.

Double-up on room purposes

If you’re the proud owner of a low square footage property, it’s unlikely that your home came equipped with multiple extra rooms. Embrace the multi-purpose room concept by setting up the rooms that you do have to serve various functions. By assembling a small desk in your bedroom or workout equipment in the guest room, you can make the most of the space you have without sacrificing the tools you need to engage in in-home exercise, work, entertaining, or recreation.

Cut out the clutter.

The notion that smaller living spaces appear cluttered more quickly is a given. With limited surface and floor room, knick-knacks, decorative pieces, and functional items can visually add up fast. If you live in a bit of a home, strategically decluttering will do wonders for the atmosphere of your house. Do your best only to display what you need or genuinely enjoy, and put the rest in non-visible storage to not make the home appear littered with items. Channel a minimalist mindset and keep most countertops and open spaces as open as can be.

Decorate with attention-grabbing pieces

While your living room may be petite, you and your guests will struggle to focus on the size of the room with a stylish and alluring statement couch or art piece in view. Invest in attractive and visually appealing furniture pieces and accessories that will elevate a space of any size. If your walls need a little TLC, mounting a large mirror will create a reflection and make the room appear larger. Furthermore, a unique and good-looking work of art can transform an empty wall into a beautiful accessory that doesn’t steal any floor space.

Before you get started

While accessorizing and maximizing a small living space can feel overwhelming, those who do their research and patiently put effort into their living area will be rewarded. Soon, you’ll feel like you’re living large, no matter how small your home may be.