Let’s face it, we may not be able to afford a mansion, yet we do somehow accumulating a lot of ‘stuff’ over the years. Whether that’s bills and work-related paperwork, children’s toys and books or general sentimental bric-a-brac, finding a place for your belongings can be tricky.
So, to help you on your quest to organised, clutter-free living, here are 5 top tips for making the most of what you have and maximising space in your small home:
1. Utilise Wall Shelving Units
You will be forgiven for thinking wall units are a bad idea when you’re short on space because they only make the room smaller. However, in the case of wall units, making your room smaller is a sacrifice you may want to make. Why? Well, yes you may lose 6 to 10 inches of width from your room, but you’ll gain a huge amount of storage space!
Whether you use it to display books, magazines, records or ornaments it is sure to be a clever storage solution to your living room, dining area or study.
2. Don’t Forget Vertical Space
Wherever you’re sat right now, stop and look upwards. We bet the top foot or more of your walls is bare – are we right? Of course we are; after all, you can’t reach that high can you? But where there is space there is an opportunity.
Gaps between the top of kitchen cabinets or wardrobes and the ceiling are a waste of potential storage space. And when you have a small property, you need to make the most of what you’ve got. If you have the funds, redesign your kitchen so that cabinets run floor to ceiling, or completely fill any recessed walls with shelves or why not even lower the ceiling to provide hidden storage?
For a more affordable, immediate solution invest in plastic storage containers and place them on top of cupboards and wardrobes or pretty storage boxes for underneath sideboards and coffee tables. These are ideal for hiding away rarely used items or clutter.
3. Opt for Mobile Solutions
Cupboards, cabinets, wardrobes – they can all be large, heavy and impossible to move on your own, especially when full of stuff. That’s where mobile solutions come in.
Wheeled shelves are perfect for maximising small pantry or kitchen spaces as they provide added storage without blocking access to other cupboards or walkways. Whereas wheeled storage ottomans are a brilliant addition to any bedroom or living room. Simply place a tray on top and it is transformed into a handy coffee table and foot rest.
4. Make a Statement with Storage
Storage doesn’t have to be boring. Industrial metal shelving and bright coloured levels can make a cool style statement, whereas if you’re a little daring, unusual shaped shelves create a focal point to draw your eye in. We particularly like this zig-zag shelf that utilises the vertical space above the TV.
5. Think Outside the Box
Storage is anything but boring, especially when you use your imagination to think outside the box (that pun was definitely intended!) and utilise traditional items for alternative uses.
If you’re looking to maximise space in your small home, it is unlikely you’ll be able to hide your storage away, so instead why not make a statement with it?
Mechanics’ tool chests and cabinets are perfect for craft materials or stationary, and fit seamlessly with the current, popular industrial home décor style. Whereas louvred panels, usually associated with workshops, are brilliant for storing your kids’ Lego.
[AUTHOR BIO]
If you’re looking for a uk storage and racking expert to help with your clutter woes, they don’t come better than RHP Racking. With over 40 years in the shelving and racking industry, plus a price match guarantee on all its products, it is a storage solution firm you can trust with your money.
(Original Post: http://www.propertyowl.co.uk/5-top-tips-for-maximising-space-in-your-small-home/)