Date Published 25 May 2021
How To Make the Most of a Smaller Space
When viewing a new property, you often take a lot from your first impression. It can sometimes be difficult to find a new home that ticks all the boxes: you might want it to be in a great location, to have enough storage space, to have good lighting etc. Realistically, you might have to compromise on some aspects of what you'd like.
Commonly, the aspect that many prospective buyers compromise on is space. Whether the property you've got your eye on has the right amount of bedrooms but they're a little smaller than you'd like, or the new hallway is narrower than you'd anticipated, it doesn't have to be the deciding factor on whether it's the right home for you.
With just a few simple tips, you can ensure you're making the most of the smaller spaces in your home and not feeling the effects so much.
Choose furniture wisely
Although it's clear that you won't be able to fit several big pieces of furniture into a smaller space, that doesn't mean you can't find something that works for you. Multi-use furniture such as day beds (that fold away into sofas) and TV units with storage are great for maximising how much you can fit into a single area and ultimately saves you having to purchase two different items.
If you have smaller nooks and alcoves in the property, it's important to consider the shape of your furniture as well as the size. A circular dining table can really make the most of an awkward space and with chairs that fit neatly underneath, you've instantly saved some precious floor space.
If you have an open-plan living area, it can help to pick furniture that divides the room up into different uses - this will make the space feel multi-functional and can create the illusion of separate rooms entirely. Think corner sofas, which can make a living space feel more homely if split from the dining area, or a breakfast bar in the kitchen to separate the area. Even adding some strategically placed floor plants can add a more natural flow to the room!
Get creative with storage
Following on from choosing your furniture with different uses in mind, this is where you can really get creative with your storage - often a common shortfall of a smaller space.
An ottoman style bed with lots of storage underneath is a fantastic investment and keeps your clutter hidden from view, as does any space you have on top of a wardrobe where you could store bits and bobs within decorative boxes or baskets.
Using the back of your doors as hanging storage can be so useful, including your wardrobe doors which can house smaller items such as shoes or jewellery. You can maximise the space by having hanging accessories with pockets to fill, rather than just one or two traditional clothes hangers.
Think vertically
Rather than choosing furniture all on ground level, consider maximising your wall space. Whether that's shelving at different higher points (particularly for books and ornaments), a wall mounted bathroom cabinet or installing your TV onto a wall, it can make a real difference to how cluttered a smaller space can feel.
To create the illusion of height, adding artwork and pictures at eye level will automatically make your space feel bigger too!
Choose light and reflective materials
A space with lots of natural light can really make a difference to how large it feels, so if you can, make the most of any windows or skylights. Choosing horizontal blinds in pale tones or curtains in lighter fabrics such as linen can also create an airy, natural environment.
If you don't have a great deal of natural light, spotlights and smaller lamps can make a big difference to a space; creating a warm, cosy atmosphere.
For a quick fix, mirrors and reflective surfaces can also help create the illusion of space and can draw the eye upwards. Plus, it can be a really cost-effective way to make the most of your room.
Keep colours neutral
When choosing paint colours or wallpaper options, neutral and muted tones might help your space look both wider and higher. Often, darker shades or wallpaper and tiles with a detailed pattern can make a space feel more enclosed and compact, so it's worth thinking about the design vs. the practicality of any decorative choices.
If you do want to experiment with your decor, a dedicated small space such as a downstairs bathroom or utility room can really carry a more extravagant pattern. If it's used less frequently or behind a closed door, it won't make the space feel more enclosed.
Let Marshall Property help
Whatever your requirements when it comes to finding your next home, Marshall Property can help secure the perfect pad for you.
Simply search our range of available properties online now, or give one of our friendly estate agents a call on 0151 242 0870 to discuss what we can do for you.
