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Here’s How to Make the Most Out of a Small Living Space

Here’s How to Make the Most Out of a Small Living Space

Small living spaces are increasingly popular, whether it’s a minimalist lifestyle choice or an economic necessity. Organizing that space so it doesn’t feel cramped can be a challenge. 

Luckily, there are plenty of organization and decorating hacks available to help enhance any small living space. From creative storage options to clever décor tricks and efficient organizing ideas, there are some great tips to optimize your space, no matter how small.
A great first step to make a small living space feel more spacious is to streamline what you already own. Not only does it free up precious storage space, it’s easier to keep a small area neat and tidy when you have less “stuff”. Start by purging the belongings you no longer need. 

Here are a few ideas: 
  • Give away any books you’ve already read 
  • Trim your music collection 
  • Donate unused kitchen appliances and cookware 
  • Sell or donate outdated clothing and accessories that are in good condition 
  • Throw away old or outdated documents
Now that you’ve sorted out what you really need to keep, you can tackle storing it. These clever storage ideas and products make it easier to create storage space in small living areas:

Open Up Closets

Have you ever thought of replacing your current doors with sliding doors? Removing your swinging door with a sliding one creates more floor space and flow, which helps small living spaces look and feel larger. Look for a sliding barn door to elevate your décor or a mirror sliding door for added functionality.

Install Shelves

Instead of taking up space with bulky bookshelves or entertainment units, install wall shelves. It helps keep your belongings organized without taking up floor space.

Creative Storage Ideas

You can also optimize the storage space you already have by using one or more of these helpful storage organization items: 

These handy units hook over or attach to the back of a door to hang clothing, towels, hats, scarves and more. 

If you’re searching for small closet ideas, try a closet organizer. Ranging in size and style, these pieces take the place of shelves and drawers to keep clothing, accessories and shoes neat and easily accessible.  

Drawer dividers can be used for kitchen storage or bathroom storage to maximize what you can keep in a drawer while ensuring everything stays organized and easy to reach. 

Best used in the kitchen or a bathroom, hooks and racks allow you to store pots, pans, kitchen utensils, towels and more without taking up counter or cupboard space. 

Some bedframes are designed with under-the-bed storage, but units can also be purchased separately. Either way, under-the-bed storage is a great place to keep off-season clothes, shoes and other seldom used items. 

Whether tucked under tables used with shelving units or closets, storage baskets, bins and containers can keep important documents, mementos, books and other miscellaneous items organized and out of the way. 

Storage Furniture 
Benches, ottomans and other storage furniture do double duty by providing both comfortable seating and convenient storage for larger items like linens, blankets and pillows.
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Clear Plastic Expandable Cosmetic Organizer
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Single-Serve Appliances

Small or single-serve appliances allow you to keep the units you rely on without taking up more space than you need. Consider the following single-serve versions of common appliances: 
  • Coffee maker 
  • Blender 
  • Food processor

Countertop Cooking

If you’re limited on oven or stove space, there’s a wide variety of countertop appliances to help you enjoy delicious meals. Here are a few great options that are great for smaller spaces:  
  • Toaster oven 
  • Slow cooker 
  • Pressure cooker 
  • Air fryer 
  • Griddle 
  • Hot plate 
  • Panini grill
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3.5 Cup Mini Food Processor (KFC3516ER) - Empire Red
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Easy-to-Store Furniture

Decorating a small living room or apartment with easy-to-store furniture provides the objects you need without taking up unnecessary space. Here are a few options to get you started: 
  • Folding tables and chairs: Offer extra table and seating space for entertaining and pack up neatly 
  • Nesting tables: Usually available in a set of three or four tables in graduated size that offer more surface space and a chic look in small living rooms 
  • Drop-leaf tables: Create the perfect breakfast nook when the hinged sides are folded down, but can also offer more surface space and seating when needed 
  • Air mattresses and cots: Provide a sleeping area for guests and store away easily  
  • Bed-in-a-box: This innovative product makes it easy to get a mattress into a small living space 
Check with your local Home Furniture for nesting and drop-leaf tables.
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The décor and design you choose can elevate your small living space and make it feel larger. Here’s how:

Choose Light Colours

Painting the walls with Beauti-Tone Paint personalizes your space and makes a great first impression. Lighter hues and tones reflect more light and make a small living space feel brighter and larger. 

You don’t have to stop at the walls either: choose light colours for everything, including drapes, bedding and furniture for a breezy feel.

Find Airy Furniture

For small living rooms, furniture with exposed legs makes a small space look more open. Clear or mesh furniture also gives the appearance of more space by looking airy and unobtrusive.

Increase Your Power Supply

Small spaces might not always come with a lot of outlets but thankfully there’s power bars and extension cords available to help maximize your supply. Great for the living room, bedroom, or anywhere else you need a little extra power, an extension cord or power bar will help make your space more functional.

Maximize Space with Décor

The way you decorate the walls can also have an effect on your small living space: 
  • Mirrors and other reflective surfaces add depth 
  • Maximize vertical space by hanging wall art and plants 
  • Removing doors and dividers provides an open-concept feel and creates sightlines 
  • Use curtains to separate spaces in place of doors for extra flair

Create an Outdoor Space

You can also make a small living space feel larger by making the most of any outdoor area you have. Plus, it gives you another room to enjoy when you start to feel cramped. 

There are many small balcony décor options available to make a tiny patio or balcony feel welcoming and comfortable, including compact bistro sets designed for small spaces. You can also improve a small balcony design by using balcony planters to create a lush green space.
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Small living doesn’t mean living without the things you cherish and enjoy. By working with what you have and using creative storage ideas and decorating tricks, you can easily make any small living space feel comfortable, stylish and neat. 

Shop our storage options, balcony bistro sets, single serve appliances and more for inspiration. With a bit of elbow grease and creativity, any small living space can be optimized and enjoyed for years to come!

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